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(Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) LHASA, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Recent monitoring and studies by Chinese scientists reveal that southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region remains one of the regions with the best ecological environment quality in the world, while the implementation of the ecological security barrier construction project in the region has achieved significant benefits. Monitoring and research efforts conducted by scientists show that Xizang has managed to maintain the authenticity of its ecosystems, with a rate of change in ecological pattern of less than one percent, far lower than other regions in China, laying a solid foundation for the construction of the national ecological security barrier, said Wang Xiaodan, a researcher with the Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment (IMHE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Ten monitoring stations have been established in Xizang, namely Xainza, Shannan, Nyingchi, Qamdo, Tingri, Shigatse, Nagqu, Ali, Gerze and Mangkam, providing technical and data support for evaluation of the functioning of the ecological security barrier and assessment of the effectiveness of its construction, according to IMHE. Carbon sequestration, water source conservation, soil conservation and sand fixation in Xizang have been improved, while populations of wild animals and plants have shown positive growth, with the number of Tibetan antelopes increasing from about 70,000 to nearly 300,000, Wang said. An aerial drone photo taken on June 22, 2024 shows the scenery of Serling Tso Lake in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida) Forest coverage in the entire Xizang Autonomous Region stands at 12.31 percent, and the quality of most grasslands has improved, while 66 percent of natural wetlands are effectively protected, according to Wang. The area of desertification in Xizang has decreased by 35,000 hectares compared to 2010, and the occurrence of hazardous sand and dust weather in the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley, a typical observation area, has dropped by a significant two-thirds, according to studies. Xizang is now home to various types of nature reserves covering a total area of 412,300 square kilometers, accounting for more than one-third of the total land area of the region, effectively conserving 217 species of national key protected wild animals and 38 species of national key protected wild plants, studies show. The annual average concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 in major cities in Xizang have decreased by 28.1 percent and 37.5 percent, respectively, compared to 2015, and there has been a significant reduction in sand and dust weather, Wang said. Black-necked cranes are pictured in Xainza County of Nagqu City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, June 9, 2024. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup) The water quality of drinking water sources in Xizang meets the national standards with a compliance rate of 100 percent. The content level of heavy metal elements in most arable soils in Xizang is better than national first-class soil standards, according to the studies. However, scientists also point out that the high-altitude and cold ecological environment in Xizang is extremely fragile, and the construction of the ecological security barrier is a complex and long-term undertaking that requires sustained efforts in order to achieve lasting results. Chinese scientists proposed the construction of the ecological security barrier on the Xizang plateau in 2006, and a long-term plan was approved by the State Council in 2009, with the aim of completing the national ecological security barrier in Xizang by 2030 -- a project lasting more than two decades. Scientists predict that by 2030, after the completion of the ecological security barrier project, Xizang will be able to achieve the overall goals of effective protection, successful governance, stable improvement and ecological security. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro threatened a bloodbath if the loses the presidential election today, July 28. While some take the warning seriously, others believe it is just meant to instill fear and suppress his rival's voters as finally, after quarter of a century of socialist rule, there seems to be hope for change. Maduro's comments were meant as a slap in the face for his opponents, especially to Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia but also Maria Corina Machado, the candidate who had emerged victorious in the primary elections but whom the government disqualified, so she could not continue in the race in the Presidential election. The threat by the Bolivarian leader was also picked up by international media and quickly spread around the world raising alarm. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said he was scared by such a statement. I have told Maduro that the only chance for Venezuela to return to normality is to have a widely respected electoral process," Lula told international news agencies as reported by Reuters. I was scared by Maduro's remarks that Venezuela could face bloodshed if he loses. Maduro needs to learn that when you win, you stay; when you lose, you leave, he said. At this point, there is already a risk of a crisis breaking out tonight if Maduro fails to recognize his rival's victory. Many analysts are anxiously looking at the barracks. When Maduro spoke of a civil war in a working-class neighborhood of Caracas on July 17, he did nothing more than remind the people that the political problem also concerns the Armed Forces. They play an important role as de facto co-government as they control and manage different sectors of the economy, both publicly and at times shrouded in secrecy. Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily Internationals Spanish edition,spokewith a political activist from the opposition, Elio Herrera. The Christian politician and member of the political organization Nueva Vision para mi Pais (NUVIPA) said that those statements from any other opposition candidate, or any other opposition figure, would have been enough to implement the hate speech law and thus deprive anyone who uttered them of their freedom. There we see the imbalance in the application of the law here in the country. Now, I cannot say, one hopes that an event like the one announced by a leader of the ruling party like this will not become reality. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up However, we must know that the people know that this is a peaceful election. We must advocate for peace, to maintain the call that is being made to all sectors to participate in the vote. A call to remain calm, to always maintain sanity, to not fall into provocations. To comply with what the legal regulations say, and to recognize the results that must ultimately be announced, he added. Maduro, however, emphasized that the military structures are increasingly deeply pro-Chavez and will not allow the opposition to reach Miraflores Palace by means of voting. I ask simply to analyze scenarios, what would happen in Venezuela if the oligarchy of the Caracas surnames came to political power by accident? () What would happen with all the social, cultural, political, spiritual, moral and military power that the revolution has? he said, adding later: Could there be new February 27ths? Could there be new February 4ths? Could there be a great April 13th again? The candidate of the Unified Socialist Party (PSUV) referred to the 'Caracazo', as the social uprising against the social-democratic president, Carlos Andres Perez, was known, and the subsequent uprising of Hugo Chavez against that government. You cannot fool all the people all the time Asked if he thought it was a real threat or just an intimidation tactic, Herrera said that if there is a different result than the one expected by the government, it will not be able to announce anything other than the reality of the facts. He believes it is a psychological factor and a factor to intimidate, to remove the incentive for the person who is going to exercise their right to vote. People are not going to vote out of fear, just the opposite. People are emboldened and will go to vote because they understand that it is the opportunity to exercise such an important right. Asked, however, if there is fear, Herrera said, People know how important this historic moment is for the country. And many people, far from being afraid, feel rather brave to go and exercise their right. A right that belongs to all Venezuelans, and that in reality a change is sought. It has been 25 years under the same policy, under the same system of government, and people, well, are tired. Someone said something very true at some point, and that is that you can fool part of the people all the time, or you can fool all the people part of the time. What you cannot do is fool all the people all the time. And I think that is what is happening here. People have woken up. There is a lot of discontent in sectors, even in government sectors. Many public officials with whom we have had the opportunity to talk, from the lowest to the highest levels, are dissatisfied with the way public policies and economic policies have been carried out, and there is a need for a change in the direction and management of all these policies in the country, he added. Among the governments strategies, one was focused on those who emigrated from the country and of whom a minority could vote and support the change promoted by the opposition. Herrera commented that certainly not all those who are abroad will be able to exercise their right to vote. But those who can do so, those who are authorized to vote, well, I think this is the best time to be able to capitalize on that need or desire for change on this coming July 28. And for the compatriots who are in the country, Herrera had words of encouragement. Those of us who are here and have the right to vote here, well, it is also an opportunity. The call is not only for those who are abroad, but also here. Let no one stay at home. Let those people who can go to vote, but who perhaps do not have the means [], let us make ourselves available to be mobilizers that day. Let us take all the people who cannot go by their own means to some electoral center, let them go and exercise their rights, because it is our family, it is so many years of struggle. Herreras wish, which reflects the hope of many people in Venezuela and abroad, is to "make the dream of many mothers and fathers come true, wanting their children to return to the country, to return home. That our brothers and sisters who also have relatives abroad can return. And that we can be with our family again, as it should always have been." The opposition candidate: a retired diplomat who had no political aspirations As many Venezuelans hope for changes, all the attention is now on the chances that the majority opposition candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, will have to become president of the country. The The New York Times earlier reported that Gonzalez Urrutia had emerged as the candidate that the government will not try to block and that the opposition would support. Until recently, Gonzalez, 74, was a retired diplomat with four grandchildren and no political aspirations. He kept himself busy writing academic essays, speaking at conferences and taking his grandchildren to the barbershop and music lessons. Few in his native Venezuela knew his name, the Times noted. Gonzalez Urrutia was already registered as a provisional option in the National Electoral Council (CNE) after neither Maria Corina Machado, winner of the opposition primaries in October, nor Corina Yoris - whom Machado appointed as his substitute - could register. Thus, the retired diplomat became the definitive candidate without receiving any objections. As presidential candidate for the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), the alliance that brings together the main opposition parties and leaders in Venezuela, Gonzalez Urrutia is supported by the parties Un Nuevo Tiempo (UNT) and Mesa de la Unidad Democratica (MUD). He is a career diplomat and international analyst. He was a member of the international editorial board of the newspaper El Nacional and was part of the MUD, the alliance that brought together the most important opposition parties before the formation of the PUD, as president of its board of directors. He was also director of the Coordination and Strategic Planning Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He became ambassador to Algeria during the mandates of Carlos Andres Perez and Ramon Jose Velasquez. Later he served as general director of international policy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was then ambassador to Argentina, appointed by then-president Rafael Caldera, and held the position for the first three years during the government of Hugo Chavez. The election pits him against authoritarian ruler Nicolas Maduro who has seen record levels of poverty and emigration from the country. Gonzalez Urrutia projects himself as a quiet politician who has won strong support despite being the opposition's third choice after its two preferred candidates were barred from running. Diario Cristiano spoke with some Christian leaders to find out what they think and feel about the candidate whose victory could mark the dawn of a great change in Venezuela. Opposition activist Elio Herrera said that for the first time in all these years in the last twenty-five years, we have achieved everything as the opposition. We have been revolving around a united candidacy, something that had not been possible before. [] So, this is a sign of significant progress. It is a single expression, there is a national sentiment that for the first time in all these years has a fairly certain chance of coming to power. Carlos Vielma, a pastor, political activist, and evangelist on the streets of Caracas, has a positive view of the opposition candidate. He said that Maria Corinas disqualification gave way to Edmundo [Gonzalez Urrutia] who, because of his personality and his diplomatic career, has a much less violent discourse. I think that is the discourse that the country needs. If Edmundo wins, he will have to form a transitional government, and a transitional government needs firmness, but with a silk hand. The week leading up to the presidential elections has seen tensions rise, fueled by the possibility that Maduro will not be reelected. Gonzalez Urrutia indicated that the polls give him a wide lead. We are confident of our victory, which could be an overwhelming victory, the main opponent of the Maduro regime reportedly said. The polls project him winning with up to 60% and Maduro receiving only around a tenth of the popular vote. Candidate Edmundo is a character that history and circumstances have placed at this moment in a fundamental and very important role in Venezuela, Herrera commented. That role is that of presidential candidate who has awakened many feelings at a national level where one can gather from the day-to-day conversations in the community, in society, that he is a candidate who has more favor than the current President, he added. As the Venezuelan people prepare to exercise their right to vote, the world watches with expectation and concern, aware that these elections could mark a historic turning point. Gonzalez Urrutia's promise of a firm but peaceful transition resonates like an echo of hope in a nation hungry for stability and progress. Today, many Venezuelans believe, will be the opportunity to write a new chapter in their nations history, one where the voice of the people prevails and where democracy flourishes again on fertile ground. Original reporting by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition. The federal judiciary has a sexual harassment problem. Yet the entire federal judiciary is exempt from Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the antidiscrimination law that protects employees in most other workplaces: More than 30,000 judiciary employees cannot sue their harassers and seek damages for harm to their careers, reputations, and future earning potential. And right now, life-tenured judges are above the laws they interpret and enforce. Fortunately, theres a fix. Earlier this month, former Alaska federal Judge Joshua Kindred resigned in scandal after the 9th Circuit Judicial Council found egregious sexual harassment and appalling abuse occurred in his judicial chambers over a several-year period. Kindred sent hundreds of pages of inappropriate text messages to clerks, talked about his sex life in chambers, and engaged in a sexualized relationship with a clerk. At least one clerk quit rather than endure abuse. In November 2022, 9th Circuit Chief Judge Mary Murguia initiated an investigation based on an employee tip. During the 20-month investigation, Kindred continued to superviseand harassclerks. The judiciary extended no meaningful protection to prevent further abuse or retaliation for participating in the investigation, though the chief judge is empowered to reassign clerks. Clerks tell me these allegations are just the tip of the iceberg: Discrimination, harassment, abusive conduct, and retaliation still occur in courthouses nationwide. Yet most clerks have not and would not report misconduct to the judiciary because they fear retaliation by judges and believe complaints are not usually taken seriously anyway. Advertisement Kindreds resignation is not an example of the system working as it should. Rather, it is yet further evidence the judiciary cannot and should not self-police, given judges inability to impartially judge their colleagues misconduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judges behind-the-scenes treatment of clerks can spill over into their rulings and interactions with litigants: An assessment of Kindreds cases found that he dismissed all sexual harassment claims that came before him. There are no standardized systems to prevent, discipline, or rectify federal judges misconduct. Because the judiciary is exempt from Title VII, clerks who are harassed, terminated, or retaliated against have no legal redress. And the Byzantine reporting processes are stacked against clerks. As of 1995, Title VII applies to judges peers in the executive and legislative branches. Yet the judiciary continues to oppose extending Title VII protections to its employees, asserting separation of powers and claiming they can self-police through formal complaints and Employee Dispute Resolution despite clear evidence to the contrary. Advertisement Some judges believe they have solved these problems because there have been few Kozinski-type incidents in recent years. In fact, this is not even the first instance of publicly reported judicial misconduct this year (and most incidents never become public). Related From Slate Something Funny Is Going On With the Campaign Against Floridas Abortion Initiative Read More This spring, a U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit judge was reprimanded for an overly harsh work environment. Meanwhile, former North Carolina public defender Caryn Devins Strickland is still fighting for justice in her lawsuit against the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit after she was harassed, constructively discharged, and retaliated against. Strickland raised constitutional claims because public defenders, too, are exempt from Title VII. Advertisement Existing processes have not solved these problems. Employee Dispute Resolution, or internal dispute resolution, has been described by clerks and attorneys whove participated as a kangaroo court that lacks even the appearance of impartiality or due process. Its overseen by fellow judges in the courthouse where the complainant law clerk and respondent judge work, creating at least the appearance of, if not an actual, conflict of interest. Advertisement Advertisement There is no substitute for legislative action. Congress should reintroduce and pass the Judiciary Accountability Act and extend federal antidiscrimination protections to 30,000 judiciary employees this year. Importantly, the JAA also protects whistleblowers against retaliation for filing complaints, revises and standardizes EDR Plans among federal circuits, clarifies the judicial complaint process so investigations can continue even after judges step down, and creates multiple confidential reporting channels. The JAA also finally imposes data transparency on the opaque Third Branch, requiring them to annually report to Congress data on both judicial misconduct complaints and diversity in employee hiring. Analyzing the scope of these problemsa lack of accountability, transparency, diversity, and equityis the first step toward crafting effective solutions. Public data reporting on judicial misconduct helps aspiring clerks avoid abusive judges like Kindred. Sadly, there has historically been a lack of transparency around chambers culture and clerkship hiring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The JAA is commonsense, bipartisan legislation. Both Democratic and Republican appointees mistreat clerks; both progressive and conservative clerks are mistreated with limited recourse. If judges harass their clerks, the same laws that apply to their government counterparts should apply to them, too. The judiciary is a co-equal branch, not a superior branch. The judiciary seeks an increasingly large annual budget from Congress, yet they are not required to prove meaningful progress. The inadequate options for mistreated clerks do not work: They are overseen by chief judges who may or may not care about preventing or disciplining fellow judges misconduct. Sadly, the judiciary is buoyed by data evidencing a negligible number of formal complaints annually (typically fewer than 10). These numbers do not suggest harassment is not happening; rather, it is a red flag that reporting systems do not work. Advertisement Some JAA opponents believe these problems are not pervasive. Others know they are, and worry lawsuits against judges might impact the courts daily functioning. Advertisement To avoid lawsuits in the private sector, employers implement front-end measures. Within the federal judiciary, these could include: chief judges modeling better behavior for fellow judges; oversight and routine check-ins by chief judges and directors of workplace relations over judges dealings with clerks; mandatory management, workplace conduct, and EDR training for judges; and swift internal discipline for abusive judges. Judges are loath to blow the whistle on colleagues and have historically taken the position Not my chambers, not my business. Yet unless the judiciary raises the bar on workplace civility generally, abusive judges will tarnish the reputation of the federal courts. Federal judges are uniquely unaccountable, and uniquely shrouded from scrutiny. Congress must seize this opportunity to finally correct an outrageous loophole and achieve justice for judiciary employees. When J.D. Vance was introduced as Donald Trumps vice presidential pick at the Republican National Convention, the most surprising thing, in my estimation, was his wifes shoes. Specifically the fact that they were not heels. As Vanessa Friedman succinctly summed up in her fashion assessment of would-be second lady Usha Vance, she departs dramatically from the overly made-up, hyperfeminine style that tends to be favored by the women of MAGA world. Usha Vance is different in other ways, too: She is the daughter of parents who immigrated to the U.S. from India in the 1980s, she doesnt eat meat (an admission she gave in her RNC speech that reportedly drew gasps from the crowd), and perhaps most importantly, her political views, what was known of them, do not seem particularly MAGA. Since her recent elevation to the national scene, many publications have tried to pick apart what her exact leanings are, and when they might have changed. She most recently worked for a law firm that is known for its commitment to DEI; she told her friends she was outraged by Jan. 6, 2021; and in her youth, those around her seemed to assume she was a left-of-center thinker. Theres a specific kind of cognitive dissonance that comes from watching a woman of color who seemed to have been intellectually reared in progressive circles endear herself to this iteration of the Republican Party, so its no surprise that the main question being asked of Usha Vance has ended up: Is she actually a Republican, or what? The most telling detail in all of the Usha Vance profiles when it comes to determining her politics and, more broadly, her worldview comes from one connection, and the enormous benefits it seems to have already parlayed to the lawyer: Along with her husband, she sought out the iconoclastic professor Amy Chua when they both attended Yale Law School, the New York Times reports. At Yale, Ms. Chua was known for mentoring ambitious students from immigrant backgrounds, it adds as context. Theres much more to the story, though. Advertisement Ive reported on Amy Chuawhose 2011 book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother catapulted her to national fameand her role at Yale Law School, so I feel I have a pretty good understanding of the dynamic the Vances must have encountered from 2010 to 2013 when they were attending the law school. While a chunk of my reporting centered on the misdeeds of her husband, Jed Rubenfeld, who was eventually suspended for two years by Yale Law School for sexually harassing students (an accusation Rubenfeld has always vigorously denied), the dynamic between the two of them, their role at YLS, and their role in helping students access clerkships were undeniably a major part of their own rise to power players at our countrys top law school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For anyone unfamiliar with this particular corner of the legal world: Clerking for a judge is one of the most prestigious things a recent law school graduate can do. Clerkships at lower courts prove to be the tickets to circuit clerkships, which then feed students into the most prestigious clerkships, those at the Supreme Court. Getting a Supreme Court clerkship not only opens professional doors, it also guarantees signing bonuses in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, should the student decide to go to a law firm afterward. They are a really big deal, and Yale Law School has the most robust clerkship program of any school in the country. For several years in the 2010s, Amy Chua was known as one of the faculty members most connected to and invested in helping students get clerkships. And while a lot of this world has a bit of an Ivy League, connections-matter vibe, by all accounts, Chua was also incredibly deliberate in her efforts to build a powerful clerkship network outside of those traditions. As I previously wrote: Advertisement Nearly every student we spoke to for this story noted that Chua has done extraordinary work placing women and minorities in prestigious clerkships that for decades only went to white men. She is widely heralded for going out of her way to be inclusive, organizing dinners at her house for student groups and giving students straight answers to questions about the otherwise opaque clerkship process. This meant that many students, particularly first-year students, approached Chua for advice, even when they didnt have any classes with her. Advertisement Usha and J.D. Vance would be prime candidates for mentorship from Chuaas the Times story notes, Neither of them enjoyed the kind of generational privilege or insider advantage that marked the elite set within that elite school. That mentorship clearly paid offnot only did Chua encourage J.D. Vance to write his bestselling memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, Usha Vance also secured some of those coveted clerkships, first for Brett Kavanaugh when he was still on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and then for Chief Justice John Roberts, at the Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Incredibly Gross Attacks on Kamala Harris Are Starting to Gain Traction Read More It was Chuas boosterism of Kavanaughs ascent to the highest court in the land that prompted a second round of intense scrutiny on herChua wrote an op-ed supporting Kavanaughs nomination and his support for women. This endorsement came before Christine Blasey Fords allegations came out, but she notably never retracted her support. In September 2018, the Guardian further reported that Chua had counseled her students that Kavanaugh liked law clerks with a certain look that she would help them achieve if they so desired, reporting I later confirmed. (In a 2021 email to Slate, Chua wrote, I did stupidly comment that then-Judge Brett Kavanaughs clerks one year were nice lookinga comment I regret and would never say today.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What does any of this history matter when it comes to divining Usha Vances politics? Mostly that the murkiness of her actual beliefs doesnt seem all that confusing or shocking in this context. She comes from a world that prioritizes prestige and power above all elseabove, I think it is possible to argue, political or moral beliefs. As an outsider to this legal world, I found one specific anecdote in the Washington Posts piece on Vance to be illuminating: Vance appeared to poke fun at her own tendencies in a 2012 Facebook post, sharing a link to an article in the online magazine SlateWhat kind of Muppet are you, chaos or order?and writing, I dont think theres any doubt that I am an Order Muppet. Advertisement Dahlia Lithwicks 2012 piece Chaos Theory is a Slate classic. Its not a political argument of any kind. Its the sort of fun and clever cultural observation that could reach a general audience in the pre-MAGA internet without necessarily demanding a certain political type enjoy it. However, it came from a preeminent center-left legal columnist at a center-left news publication, which speaks to Ushas reading habits just a decade ago. The fact that Usha Vance was reading Slate in 2012 and posting about her Order Muppet tendencies shows me that her most defining group is not Republicans or Democrats maybeits law proteges, generally some of the most ambitious people on the planet. Advertisement Advertisement Over the intervening dozen years, with Mitch McConnells machinations to steal a Supreme Court seat from Barack Obama and pack the court with Trump appointees, what it means to be a law protege, and which side of the political sphere has the most power, has shifted undeniably toward the conservative worldview. Which may be why Usha Vance, maybe a liberal, was so eager to clerk for Brett Kavanaugh in 2014 and 2015 (before he became a household name). Sure, hes now an incredibly divisive figure in our current political world, but at the time, he was already a very, very powerful one in the legal world. The way Chuas clerkship placement system operated was to move around law proteges like chess pieces that accrued the most power to the Chua system. This was the milieu that shaped Usha Vances views of governing and power. No wonder shes now able to so easily throw her lot in with Donald Trump, regardless of her personal beliefs. Which is all to sayUsha Vance isnt a mystery. She isnt 2024s version of Melania Trump from 2017, when we all wondered if an immigrant who looked pretty could also hold the toxic views of her husband (spoiler, she can). Usha Vance is ambitious too. That may be why she is willing to put her career on hold while her husband campaigns to be Trumps VP. Because the politics arent what mattersits the power that matters. And second lady is a pretty impressive perch. As Kamala Harris rose to national prominence over the years, lawyer and lifelong LGBT advocate Shannon Minter felt a growing sense of alarm. Not about Harris successbut about what was being said about her by Minters fellow transgender activists and writers. Harriss work has contributed to some of the most violent conditions faced by trans people, wrote ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio in 2019, during Harris presidential primary run. Harris has a concerning record of endangering our communitys most marginalized members, a Them magazine article warned. Absurd, Minter told Slate. Its just wrong. It is wrong. Minter should know. He became famous for facing off against Kenneth Starr in Californias Supreme Court, arguing against Prop 8the ballot initiative that would have banned same-sex marriage in the statein 2009. But he was there in 2006 when Harris, not yet a national figure, drew together a coalition of cops, prosecutors, academics, and activists to talk about how to protect the human rights of trans people in criminal courts. It was historic, recalled Minter. She just genuinely cared about the issue. But the criticism Harris has faced hasnt died. Even now, many transgender activists and writers are skeptical that Harris really has their back. (It didnt help that the Biden administration came out against surgery for trans minors in late June, before reversing course this month.) In a way, the skepticism is understandable for a politician viewed with suspicion by many leftists for her tough-on-crime years as Californias attorney general and her selection as vice president to proud moderate Joe Biden. But her record is clear: Harris has been a strong advocate and progressive for transgender rights for 20 years. And she started this work long before it entered the center of national politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the mid-2000s, trans rights were barely on the radar of most politicians. In 2004, Hillary Clinton was still tepid on marriage equality, pronouncing marriage a sacred bond between a man and a woman from the Senate floor. That same year, Minter sat in a California courtroom as lawyers argued that a teenagers transgender status had justified her killing. Two of the men who murdered 17-year-old Gwen Araujo after realizing she was trans ended up being convicted only of second-degree murder; two others pleaded no contest to lesser charges. Throughout the process, Minter and other trans lawyers tried to reach out to the prosecutors to help them counter the defenses gay panic strategy, he said. I and others tried so hard to work with those prosecutors, and they were not interested in that, he said. It was frustrating. Advertisement As the Araujo case made its way through the courts, another prosecutor, San Franciscos thenDistrict Attorney Kamala Harris, was under attack from the local police. An officer had been killed, and Harris refused to seek the death penalty for his killer. Cop unions were, predictably, furious; one leader accused Harris of being in an ivory tower and having no clue to the reality of the street. Her own political mentor, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, also publicly pressured Harris to back down. Advertisement While Harris stood her ground, she was also following the Araujo case. It wasnt in Harris jurisdiction, and she had no personal stake. But she already had a record of looking out for the LGBTQ+ community: She had performed marriage rites for gay couples right after such ceremonies began in California, started a hate crimes unit dedicated to protecting queer teenagers, and even spoke at her citys third annual Trans March, where she was honored as having championed transgender rights. Advertisement Advertisement So in July of 2006, after Araujos killers had been sentenced, Harris convened a two-day national conference to discuss ways to counter the gay panic defense, drawing together law enforcement personnel, academics, activists, and even the prosecutor and defense lawyers from the Araujo case. Minter was there. He recalls being stunned that Harris went out of her way to address not just gay panic defenses in general but specifically their deployment against trans victims. That was so unexpected and extraordinary and impressive, he said last week, in a phone call from Texas, where he works as legal director of the San Franciscobased National Center for Lesbian Rights. The conference was genuinely focused on how to address these issues and problems, he said. It had no flavor of performativity I just remember thinking at the time, This is the real deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minter says Harris didnt go into detail about why the issue was important to her; later, in her memoir, she wrote only that she found the defense strategy ludicrous. But she told a reporter at the time: Hopefully this conference symbolizes the fact that we take seriously these crimes and our responsibility to protect these victims, and that [the victims] will be treated with dignity because we understand who they are and understand their experience. She added of the gay-panic defense, We cant outlaw it, but we can combat it. Over the course of her career, however, she would indeed help to outlaw the defense: In 2014, as Californias attorney general, she co-sponsored legislation to ban panic defenses in court. The passage of that bill made California the first state to do so, and the language of the bill became a model for other states up to the present day. (Last week, Michigan became the 20th state to pass such a ban.) Advertisement Advertisement Later, as a U.S. senator in 2018, she again co-sponsored legislation that would have banned the defense nationally. (By this time, Republicans were working to make trans rights a wedge issue and held the Senate majority; the bill did not pass.) While its difficult to determine exactly how Harris has influenced the rest of the Biden administration on trans rights, and though there have been grave missteps in the past three and a half years, this White House has made admirable progress on a few fronts: a law to curb trans conversion therapy, a move to gender-neutral passports, restoring protections against discrimination in health care, and more. Harris has, at the very least, been a public face for LGBTQ+ initiatives, doing events like a surprise Pride Month speech at the Stonewall Inn last year. Advertisement Advertisement The pursuit of equal justice for trans people is a sustained throughline in the presumptive nominees career. Yet when Harris launched her first presidential bid, Strangio and other trans critics described her record as mixed at best, dangerous at worst. In part, their criticisms stem simply from the fact that Harris was a part of the carceral state. I will never trust prosecutors whose job it is to send people to cages, Strangio wrote in his critique. Its true that Harris is far from a prison abolitionist. She will be unlikely to satisfy arch-leftists, and, if elected, will surely do things the radicals wouldnt. But that doesnt mean shes motivated by a desire to oppress. I always got the impression with [Harris] that she saw the law as a tool to defend vulnerable people, Minter said. She wanted to use the power of the states criminal law to help people who are preyed upon and harmed. Advertisement Advertisement As a reform-minded prosecutor, Harris has found herself at odds with both law enforcement, as when she defied the police union in San Franciscoand also progressives, as when, in 2016, thenCalifornia Attorney General Harris was instrumental in the effort to take down Backpage.com, a classified-ads website that was widely used by sex workers as a (relatively) safe and straightforward way to find and screen clients. Raking in millions of dollars from the trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable victims is outrageous, despicable and illegal, Harris said then. Backpage and its executives purposefully and unlawfully designed Backpage to be the worlds top online brothel. Advertisement Advertisement This hostility to sex work, too, was a continuing theme in her career. Once in the Senate, she also supported FOSTA/SESTA, a law that has been devastating for other online tools that sex workers use. Advertisement While Harris has more recently stated that she would be in favor of decriminalizing sex work, theres no denying how much her past actions endangered sex workers. And because a disproportionate number of trans people do that work, a public officials policies regarding sex work can be understood as an extension of their policies regarding the LGBTQ+ community, wrote Thems Wren Sanders. Strangio, too, used Harris record on sex work to claim that Harris was no trans ally. More problematic, however, is an incident in 2015, when Harris signed off on her offices appeal of a court order that had directed the state to provide gender-affirmation surgery for a trans inmate named Michelle-Lael Norsworthy. It remains to be seen whether the action will be politically harmful for Harris, who has a reputation for being a champion of LGBT rights, the Washington Blade commented at the time. Advertisement In 2019, confronted by a reporter about the 2015 anti-trans briefs from her office, Harris said the states policy of denying surgery to transgender incarcerated people predated her tenure, and that the brief shed signed didnt reflect her own views on the subject. Advertisement Related From Slate The Coconut Revolution Has Begun Read More There are, unfortunately, situations that occurred where my clients took positions that were contrary to my beliefs, she said. The bottom line is the buck stops with me, and I take full responsibility for what my office did. She further claimed that she worked behind the scenes to change the states policyand indeed, the policy did change later that same year. Harris record on other issues dear to progressives is more murky. After standing against the death penalty as DA, she reversed herself in 2014, when as AG she appealed a U.S. District Court decision that might have shut down executions in the state. And while as the presumptive candidate she recently delivered some harsh words to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, her critics see her as having been complicit in an administration that facilitated an ongoing genocide. Advertisement But on trans issues, her record is surprisingly consistent, especially compared to other politicians. For Trump and the GOP, trans people are at best a convenient culture-war scapegoat, while others in the party seem to genuinely feel disgust for anyone who doesnt conform to their idea of the gender binary. For moderates such as Biden, trans people may be an exotic minority whose interests are niche. But for Harris, her repeated actions across nearly two decades of her career indicate that the humanity and rights of trans people, and the need to protect those rights, are all a firm part of her moral worldviewneither an afterthought nor a fringe interest. Shes not just an allyshes a longtime, steadfast, committed, and well-informed ally, Minter said. She has repeatedly used her position and influence to help build more institutional and public support for our community. She has constantly strived to bring other people along with her and to create more allies for usand that is the best kind of ally to have. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share US Ambassador Gautam A. Rana reiterates his optimism about the future of Slovakia and US-Slovak relations in the interview with The Slovak Spectator. Addressing potential challenges in his diplomatic role, Rana acknowledges public criticisms from some Slovak government officials but maintains that his relationship with key figures, including Prime Minister Robert Fico, remains productive. Im confident, no matter whats happened before, that were [Slovakia and the USA] going to do even greater things in the future, he says. Rana underscores Slovakias ongoing support for Ukraine. The diplomat also reaffirms his stance on the importance of press freedom and democracy, noting that journalists should be able to work without fear of violence or intimidation. During Fourth of July celebrations in Bratislava you made a speech in which you said: I dream of a brighter, better future for the United States and Slovakia, and I invite you to dream with me. The last time we spoke was before parliamentary elections and the formation of the new government. When you get up in the mornings now, do you still feel the same about the future for Slovakia and US-Slovak relations as you did then? My feelings towards the future of Slovakia and the future of Slovak-US relations havent changed at all. There are a couple of parts to this. One is that I think as an outsider, Im not Slovak. Slovakia has made incredible progress over the last 30 years of its independence. If you look at any socioeconomic indicator, where Slovakia was in 1993 and where you are in 2024, you made incredible progress. And Ive seen this. Ive lived in 11 countries around the world. I can see how far you have progressed economically, politically, developmentally. The two great success stories of Slovakias development were joining NATO and the EU. NATO provides you with the security shield, the security that many countries around the world simply dont have. And the EU provides you with economic security. It allows you access to the free market, access to wider education and EU development funds. From a US perspective, youre a NATO ally, youre an EU partner. Our relationship with the current government continues on the issues that weve always worked on, which are security, economic relations, people-to-people ties. And Im confident that what weve accomplished over the last 30 years is only the start. No difficult mornings because of Slovak politics, then? Not at all. We continue to work with this government. My single most important mandate is Ukraine. This is an existential issue, I believe, for not only the European Union and Europe, but also for Slovakia. This is NATOs highest priority right now, helping the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russias unprovoked, full-scale invasion. Your government continues to provide support at the NATO and EU levels. And this remains a very important relationship. On economic issues, well continue to look for opportunities and to work with Slovakia. Im very pleased with the fact that Westinghouse is going to be the supplier for nuclear fuel in the future and help Slovakia end its nuclear dependence on Russia. Previous governments did not criticise America or your embassy, but this government sometimes does. So, isnt your work more challenging than a year ago? As a diplomat, Ive worked all over the world. And, you know, I wont comment on statements made by this government. I would refer you to the members of the government who have made those statements. What I can say is that I continue to have a very productive relationship with members of the Slovak government, including Prime Minister Robert Fico, Defence Minister Robert Kalinak, and Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar, as well as with President Peter Pellegrini. Last December, Premier Fico specifically talked about you in parliament, urging you to stop making statements about Slovakias internal affairs. What did you think when you heard what he said? Ill leave it to the prime minister to comment. I actually have a very good relationship with the prime minister, and with other members of this government. We work cooperatively on a wide range of issues, and well continue working on them. Have you met with Smer MEP Lubos Blaha, who is a vocal critic of the USA and often talks about the US embassy in Bratislava? I havent. You know, I tend to focus on meetings with ministers, particularly in portfolios that are important to the United States. Whatever Slovakia's economic prospects, many people here are living well. Well over half a million euros' worth of SUVs photographed during a 3-minute walk around central Bratislava in late June. (Source: J. T.) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share A few years back, I commented on what seemed to be Slovaks' deeply held conviction that they lived in a poor country. I was reminded of this recently after seeing a second Lamborghini Urus SUV (yours for several hundred thousand euros; a used model is currently on sale for 640,000) parked on the street in Bratislava. In 2016 I flippantly referred to a "few criminals in Porsches". Porsches are now so ubiquitous that criminality cannot, one hopes, account for all of them. Take Samorin a prosperous enough small town, but not exactly Saint-Tropez where, during a recent visit, it was hard to miss a corporate promotion by Porsche: the car park of the local swimming baths was littered with up to a dozen of its latest models. With average gross monthly salaries across Slovakia at only around 1,500, and well under 2,000 even in Bratislava Region, this would seem to require some explaining. Readers who have not recently bought a Porsche there must still be a few of you out there may be interested to learn that the cheapest on-the-road example of its entry-level SUV, the Porsche Macan, starts at just under 75,000. Its bigger brother, the Porsche Cayenne, a four-wheel drive once memorably described by The Economist magazine as "grotesque" but now a common sight on the streets in and around Bratislava, starts at over 100,000. A pimped-out version can easily set you back in excess of 250,000. Even thoroughly unremarkable models from supposedly premium brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Land Rover retail at sums approaching six figures, once extras are included. During a May visit to a dimly-lit shopping centre in Trencin the kind of place where you can still get a plate of kung-pao for 5 in the food court I came across a BMW parked in the concourse, presumably left there by a local car dealer to tempt shoppers. It was one of those half-hearted SUVs that all car manufacturers now seem compelled to make an anorexic monster truck, if you will. Yet even this baby Panzer, the windscreen label announced, would set me back 84,000. Objectively speaking, in-flight coffee is bad. This isnt really news. Now, some more enlightened coffee drinkers (ie: me) have an appreciationif not affinityfor airplane coffee. It signals the start, or the end, of an adventure, and like ginger ale and tomato juice, theres something about flying that makes one crave that particular form of coffee, especially with a nice Biscoff cookie. Maybe its the altitude. While companies like Stumptown Coffee and Alaska Airlines are making significant improvements to their in-flight coffee experience, for the most part, in-flight coffee is objectively bad. For the coffee-obsessed who havent learned to appreciate the depraved beauty of airplane coffee, this can lead to making ones own brew mid-flight. Historically that meant making an AeroPress, which is frowned uponfor obvious reasonsbut recent advances in instant coffee have made such a rigamaroll a thing of the past. Or so one would have thought. But that message didnt seem to make it to one Emirates Airlines passenger, who decided to bring a whole-ass pour-over setup to brew up coffee a mile high. Luckily, he was nice enough to share with his seatmates. As reported by View From the Wing, the entire scene was captured by one Instagram user who happened to be sitting behind the onboard barista. And when I say this passenger had a whole-ass coffee setup, I need you to understand that I mean it. Were talking v60, filters, serving vessel, scale, hand grinder (it appears to be a Comandante), coffee, and a kettle. A kettle. His setup was better than most peoples coffee counter at home. Luckily, after putting on a brewing class for his cabinmates, this coffee-making fellow was nice enough to make some to share with those around him. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montana on Tour (@montana.ontour) Before you get any smart ideas, it should be noted that the Federal Aviation Administration has banned brewing devices mid-flight. This particular Emirates flight appears to be non-US and outside of the FAAs jurisdiction, so perhaps thats why this was allowed to proverbially fly. While Im normally endeared to such coffee nerdery, this is a no-go for me. If you bust out a full pour-over set to make coffee next to me, just be prepared to have big boy problems when turbulence occurs and you accidentally spill scalding hot water on me. The flight will have to make an emergency for one or both of us to be forcefully removed, is all Im saying. At this point, Im again asking you to reconsider your feelings about airline coffee. Like, its not good, but also it kinda is. You wouldnt go visit a kissaten in Japan and judge the experience solely on the flavor of the coffee, would you? For every time and place a coffee and a coffee for every time and place. And for bad coffee, the best place is in an airplane. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/erdogan-says-turkiye-could-enter-israel-to-help-gazans-1119549991.html Erdogan Says Turkiye Could 'Enter' Israel To Help Gazans Erdogan Says Turkiye Could 'Enter' Israel To Help Gazans Sputnik International Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that his country could "enter" Israel to help Palestinians, just like it entered Libya and Karabakh. 2024-07-28T21:30+0000 2024-07-28T21:30+0000 2024-07-28T21:30+0000 world recep tayyip erdogan mahmoud abbas benjamin netanyahu turkiye israel palestinian national authority (pna) congress https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/15/1112755868_0:0:3190:1794_1920x0_80_0_0_695efef1d10657c25c6b924cd5118eb9.jpg Speaking at a meeting of the ruling party branch in the president's native province of Rize, Erdogan noted the success of the country's defense industry, but urged not to be deceived by them. According to the president, if the successes had been even greater, Israel "would not have done to Palestine what it did." Erdogan also once again recalled the refusal of the leader of the Palestinian National Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, to speak in the Turkish parliament. Earlier, the Turkish president urged Abbas to apologize. The Turkish parliament approved the extension of the mandate for the deployment of the Turkish military contingent in Libya for two years from January 2024. Turkiye supported Azerbaijan during the Second Karabakh War in the fall of 2020, and Turkish drones actively participated in the operations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke in the US Congress on Wednesday, sparking protests by anti-war activists at the Capitol. Turkish politicians, including Erdogan, harshly criticized the speech of "war criminal" Netanyahu in the Congress and those senators who gave him a standing ovation. On October 7, 2023, Israel was subjected to an unprecedented rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. After that, fighters of Palestinian movement Hamas penetrated the border areas, opened fire on the military and civilians, and took more than 200 hostages. According to the authorities, about 1,200 people were killed. The Israel Defense Forces launched Operation Iron Swords in the Gaza Strip, which included strikes on civilian targets. Israel announced a complete blockade of the enclave: supplies of water, electricity, fuel, food and medicine were stopped. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli strikes on the enclave since October 7 has exceeded 39,000, with more than 89,800 people injured. The Russian Foreign Ministry called on the parties to cease hostilities. According to Moscow's position, a settlement is only possible on the basis of the UN Security Council-approved formula with the creation of a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with its capital in East Jerusalem. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/netanyahu-urgently-returns-to-israel-to-assess-security-after-golan-heights-attack-1119548490.html turkiye israel 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 will turkey invade israel, will turkiye invade israel, what is turkiye doing to help palestinians https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/hungarys-szijjarto-accuses-poland-of-hypocrisy-since-warsaw-also-buys-russian-oil-1119550293.html Hungary's Szijjarto Accuses Poland of Hypocrisy, Since Warsaw Also Buys Russian Oil Hungary's Szijjarto Accuses Poland of Hypocrisy, Since Warsaw Also Buys Russian Oil Sputnik International Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto responded to criticism from Polish officials for continuing economic ties with Russia, pointing out that they also buy Russian oil through third parties. 2024-07-28T23:01+0000 2024-07-28T23:01+0000 2024-07-28T23:01+0000 world peter szijjarto viktor orban hungary wladyslaw bartoszewski europe poland russia nato european union (eu) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/11/1119396915_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_a5b028980d75107bcf5abaed716291a4.jpg Earlier, Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski said that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban was on the periphery of international society, both in the European Union and in NATO, and advised him to leave the organizations and create an alliance with Russia. The minister added that "there would be nothing wrong with this, because energy supply ultimately has a physical basis, but if this is how it turned out, then there is no need to be hypocritical and no need to blame others." "Wanting to preserve Polish-Hungarian brotherhood, we have long tolerated the provocations and hypocrisy of the current Polish government, but now the glass is full," he noted. Earlier, Szijjarto said that Western Europe had proudly reported on its refusal of Russian oil, but in fact continued to buy it through third countries, for example, India. According to the minister, this proves that the EU's anti-Russian sanctions are working "perfectly". Russia previously stated that the West had made a serious mistake by refusing to buy hydrocarbons from Russia; it would fall into a new, stronger dependence due to higher prices, and those who refused would still buy more expensively through intermediaries and would ultimately buy Russian oil and gas. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240727/russia-adapted-to-sanctions-demonstrating-flexibility-in-various-areas---orban-1119530809.html hungary poland 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 poland buys russian gas, hungary russian relations, russia under sanctions, russian oil sales https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/israel-not-planning-on-waging-full-scale-war-with-lebanon---reports-1119549835.html Israel Not Planning on Waging Full-Scale War With Lebanon - Reports Israel Not Planning on Waging Full-Scale War With Lebanon - Reports Sputnik International Israel is not planning on launching a full-scale against Lebanon following the Golan Heights attack, local media reported citing high-ranking officials. 2024-07-28T21:07+0000 2024-07-28T21:07+0000 2024-07-28T21:07+0000 world benjamin netanyahu yoav gallant golan heights israeli security cabinet hezbollah israel middle east lebanon sputnik https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/1b/1119535539_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_5e5177310b40b46e86461fb436d9518c.jpg According to the Israeli military, 12 young people and children were killed on Saturday in the Golan Heights as a result of shelling from Lebanon. Hezbollah has denied involvement in the attack. On Sunday, the Israeli Security Cabinet has authorized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to decide how and when the Jewish state will respond to the Golan Heights attack allegedly carried out by Lebanons Hezbollah movement, Netanyahus office said.The situation on the Israeli-Lebanese border worsened after the start of Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip in October 2023. The Israeli army and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters exchange fire almost daily in areas along the border. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240727/lebanon-condemns-attacks-on-civilians-in-golan-1119536882.html golan heights israel lebanon 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 will israel attack lebanon, will lebanon and israel go to war, will the war in the middle east expand, is war going to break out in lebanon https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/negotiators-insist-that-netanyahu-soften-position-on-gaza-for-sake-of-truce---reports-1119550136.html Negotiators Insist That Netanyahu Soften Position on Gaza for Sake of Truce - Reports Negotiators Insist That Netanyahu Soften Position on Gaza for Sake of Truce - Reports Sputnik International International negotiators call on Netanyahu to soften his stance on Gaza in order to reach a truce, US Media reported on Sunday. 2024-07-28T21:57+0000 2024-07-28T21:57+0000 2024-07-28T21:57+0000 world israel gaza strip egypt benjamin netanyahu joe biden palestinians hamas newsfeed middle east https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/18/1119490380_0:0:2835:1595_1920x0_80_0_0_738d78684719230bcb636f6348d6450f.jpg On Friday, Egyptian broadcaster Al Qahera News reported, citing a senior source, that Egypt, the United States, Qatar and Israel would hold a meeting in Rome on Sunday on a truce in the Gaza Strip. Israeli officials told the newspaper that Netanyahu was the main reason for "Israels hardened stance at the Rome talks." According to the newspaper, Netanyahu's maneuverability is limited by his right-wing government, in which some officials oppose the truce. According to the sources, Israel wants to maintain military checkpoints along the strategic Gaza highway to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons into Gaza. On Friday, Hamas spokesman in Lebanon Walid Kilani told Sputnik that the movement rejected Israel's new conditions for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which had been put forward by Netanyahu. Earlier on Friday, media reported that the Jewish state was seeking changes to the Gaza truce plan, which would complicate a final deal with Hamas. Israel was reportedly demanding that displaced Palestinians be screened when returning to the northern Gaza Strip after the truce began. Another stumbling block was Israel's demand to retain control over the Gaza border with Egypt. This point did not suit the Egyptian authorities. Israel and Hamas resumed indirect negotiations on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in July, which is conditional on the release of Israeli hostages from Hamas' captivity. The talks were at a standstill for more than a month after US President Joe Biden announced a new plan to resolve the conflict on behalf of Israel. Biden announced on May 31 that israel had proposed a ceasefire deal, but despite Hamas leadership responding favorably a deal was never reached and Netanyahu pledged to continue the war until Hamas was destroyed.Israeli negotiators and mediators have held several rounds of talks in Qatar's Doha and Egypt's Cairo in recent weeks, but no breakthrough has been achieved. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240716/everything-to-sabotage-the-negotiation-israels-smoke-and-mirrors-approach-to-ceasefire-talks-1119385336.html israel gaza strip egypt 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 negotiations in gaza, ceasefire deal in palestine, israel hamas ceasefire, hostage deal in israel After more than six hours of waiting following the closing of the polling stations, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela (CNE) announced the results for Sunday's presidential election. According to the CNE, with 80% of the tables counted, the official leader Nicolas Maduro would have obtained 51.20% of the votes, while the opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez received 44.2%. The results were widely criticized as very unlikely and lacking transparency. The results, therefore, suggest that Maduro has been re-elected for a second six-year term as president of Venezuela and would govern until 2031. In a triumphant speech, Maduro said that the people's will had been fulfilled and, true to his populist style, he started by praising God. My first thought goes to the Father Creator our Father who art in heaven, thank you for giving this victory to the people of Venezuela, Maduro said after the CNE announced the results. In his remarks, Maduro said that the people of Venezuela are a Christian people. We are the people of Christ, and added, I want to thank all the Christians for their prayers, for their blessings, for their love. Immediately after Maduro's speech, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado spoke out, along with opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up Machado said that the results according to the data received by her campaign directly from her prosecutors completely contradicted those issued by the CNE. This has been so overwhelming, so great, that we have won in all the states of the country, said Machado. According to her, opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won the election with 70% of the votes, against 30% for Maduro and, what is more, this would have been the largest margin of victory in any presidential election in Venezuela. Gonzalez, who was widely expected to win, said that "all the rules have been violated here... our message of reconciliation and peaceful change remains valid. Our struggle continues and we will not rest until the will of the people of Venezuela is respected." Media reports highlighted a wide range of irregularities, most importantly that key voting stations refused to release paper tallies that could be used to verify the digital results. Maduro also caused alarm in the lead up to Sunday's election when he threatened a bloodbath if the loses, as Christian Daily International reported earlier. Various heads of state and other figures from the American continent reacted to what happened in Venezuela on Sunday night. Political leaders from both the right and the left agreed on the need for transparency in the election results. Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a leftist, posted a message on his social network X doubting the results issued by the CNE. The Maduro regime must understand that the results it publishes are difficult to believe. The international community and above all the Venezuelan people demand total transparency of the minutes and the process and that international observers not compromised with the government account for the veracity of the results, Boric said. The Chilean president also added that for the time being, his government will not acknowledge Maduro's victory, saying, from Chile, we will not recognize any result that is not verifiable. From Uruguay, right-wing President Luis Lacalle Pou, used even stronger terms commenting, "Not like that! It was an open secret. They were going to 'win' regardless of the real results. The process up to the day of the election and the counting of votes was clearly flawed. You cannot recognize a victory if you do not trust the way and the mechanisms used to achieve it." Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo said, "Venezuela deserves transparent, accurate results that are in line with the will of its people. We received the results announced by the CNE with many doubts. Therefore, the reports from the electoral observation missions are essential, which today more than ever, must defend the vote of the Venezuelans." In the United States, government officials and political leaders also expressed their doubts and called on Venezuelan authorities to publish the voting records. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is currently in Japan for an official visit, expressed "serious concerns that the announced result does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people." Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz said, "The Maduro regime and every one of its thugs should know that the world, and in particular the United States, is watching tonight and will keep them in custody." Similarly, Republican Senator for the State of Florida, Marco Rubio, said: "After announcing complete fraud in the election, expect the Maduro regime to now shut down the Internet inside Venezuela to make it difficult for those inside to communicate with each other and the world." Originally reported by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/cuba-welcomes-russian-baltic-fleet-warships-1119552974.html Cuba Welcomes Russian Baltic Fleet Warships Cuba Welcomes Russian Baltic Fleet Warships Sputnik International A group of Russias Northern Fleet warships, including the Admiral Gorshkov frigate and the Kazan nuclear-powered submarine, has made a courtesy visit to Cuban capital of Havana. 2024-07-29T12:31+0000 2024-07-29T12:31+0000 2024-07-29T12:31+0000 multimedia photo russia cuba russian navy baltic fleet neustrashimy havana https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/1d/1119553884_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_4d543afaa31d0a7181db2f85eba66de9.jpg Warships of Russias formidable Baltic Fleet entered the port of Havana Saturday as a sign of the stalwart alliance between Russia and Cuba. The Smolny vessel was the first to enter the port, accompanied by the Neustrashimy (lit. Fearless) frigate and the Yelnya vessel.Follow Sputniks photo gallery to see how Russian ships were greeted by the Cubans! russia cuba havana 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 navy, baltic fleet, cuba russia, cuba baltic fleet, cuba neustrashimy, cuba russian ships https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/el-salvador-may-apply-to-join-brics-in-1-2-years---russian-diplomat-1119551004.html El Salvador May Apply to Join BRICS in 1-2 Years - Russian Diplomat El Salvador May Apply to Join BRICS in 1-2 Years - Russian Diplomat Sputnik International El Salvador is studying the possibility of joining BRICS the head of the Russian Embassy office in El Salvador said in an interview. 2024-07-29T03:15+0000 2024-07-29T03:15+0000 2024-07-29T03:15+0000 world russian embassy el salvador russia brics eurasian economic union https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/07/1118849168_0:173:3030:1877_1920x0_80_0_0_0cf36ff8ca02c86b10b70209db2f0a73.jpg "Definitely. They are very interested. BRICS is very attractive to them, they are studying the possibility of joining it. It is possible that in the next year or two, El Salvador may ask to be admitted to BRICS," Ilyukhin told Russian newspaper Izvestia when asked whether El Salvador had expressed interest in cooperating with Russia through BRICS. According to the diplomat, El Salvador is interested in developing relations not only with Russia, but also with China and India, and sees this as "an opportunity to strengthen its economy, to give it an impetus for development." El Salvador is interested in attracting foreign investment, primarily from the BRICS countries, he added. The diplomat added that El Salvador was also interested in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), but it was not ready to join it now, although considering this possibility. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/malaysia-sends-letter-of-application-to-join-brics-to-russia---prime-minister-1119547156.html el salvador 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 new members to brics, what countries are considering brics, el salvador and brics, brics in latin america https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/israeli-foreign-minister-compares-erdogan-to-hussein-commenting-on-readiness-to-enter-1119550549.html Israeli Foreign Minister Compares Erdogan to Hussein, Commenting on Readiness to 'Enter' Israel Israeli Foreign Minister Compares Erdogan to Hussein, Commenting on Readiness to 'Enter' Israel Sputnik International After Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Turkiye may "enter" Israel to help the Palestinians, Israeli Foreign Minister took to social media to compare him to slain Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. 2024-07-29T01:05+0000 2024-07-29T01:05+0000 2024-07-29T01:32+0000 world middle east saddam hussein recep tayyip erdogan israel katz israel iraq libya turkiye israel-gaza conflict https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107829/96/1078299625_0:41:2633:1522_1920x0_80_0_0_0079b7c37e026b590c4e694154a5d33d.jpg Earlier, Erdogan said that Turkiye could "enter" Israel in the same way as it once did in Libya and Karabakh. "Erdogan follows in the footsteps of Saddam Hussein and threatens to attack Israel. Just let him remember what happened there and how it ended," Katz said on X, posting photos of Erdogan and Hussein. On March 20, 2003, under the pretext of fighting terrorism and searching for weapons of mass destruction, the US-led international coalition began massive bombing of Iraqi cities. As a result, the country's president Saddam Hussein was overthrown, and no traces of weapons of mass destruction banned by the international convention were ever found. Saddam Hussein's government fell on April 17, 2003, and the Iraqi leader himself was forced to hide. In December 2003, Hussein was found by the US military near his hometown of Tikrit in an underground shelter, and on June 30, 2004, he was handed over to the Iraqi authorities along with 11 members of the Baathist regime. On November 5, 2005, the Iraqi Supreme Tribunal found the former leader of Iraq guilty of crimes against the Iraqi people, and he was executed on December 30, 2006. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240728/erdogan-says-turkiye-could-enter-israel-to-help-gazans-1119549991.html israel iraq libya turkiye 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 erdogan stance on israel, turkiye to help the palestinians, israel gaza https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/maduro-wins-venezuelan-presidential-election---electoral-council-1119551150.html Maduro Wins Venezuelan Presidential Election - Electoral Council Maduro Wins Venezuelan Presidential Election - Electoral Council Sputnik International With 80% of protocols processed, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has received 51.2% of the votes and won the presidential election, Elvis Amoroso, the chairman of the National Electoral Council of Venezuela, said on Monday. 2024-07-29T04:48+0000 2024-07-29T04:48+0000 2024-07-29T04:48+0000 americas latin america venezuela nicolas maduro great patriotic pole (gpp) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/0a/11/1114259051_0:0:2872:1617_1920x0_80_0_0_1d30159dc132cd9908a91c1bad03d6e9.jpg For Maduro, the upcoming presidential term will be the third in a row; he has headed the Bolivarian Republic since 2013. The inauguration of the head of the executive power of Venezuela will take place on January 10, 2025, and his term of office will be six years."With 80% of the data received, we issued the first ballot, which shows a strong and irreversible trend. With a participation rate of 59%, the results are as follows. First, Nicolas Maduro Moros from the Great Patriotic Pole received 5,150,092 votes with 51.20%. Candidate Edmundo Gonzalez from the Unity Council received 4,445,978 votes with 44.2%," Amoroso told journalists and observers. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230421/lavrovs-latin-american-tour-challenging-us-hegemony-in-americas-backyard-1109746520.html americas venezuela 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 latin america, maduro victory, maduro wins elections, venezuela elections results, nicolas maduro victory, maduro great patriotic pole https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/putin-congratulates-maduro-on-reelection-as-president-of-venezuela---kremlin-1119556732.html Putin Congratulates Maduro on Reelection as President of Venezuela - Kremlin Putin Congratulates Maduro on Reelection as President of Venezuela - Kremlin Sputnik International Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated on Monday Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on his reelection, the Kremlin said. Maduro will begin his third term in office on January 10, 2025. 2024-07-29T20:15+0000 2024-07-29T20:15+0000 2024-07-29T20:15+0000 world russia venezuela nicolas maduro vladimir putin presidential election https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102657/42/1026574290_0:192:2735:1730_1920x0_80_0_0_2bc41b9709b4633bc5f905f360e121dd.jpg Earlier in the day, Venezuela's National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner after the 61-year-old secured 51.2% of the vote, with 80% of the ballots counted. His man rival, Edmundo Gonzalez, reportedlu gained 44.2%. Maduro will begin his third term in office on January 10, 2025.Relations between Russia and Venezuela are of a strategic partnership nature, the president said. Later in the day, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, on behalf of Maduro, thanked Putin for his congratulations on the reelection.On Monday, Colombia and Spain called for an independent recount and verification of votes after the election. Argentine President Javier Milei said even before the official results came out that he would not recognize them. Chile also said that it would not recognize Maduro's victory. Peruvian and Costa Rican authorities too refrained from recognizing the results. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/maduro-wins-venezuelan-presidential-election---electoral-council-1119551150.html russia venezuela 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 president vladimir putin, putin congratulated nicolas maduro, nicolas maduro reelection https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/sukhoi-aircraft-keeping-russias-skies-safe-for-85-years-and-counting-1119541660.html Sukhoi Aircraft: Keeping Russias Skies Safe For 85 Years and Counting Sukhoi Aircraft: Keeping Russias Skies Safe For 85 Years and Counting Sputnik International Monday marks the 85th anniversary of the creation of the Sukhoi Design Bureau. In honor of the occasion, check out some of the most noteworthy examples of the legendary aircraft maker's planes. 2024-07-29T12:15+0000 2024-07-29T12:15+0000 2024-07-29T12:15+0000 military military & intelligence karen kwiatkowski russia ussr sukhoi sukhoi design bureau su-17 su-35 su-57 https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/19193/89/191938945_0:113:3241:1936_1920x0_80_0_0_b299d4d3ef4a4b9dd4b610347af066c1.jpg On July 29, 1939, on the eve of the Second World War, aircraft designer Pavel Sukhoi was appointed chief designer of his own independent design bureau.Born in 1895 in the village of Glubokoye in what is now Vitebsk region in modern-day Belarus, Sukhoi rapidly made a name for himself as one of the brightest up-and-coming aircraft designers in the USSR in the 1920s and 1930s, participating in the creation of over half-a-dozen fighters, bombers, and experimental aircraft alongside other giants of Soviet aircraft design, including Andrei Tupolev and Nikolai Polikarpov.In the 85 years since its formation, the Sukhoi Design Bureau has created nearly two dozen of the USSR and Russias best-known reconnaissance, ground attack, interceptor, air superiority and multirole fighter aircraft. Sputnik has picked seven notable examples.Su-2: Co-designed by Pavel Sukhoi and Andrei Tupolev, this training, reconnaissance and light bomber was the first Sukhoi aircraft ever produced. Over 900 Su-2s were delivered to the military between 1939 and 1942. Along with six ShKAS machine guns and RS-82 series unguided rockets, these aircraft could carry up to 600 kg worth of bombs.Su-17: Sukhoi entered the supersonic age with the Su-7 and Su-9 series of ground attack and interceptor fighter aircraft in the late 1950s, but truly perfected the technology in 1970 with its Su-17 variable-sweep-wing fighter-bomber. With over 2,860 Su-17 variants built, the aircraft became the most-mass produced jet in the design bureaus history.Featuring a top speed up to 1,400 km/h, a 1,150 km combat range, and 12 hard points for up to 4 tons of munitions, Su-17s were exported to over a dozen countries around the world during the Cold War, from Syria, Libya and the Yemens to Vietnam, Angola, Poland and Peru.Su-25: Developed by Sukhoi in the 1970s as a rugged, maneuverable subsonic ground attack aircraft for close air support missions, the Su-25 turned out to be one of the most versatile and enduring aircraft in Sukhoi's lineup (as evidenced by an extremely low retirement rate). The one seater jet has a 975 km per hour top speed, a 750 km combat range, and 11 hard points for up to 4.4 tons of munitions, from rockets and air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles to FAB (high explosive), KAB (guided), BetAB (concrete-breaking) and ZAB (incendiary) series bombs. The aircraft has seen widespread combat use, and has been exported to a multitude of countries around the world.Iran found itself the surprise owner of seven Su-25s in January 1991, when Iraqi Air Force pilots pilots flew their aircraft to the Islamic Republic to escape the US-led coalition during Operation Desert Storm. Iran purchased an additional six Su-25s from Russia in the mid-2000s, using a pair of them to ward off a US MQ-1 Predator drone that flew into Iranian airspace in 2012. Iran transferred its Su-25s to Iraq in 2014 to assist Baghdad in its fight against ISIS.*Su-27: Introduced in 1985, the Su-27 was created as a response to what was then the latest in US fourth generation jet fighter technology, but wound up becoming the father of some of the most modern Russian, Indian and Chinese warplanes in service today, including the Su-30MKI, the Su-35 and Shenyang J-11. From air superiority to escorts to bombing, these twin-engine supermaneuverable jets have proven capable of any mission Russia's Aerospace Forces have thrown at them.Su-34: This all-weather fighter-bomber was the result of the Soviet (and later Russian) military's need for a new generation of frontline supersonic strike aircraft capable of missions in operational and tactical depth at standoff ranges. Conceived in the mid-1980s and flown for the first time in April 1990, the Su-34 suffered a difficult development history which nearly ended in catastrophe due to the economic and political crisis of the 1990s. Development slowed to a crawl, but the aircraft survived, with limited series production beginning in 2006, and the unique, duck-nose fighter-bomber formally adopted into service in 2014.It wouldn't take long for the aircraft to be tasked with combat operations, with six Su-34 deployed on rotation to Syria starting in 2015 to assist in Damascus's war against a collection of foreign-sponsored jihadists and so-called 'moderate' rebels. The jets have also been used extensively in the ongoing Russia-NATO proxy war in Ukraine, flying tens of thousands of sorties with their complements of Kh-36 and Kh-65 cruise missiles, and the super-heavy KAB and upgraded FAB guided and glide bombs which have proven instrumental in smashing through Ukraine's heavily fortified defenses in the Donbass this past spring.Su-47: Definitely the most unique aircraft in this list is the Su-47 - an experimental forward-swept wing jet design developed by Sukhoi after being tasked with the creation of a new carrier-based fighter with radical super-maneuverability characteristics, the ability to maintain supersonic speed in cruising mode, be capable of engaging in all-angle fire on enemy air targets, and be invisible to radar. Design was carried out in close coordination with Moscow's Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute beginning, and by 1988 the production of a full-scale technology demonstrator was authorized by the military.The aircraft achieved incredible maneuverability characteristics at subsonic speeds, perfect for dogfights and evading enemy missiles. The projected g-force acting on the plane's pilots were calculated to be so high that the cockpit was installed with a 30 degree backrest angle (instead of the usual 13-15 degrees) to reduce the strain.To give an idea of the jet's power, it's worth mentioning that it was fitted with a variant of the tried and tested DF-30 engine, the same one used in the Mikoyan MiG-31 interceptor/strike aircraft, the Ilyushin Il-76 strategic airlifter and Tupolev's Tu-134 and Tu-154 series passenger liners. The jet could accelerate to speeds up to 2,500 km per hour, and had a subsonic combat radius of 2,000 km (800 km in supersonic mode).The Su-47 made its first flight in September 1997. Incredible footage is available online showing the aircraft in flight at airshows in 1999 and 2001.The Su-47 project was closed in the 2000s, but its development by lead designer Mikhail Pogosyan and his team was not in vain, as a number of technologies and engineering decisions that would end up being used in the Su-57 were first developed for and tested by the Su-47.Su-57: Created in the 2000s and 2010s and first introduced into service in small numbers in 2020, the Su-57 became Russias first multi-role fifth-generation stealth jet fighter. Capable of accelerating to speeds up to nearly 2500 km\h and featuring a range up to 4,500 km with 2 outboard fuel tanks (or 3,500 km without), these heavy jets are fitted with Russias latest avionics, radar, targeting and electronic countermeasures systems.Su-57s have 12 hard points (6 internal, 6 external) and can carry all of Russias new air-to-air, air-to-surface, anti-ship, and anti-radiation missiles, and heavy guided glide bombs. About two dozen series Su-57s have been produced to date, with 76 ordered.Judging by Sukhois latest work, Kwiatkowski says that it looks like engineering and science still drive the companys efforts, which is crucial in a highly competitive world, where the organizations that can respond most rapidly and most wisely will prevail, and this includes cost effectiveness. The latter is something US aircraft makers in particular should take heed of, she stressed.*A terrorist group outlawed in Russia and many other countries. russia ussr 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 what are the most popular sukhoi planes, what are the top sukhoi fighters, what sukhoi fighters and bombers does russia operate https://sputnikglobe.com/20240729/us-risks-losing-in-event-of-multiple-conflicts-with-adversaries-defense-commission-finds-1119557228.html US Risks Losing in Event of Multiple Conflicts With Adversaries, Defense Commission Finds US Risks Losing in Event of Multiple Conflicts With Adversaries, Defense Commission Finds Sputnik International The United States risks losing in the event of multiple conflicts with adversaries due to a lack of capabilities and capacity, the congressionally established Commission on the National Defense Strategy said in a report. 2024-07-29T21:37+0000 2024-07-29T21:37+0000 2024-07-29T21:35+0000 military us military & intelligence russia china nato rand corporation national defense strategy us national defense strategy combat readiness https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/0a/1117243896_0:0:3286:1848_1920x0_80_0_0_99d8995ce2853eaa3874749a1a656bee.jpg The commission, which received administrative and analytic support from the RAND Corporation think tank, was tasked with examining and making recommendations based on the US National Defense Strategy. The United States confronts the most serious and the most challenging threats since the end of World War II, the think tank said in a statement on the commissions report.The US military lacks both the capabilities and capacity required to be confident in its ability to deter and prevail in combat, the report said. China and Russia are fusing military, diplomatic and industrial strength to expand global power, the report said, touching on past assertions that both nations are doing so as to further and 'coerce' neighbors in the region. The findings pointed out the US needs to undertake a similar integrated approach to meet China and Russia.The report further outlined that Russia intends to outlast the willingness of Western countries to support Ukraine and seek a favorable outcome to the conflict, noting that if Russia were to gain control over Ukraine, its borders with NATO would expand from the Arctic to the Black Sea. As such, it would only present significantly more demands for deployed NATO forces.However, China remains the preeminent challenge to US interests and its most formidable military threat, the report claimed. The commission recommends more effectively and efficiently building its future force instead of perpetuating its existing one. The US Congress should pass a supplemental appropriation bill to begin a multiyear investment in the industrial base and national security innovation, the report said.Included among the recommended options to improve US military readiness are an increase in space satellites, underwater vessels and a significant "boost" in "its forward presence in Eastern Europe."The goal is for Europe to take on a larger role in providing for its defense, with assured and critical support of the United States," the report states. "In light of the potential for simultaneous conflicts, capability targets apportioned to European allies through the NATO Defense Planning Process should be intentionally selected to reduce overreliance on the United States for key capabilities enablers.Also highlighted in the report was' concern that the US deficit poses national security risks, a figure that hit $35 trillion on Monday. Known for its military-centered budget, the report emphasized that the United States should increase security spending, accompanied by additional taxes and reforms to entitlement spending. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240521/high-dollar-us-military-equipment-not-performing-well-in-ukraine---blackwater-founder-1118570480.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240723/how-pentagons-2024-arctic-strategy-invites-confrontation-in-high-north-1119475354.html russia china 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 us, military & intelligence, russia, china, nato, rand corporation, national defense strategy, us national defense strategy, combat readiness, readiness Dresden Raceway newcomer Takeapeek At Me stole the show in the featured $5,200 Preferred 3 Handicap Trot on Sunday afternoon, July 28. Takeapeek At Me and driver Garrett Rooney landed in fourth ahead of last week's Preferred winner, Hot Fudge Sundae (Alfie Carroll), at the back of the compact field with the inside leavers duking it out to a :29.4 quarter. Rooney sent Takeapeek At Me first-up approaching the 1:01.1 half-mile mark and cleared to command down the backstretch with slight favourite Hot Fudge Sundae hot on his heels as they raced past three-quarters in 1:31.1. Those two took off in the stretch drive, with Takeapeek At Me holding for the half-length victory in 2:00.3. Zack To The Max (Andy Moore) finished more than three lengths back in third. Coming off a victory at Clinton Raceway last weekend, Takeapeek At Me was the even-money second choice and paid $4.10 to win. Trainer Jason Sherman co-owns the five-year-old Trixton gelding, who now has five wins from 24 starts this year, with Betty Sherman. Sherman later reclaimed the streaking Journalistic for $9,500 after the seven-year-old pacer's sixth win from the Cameron McQueen stable. Rooney worked out the winning pocket trip in rein to the son of Sportswriter who collared pacesetter Jays N Tigers in 1:57.4. The popular pacer has been claimed seven times this year while putting together a record reading 13-6-4 from 30 starts. A pair of No Contests marred Sunday's 10-race card with all wagers refunded in the seventh and ninth races. The seventh race was called off for safety reasons after the first quarter when the race leader, Better Than Cash (Don Rankin Jr.), sustained a broken a line. The No Contest in race nine was the result of an accident that occurred after the first quarter when Bernard Desmond's four-year-old pacer Hawk In Flight (Don Rankin Jr.) broke stride coming out of the turn and fell. Sand Walker (Dwain Spitzig) collided with him from behind. Trailer Blueberry Crush (Andy Moore) was able to get around the fallen horses while the accident siren was activated notifying the the rest of the field in front to pull up. Rankin was checked by EMS and cleared to drive in the remaining race on the card. Dresden Raceway reported via social media that Hawk In Flight was euthanized. Please joined Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of Hawk In Flight. To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results - Dresden Raceway. (Standardbred Canada) 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: OpenAI said the SearchGPT prototype is a temporary tool that will be integrated into ChatGPT. Credit: Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, just took its most direct shot at Google yet. The company has unveiled its take on web search with the launch of SearchGPT, a new temporary search tool it is prototyping in partnership with some of the biggest names in publishing, including The Atlantic, Vox Media and News Corp. From asking for the day's weather forecast and a rundown of the latest global headlines to details about upcoming concerts in the area and ingredients for meals, the new tool gives users direct answers to their queries and includes attributions and web links to sources, OpenAI says. SearchGPT is not an official product available to anyone. OpenAI has said it will be making the tool available to a small number of users and publishers in the weeks ahead as it works to refine the product before eventually integrating it into ChatGPT. Interested users can sign up to join a waitlist. A Northeastern University artificial intelligence and communications researcher says OpenAI's approach with SearchGPT is a step in the right direction since it is working with publishers and not using their work without permission and attribution, but it still likely will have the same deep foundational issues all large language model technologies have. "There's still no actual intelligence, just context-free pattern matching based on language, so there's still a pretty good chance that some of what gets spit out is going to be misleading or outright nonsense," says Michael Ann DeVito, a Northeastern professor of computer sciences and communication studies. "I'd also note that training on news content, while probably better than training just on public internet data, still has its own embedded bias problems." The SearchGPT system is similar to Perplexity AI's search engine, which also provides summarized answers and links to sources, though that company has come under fire by publishers for scraping the work of journalists without permission. Google also has its own AI products, including its AI chatbot (Gemini) and search feature (AI Overview). The AI Overview service had a bumpy start this spring, when it provided users with inaccurate information in their search results, suggesting people eat rocks and put glue on pizza. OpenAI had long been rumored to have been working on a search product to take on Google, especially as it began making deals with news publishers and online platforms such as Reddit over the past year. Many users have already been using ChatGPT as a pseudo-search tool due to its speed and conversational nature. The chatbot, however, is notorious for "hallucinating" and sharing false information. DeVito says these technologies are coming out at a time when media literacy among the general public has taken a nosedive over the past 10 years, making it more challenging for people to decipher a good source of information from a bad one. "We've backslid quite a bit in the past 10 years, unfortunately," she says. "We've gotten to this model, where we say "You'll find it on the internet." But we haven't taught people how to do that properly." For its part, ChatGPT states on the bottom of its web page that ChatGPT can make mistakes and it's important for people to double check the information. But DeVito says that warning does not go nearly far enough. "This is very akin to when the little warning on cigarettes used to be tiny. Was that enough? No, absolutely not," she adds. "We started seeing progress in public health when we made the warning labels huge and graphic. You need to catch people's attention with the warning just as much as the rest of the interface, and the warnings people are putting on there are equivalent to the fine text that they expect nobody to read." At their best, these tools should be seen as novel toys to be played around with and "not for anything mission critical," she says. "I would argue that it's best not to use these," she says. "If you are going to use these, I would be extremely skeptical of what you're getting out of them. You need to double check everything. Honestly, the time it will take for you to do that will take more time than just looking it up yourself." This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Amazon did not endanger warehouse workers at three Washington facilities, a state judge who oversaw a months-long trial on claims brought by safety regulators has ruled. Judge Stephen Pfeifer, of the state Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals, threw out four citations issued by Washington's Department of Labor & Industries against the e-commerce giant. Pfeifer, who sits on a board that adjudicates appeals of L&I decisions, determined the company had a robust health and safety program, according to a copy of the ruling viewed by The Seattle Times. The judge's order, issued on July 24 and not yet publicly available, rejected allegations that have been brewing for years. Following inspections that started in 2020, L&I accused Amazon of creating an unsafe environment in three Washington warehouses. L&I alleged Amazon put workers at risk of injury due to repetitive motions and a fast pace of work. In one of the four citations, L&I, Washington's workplace safety regulator comparable to the federal government's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, claimed Amazon was willfully putting workers in harm's way, prioritizing speed over safety. The ruling is one of the first amid a flurry of allegations about the safety of Amazon's warehouses. It's also a setback to workplace activists who have long said there is not enough action being taken to protect warehouse workers. If L&I had prevailed, Amazon would have been forced to change its operations, following suggestions from the department's experts. It also could have set a precedent for other ongoing investigations into Amazon warehousesin Washington and around the country. Pfeifer ruled that L&I's evidence, offered over the course of a months-long trial that started last July, had been "unpersuasive for several reasons." L&I failed to establish a link between high injury rates and specific jobs at Amazon warehouses, Pfeifer found. It also did not establish that the pace of work at Amazon was hazardous, he continued, and did not prove that the alleged violations were "the result of intentional disregard and plain indifference." A spokesperson from L&I said the department disagrees with Pfeifer's "characterization of the facts and interpretation of the law." L&I is preparing its appeal, the spokesperson said. "Employers have a duty, well established in state law and the Washington Constitution, to provide a safe workplace," the spokesperson said. "Our investigation showed that Amazon did not protect their workers." Amazon spokesperson Maureen Lynch Vogel said in a statement July 25 that Pfeifer's ruling "reinforces what we've said all along: there's nothing more important than our employees' health and safety." "We offer good, safe jobs; we're putting employees' feedback into action; we're committed to continuously improving; and we're making progress toward our goal to be the safest company in the industries in which we operate," she said. The full text of the ruling is not publicly available as it is being reviewed for potential trade secrets. A spokesperson for the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals confirmed Thursday that the citations had been dropped. Pfeifer wrote that the citations against Amazon "were not and still are not final," as L&I may appeal the decision. What did regulators claim? The ruling comes more than a year after Amazon and L&I went to court to litigate four citations issued against Amazon for purported violations of Washington workplace safety regulations. With Wednesday's ruling, Amazon also avoids paying an $81,000 fine. The citations, issued in 2021 and 2022, accused Amazon of putting employees at an increased risk of injury because workers had to perform repetitive motions, like lifting, twisting and bending. Those motions were likely to cause musculoskeletal disorders, or MSDs, a type of injury that can impact the muscles, nerves, tendons or joints, L&I said. MSDs can range from carpal tunnel to back pain to wrist strains. At Amazon, L&I found in its inspections, employees were often expected to work at such a fast pace that they could not perform these motions safely and did not have time for breaks. As the workers tired, the risk of injury went up, L&I experts testified. Three Amazon facilities were targets of the citations: fulfillment centers in DuPont and Kent, as well as a delivery station in Sumner. The delivery station has since shut down, a decision that Amazon said predated L&I's inspection. In March 2022, L&I accused Amazon of "knowingly putting workers at risk" at its Kent warehouse because the department had accused Amazon of similar violations at other facilities in the state. Amazon appealed all four citations, arguing that employees work at a comfortable pace and that the company's investment in training, equipment and safety protocols has led to a decrease in injuries over the years. Attorneys for Amazon argued in court that L&I does not understand how the company's warehouses operate and that the agency's proposed changes would not only be "tremendously disruptive," but could also open workers up to new injuries. The company accused L&I's experts of miscalculating the risk of injury in several of the work processes the department measured. Washington's Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals, an independent state agency responsible for hearing appeals related to workers' compensation, safety citations and other decisions made by L&I, grouped together the four citations issued against Amazon. Other claims remain In the years since those citations, Amazon has faced more scrutiny over working conditions at its warehouses across the country. Federal safety regulators from OSHA have accused Amazon of failing to provide a safe workplace and not properly recording work-related injuries. Attorneys with the U.S. Department of Justice's civil division are investigating whether Amazon "engaged in a fraudulent scheme designed to hide the true number of injuries" to its workers. U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee opened their own investigation into Amazon's safety record and the company's treatment of workers who are injured on the job. In a preliminary report released earlier this month, Sanders found Amazon's injury rate was even higher than previously reported. Citing internal data that Amazon shared with the committee, the interim report found that Amazon's injury rate during Prime Day 2019 was roughly 45 injuries per 100 workers. Amazon disputes those findings. The company says its warehouses are getting safer and its annual safety report showed a decrease in injury rates in 2023 for the second year in a row. Amazon reported 4.7 injuries per 200,000 working hours at its global facilities last year, compared with 5.1 injuries per 200,000 working hours the year before. In Washington, L&I issued another citation in June 2023 following allegations that Amazon forced its delivery drivers at a Sumner facility to work at an unsafe pace. Last July, L&I issued yet another citation over allegations that Amazon knowingly put workers at risk of injury in its Spokane fulfillment center. L&I's "willful" citation in Spokane hinged on the fact that the department's experts had raised similar concerns about repetitive motions at Amazon's warehouses in DuPont and Kent, according to inspection records viewed by The Seattle Times. It's not clear what Pfeifer's ruling vacating citations related to those earlier investigations will mean for the pending claims in Spokane. Amazon has appealed last year's citations in Spokane and Sumner as wellmeaning the future of Amazon's warehouses in Washington is still far from decided. 2024 The Seattle 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: Credit: Google DeepMind from Pexels Inspired by the map makers of the 20th Century, Imperial researchers have demonstrated a new way to identify copyright holders' work in LLMs. The technique was presented at the International Conference on Machine Learning in Vienna this week, and is detailed in this preprint on the arXiv server. Generative AI is taking the world by storm, already transforming the day-to-day lives of millions of people. Yet today, AI is often built on "shaky" legal grounds when it comes to training data. Modern AI models, such as Large Language Models (LLMs), require vast amounts of text, images and other forms of content from the internet to achieve its impressive capabilities. In a new paper from Imperial College London experts, researchers propose a mechanism to detect the use of data for AI training. They hope that their proposed method will serve as a step towards greater openness and transparency in a rapidly evolving field of Generative AI, and will help authors better understand how their texts are used. Lead researcher Dr. Yves-Alexandre de Montjoye, from Imperial's Department of Computing, said, "Taking inspiration from the map makers of the early 20th century, who put phantom towns on their maps to detect illicit copies, we study how injection of 'copyright traps'unique fictitious sentencesinto the original text enables content detectability in a trained LLM." First, the content owner would repeat a copyright trap multiple times across their collection of documents (e.g. news articles). Then, if an LLM developer scrapes the data and trains a model on it, the data owner would be able to confidently prove training by observing irregularities in the model's outputs. The proposal is best suited for online publishers, who could hide the copyright trap sentence across news article, such that it stays invisible to the reader, yet is likely to be picked up by a data scraper. However, Dr. de Montjoye emphasizes how LLM developers could develop techniques to remove traps and avoid detection. With traps being embedded in several different ways across news articles, successfully removing all of them is likely to require significant engineering resources to stay ahead of new ways to embed them. To verify the validity of the approach, they partnered with a team in France, training a "truly bilingual" English-French 1.3B-parameter LLM, injecting various copyright traps into the training set of a real-world state-of-the-art parameter-efficient language model. The researchers believe the success of their experiments enables better transparency tools for the field of LLM training. Co-author Igor Shilov, also from Imperial College London's Department of Computing, added, "AI companies are increasingly reluctant to share any information about their training data. While the training data composition for GPT-3 and LLaMA (older models released by OpenAI and Meta AI respectively) is publicly known, it is no longer the case for the more recent models GPT-4 and LLaMA-2. "LLM developers have little incentive to be open about their training procedure, leading to a concerning lack of transparency (and thus fair profit sharing), making it more important than ever to have tools to inspect what went into the training process." Co-author Matthieu Meeus, also from Imperial College London's Department of Computing, said, "We believe the issue of AI training transparency and discussions on fair compensation for content creators to be very important for the future where AI is built in a responsible way. Our hope is that this work on copyright traps contributes towards a sustainable solution." More information: Matthieu Meeus et al, Copyright Traps for Large Language Models, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2402.09363 Journal information: arXiv 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: University of Miami With their massive sails stretched over towering masts, merchant ships that plied the world's oceans hundreds of years ago helped launch the era of commercial shipping, delivering goods of all kinds to different ports of call. Those early cargo ships would eventually give way to diesel-powered vessels. But along with the change in thrust came greenhouse gas emissions harmful to the planet. Now, a University of Miami College of Engineering researcher wants to help today's massive and modern cargo ships go greenand his strategy is to employ an age-old method of propulsion: wind. "What's old is new again," said GeCheng Zha, a professor of aerospace engineering and director of the Aerodynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics Lab. "With the technological advancements of today, wind-assisted propulsion is an efficient alternative to diesel engines. And the major advantage is that it's environmentally friendlyan effective way to decarbonize the shipping industry that's responsible for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions." Zha is developing giant cylinders that would be mounted on the decks of cargo ships, generating thrust by sucking in, pressurizing, and ejecting air in a different direction. Several stories high, each cylinder could be lowered, allowing ships to pass beneath bridges and to navigate in and out of ports. On some shipping routes, the cylinders could cut fuel consumption by as much as 50%, according to Zha, who is still in the design and simulation phase for his wind-propulsion instruments. His research couldn't be timelier. Last year, the International Maritime Organization, a United Nations specialized agency responsible for regulating maritime transport, announced a revised strategy that requires the international shipping industry to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions "by or around" 2050. "The shipping industry has had a tendency to resist change because diesel engines are so powerful," Zha said. "But now, with pressure mounting, either willingly or unwillingly, it will have to change." His high-tech cylinders represent a growing movement in the shipping industry to develop and employ wind-assisted technologies to make cargo ships greener. From spinning rotors that use the so-called Magnus force to convert wind energy into propulsive force to nonrotating suction wings that use vents and internal fans to achieve propulsion, the technology to power cargo ships with an age-old concept is gaining steam. The technology is already in use on some vessels. About 30 cargo ships out of a global fleet of roughly 60,000 are currently using wind propulsion, deploying rigid sails made of aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber that operate under minimum power from a ship's engines. That number is expected to increase to nearly 11,000 by the end of this decade, according to the London-based International Windship Association. Zha's nonrotating cylinders, developed with co-flow jet technology similar to what he employed for his ongoing research on new types of aircraft, would be "much more efficient" than wind-assisted propulsion units that are currently in use on the few cargo ships that have them, he said. "We would be capable of achieving greater thrust," he explained. Now, the only challenge that remains for Zha is securing funding to develop a prototype. "We'll get there," he said. "With about 90% of the world's trade traveling by ship, this technology is a 'windfall' of an idea." How the MSM destroyed journalism By Rachel Alexander web posted July 29, 2024 Some Americans wistfully yearn for a return to the journalism of last century. They point to longtime news anchor Walter Cronkite as a bastion of fairness, and wonder if we'll ever be able to retreat from the highly partisan style of today's journalism. While it seems noble, it's not based in reality. For example, the media was biased way back in the 1960s and 1970s against the Vietnam War, demoralizing Americans and their support for the war. Bias has always been there, it was just more subtle. And it was almost always against conservatives. The left dominated the media back then, and gradually became more emboldened about its bias. Books like Saul Alinsky's Rules for Radicals influenced the leftists in the media, convincing them that they needed to take more drastic action through journalism in order to influence the political sphere. One of the biggest ways this political activism crept into journalism was through the AP Stylebook. Each year, the Associated Press puts out updated stylistic guidelines for journalists. The book used to cover mainly non-substantive aspects, such as which words most accurately describe a certain situation or when words need capitalization. But now the guide has become Orwellian , instructing journalists to use certain woke buzzwords and avoiding words that have fallen out of favor with progressives. Most journalists are required by their publications to adhere to the AP Stylebook. The exceptions are conservative journalists and a few publications like The New York Times that have their own style guides, but those guides aren't substantively different. An MSM friend of mine told me that he doesn't like the label MSM. I asked him why not; the MSM has Pulitzer Prizes, dominates the leading papers like The Times, etc. He said it's because "half the country doesn't like the MSM and won't talk to me." I asked him why he bothers being MSM anymore, and he said it was because of their "vetting and standards." Now, I would argue that whatever credibility they had in this area has been thoroughly refuted at this point; the Orwellian bias of the AP Stylebook is a classic example. It is no longer establishing standards, but establishing propaganda. The MSM complains about the activism of right-wing journalism but they did it to themselves; right-wing journalism arose as a reaction to the MSM's increasing bias. Maricopa County tried to ban right-wing journalist Jordan Conradson of The Gateway Pundit from attending election news conferences, but the publication sued and won on First Amendment grounds, resulting in a $175,000 settlement against the county. The county's argument against allowing the prolific journalist to attend? "Conradson participates in political party events and associates with people and groups that demonstrate an inability to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest," the county said in pleadings. The irony is that the MSM now ignores conflicts of interest. In Arizona, the president of the Phoenix Society of Professionals the MSM's main organization is also the editor of the State Bar of Arizona 's magazine for attorneys. The collusion is offensive, and makes it unfair for conservative attorneys in Arizona to get fair treatment in the MSM. The group meets in Changing Hands bookstore, which brags about how it has no conservative books inside the store. A study that came out seven months ago found that only 3.4% of American journalists are Republicans. In contrast, more than 96% of journalists who contributed money in the 2016 presidential race contributed to Hillary Clinton, The Center for Public Integrity found. The ways the MSM has expanded into dictating politics instead of just reporting it is always expanding. One of those recent ways is by taking over much of polling. For years, everyone looked to the political polling aggregator FiveThirtyEight as a somewhat fair source for polls. But the MSM ABC bought it out and it's never been the same, with even its former owner Nate Silver denouncing the site for bias against pollster Rasmussen Reports, a favorite of conservatives. The new ownership threatened to drop Rasmussen from its site unless it answered questions about the pollster's political views. The use of anonymous sources by the MSM, which used to be frowned upon under most circumstances, continues to expand, as many of the rumors cited never prove ultimately to be accurate. But since the MSM almost completely ignores its own flaws, people never learn about how bad these likely made-up quotes are. There is a revolving door between the MSM and official government positions now; it's accepted that the MSM is now composed of activists. An article in 1997 warned about the phenomenon under the Clinton administration. Now, no one bats an eye when presidents tap MSM reporters for official jobs, then those officials return to the MSM afterwards. Any outrage now is usually directed towards the small minority of conservatives engaging in it. A poll from Axios a left-leaning site found that 92% of Republicans believe the MSM intentionally reports false stories. Who wants to read any further in an article after seeing pronouns like "they," phrases like "insurrection at the Capitol" (not a single J6 protester has ever even been charged with insurrection) or "birthing person?" As a result, we're now left in our own echo chambers, reading only news from our preferred partisan sources. I don't believe we're ever going back to the so-called heyday of journalism last century. I think the radicalization of journalism is here to stay and it's only going to get worse. The type of people attracted to journalism in today's era are mostly left-wing activists, who were further radicalized by the monolithically leftist universities, who believe "by any means necessary." Elon Musk helped break down some of these separate echo chambers by turning one of big tech's monolithically anti-conservative corporations into a fair platform. X the only place where conservatives and leftists regularly spar and free speech flows. While it's not changing the partisan aspect of journalism, we get some exposure to journalism outside of our echo chambers and it increases awareness of how crazy the left has become. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home What is behind South Africa's anti-Israel lawfare campaign? By Irina Tsukerman web posted July 29, 2024 Since Durban's 2001 World Conference Against Racism (WCAR) devolved into an antisemitic farce, South Africa has squandered the moral authority of overcoming apartheid by pursuing a perverse Soviet-Russian campaign against the Jewish State. After October 7, 2023, this effort accelerated with cases designed to enlist the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice in cynically accusing Israel of war crimes shortly after Hamas's genocidal attacks. Despite extensive documentationincluding harrowing video and confessions revealing Hamas's brutality, murder, and sex crimesthe ICJ's provisional order called for Israel to cease operations in the Gaza Strip generally and specifically in Rafah, on allegations of "genocide." No mention was made of Hamas's Israeli hostages or continuing attacks. This decision follows and closely mirrors the ICC's recent recommendation for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, equating them to Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and the now neutralized Mohammed Deif (yet not to the Hamas political leadership in Doha). For now, the ICC is still considering the request of the prosecutor to issue arrest warrants. Several states have joined South Africa in proceedings at the ICJ on the "genocide" allegations. Critics of both politicized institutions have correctly pointed to their records of bias, antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiments, and corruption. However, another common connection that the ICC and ICJ share is to South Africa's anti-Israel lobby campaigns, including a probable triangulated coordination between South Africa, the two courts, and several pro-Iran, pro-Hamas, pro-Qatar, and pro-Muslim Brotherhood nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Since South Africa took the unusual step of bringing Israel to court over allegations of "genocide" in Gaza, many lawyers, analysts, and journalists questioned the financing of such a scheme, pointing to possible bribes by Iran and Qatar. Indeed, South Africa's ties to Tehran and Hamas have been the subject of scrutiny for months. One early report raised questions about the dubious financial schemes enabling South Africa to pursue politicized legal campaigns amidst an economic and energy crisis, and exposed how South African banks are providing a platform for Hamas funding. A far more sinister network of highly cloistered, politically incestuous relationships exists among a handful of families comprising the bulk of South Africa's foreign policy elites. This report, for the first time, uncovers evidence showing how South Africa's weakened, but still ruling, African National Congress (ANC) party has obscured its ties to terrorist and extremist organizations and Iran through complex schemes that genuinely deserve to be scrutinized by the international community. The ANC's Cast of Corrupt Characters Even though Muslims comprise only approximately three percent of South Africa's population, the top leadership and critical positions in the foreign policy establishment, as well as other central positions, are dominated by Muslim Brotherhood followers and proponents. Several families with close ties to the ANC, which lost its dominance for the first time in the June 2024 elections, are at the forefront of many of the controversies involving anti-Israel actions, close dealings with Iran, Russia, and Hamas, and an overall ongoing orgy of corruption plaguing the government and the party. The nature of these connections can be explained by the Muslim Brotherhood's hierarchical and serpentine structure. This organization is exclusivist and entirely dependent on familial ties due to concerns with trust. As with any mafia, the Muslim Brotherhood benefits from layers of financial and political obfuscations while entrenching its interests through government, corporate, and civil society. The former leading anti-Israel, anti-American spokesperson of the ANC hierarchy in South Africa, Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor, who has served as Minister of International Relations and Cooperation since 2019, threatened to arrest any dual citizens serving in the IDF after October 7, upon their return to the country. Pandor converted to Islam before marrying in Botswana and pursuing a path that led her to the upper echelons of power. Her public career is not likely to end with the ministry. She may become a candidate for an influential international institution at the United Nations, the African Union, or even BRICS, the intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. Another key player in South Africa's ruling mafia is Pandor's brother, Zolani Kgosietsile "Kgosie" Matthews, an independent executive director at enX Group and Zarclear Holdings. Matthews was formerly the Group Chief Executive Officer at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa and Chairman of the Ports Regulator. He held other sensitive government-related positions and was the executive chair of the now-defunct Thea Laboratories, once one of the biggest companies in South Africa. Most importantly, he was councilor of South Africa's Independent Communications Authority at the peak of the MTN telecom scandal, when the communications giant was accused of paying bribes to the Taliban and Al Qaeda. MTN faced terror charges over being suspected of facilitating attacks in Iran and Afghanistan. The security scandal, however, was only the tip of the iceberg for MTN, which also had to pay billions in fines to Nigeria over violations involving failure to disconnect unregistered users from Nigeria's network. MTN retained the services of the Obama administration's former Attorney General, Eric Holder, to defend themselves. Matthews' meteoric rise and ability to evade accountability speaks to South Africa's systemic institutional corruption. Another pivotal role in the South African elite belongs to Naledi's husband, Sharif Joseph Pandor. Sharif Pandor encapsulates the extent to which political power and business influences have blended and have become ensconced in a few hands who have direct control over nearly all aspects of the South African economy. Sharif Pandor has led a manganese mining company in partnership with counterparts from China, and together with his son, Haroon Pandor, runs the Risco Group and Falaah Farms. The Pandor mining consortium, including the aforementioned project and a platinum operation, Nkwe Platinum, is mired in scandals, including the apparent "doctoring" of account books. When the founder of Nkwe's Australian office, Peter Landau, was sentenced to five years in prison for financial crimes, Pandor resigned but continued the "strawman" method of using third parties to advance his economic interests through illicit activity at no direct risk to himself. Sharif Pandor has used a British passport and his assorted contacts to help his wife, Naledi, accumulate significant wealth. At least three of her homes are registered to family members since she was precluded from owning these assets due to her government role. Sharif Pandor also travels where his wife's presence would attract scrutiny. For instance, in 2022, he traveled to Kazakhstan for either business or political dealings. Kazakhstan has become a significant hub for sanctions evasion by both Russia and Iran. The Pandor family and the ANC have strong connections with both countries, making it plausible that these trips were a cover for nefarious negotiations. Much of Russia's activity on the African continent is in mining, including those of the sanctioned Kremlin-aligned oligarch Viktor Vekselberg, whose South Africa-based United Manganese of Kalahari has been linked to Chancellor House, an ANC "funding front" to evade sanctions. Predictably, Vekselberg has contributed generously to the ANC. So far, however, the vast corruption and the willingness to enter dalliances with rogue actors have served the Pandor family well. The family reportedly owns a vast network of companies, including a sizeable biomedical company in South Africa with offices in 18 other countries. Though South African regulations restrict cabinet ministers to two cars and "the total purchase price for the car or cars chosen by ministers may not exceed 70 percent of a minister's annual remuneration package," Naledi Pandor held five luxury cars during her period of service. In addition, an aura of suspicious activity lingers over other Pandor family projects. For example, Sharif Pandor's fertilizer farms, owned with his son Fazloor Pandor and organized by his son Haroon Pandor, appear to be a cover for the ANC's illicit trade with Iran. Though Iran is a major fertilizer producer, exporting $1.8 billion worth of chemical fertilizers in the 2021-2022 crop year to become the world's 11th biggest chemical fertilizer exporter, it regularly and suspiciously imports significant quantities of fertilizer from South Africa. Most notably, Sharif Pandor's mining interests include manganese, platinum, uranium, and cobalt, used for batteries, electric vehicles (EVs), and military production. Pandor's potentially illicit activity does not end there. Sharif Pandor was involved with notable organized crime figures before 2005, including a South African mining magnate with close links to factions in the ruling ANC, who was embroiled in allegations of corporate fraud and misconduct, the extent of which was revealed only after he was shot dead. Sharif Pandor was a beneficiary of an irregular deal put together by Brett Kebble, from whom Pandor received almost a million rand. Kebble, who was murdered, managed to escape prosecution despite being described as one of the world's greatest unprosecuted frauds. Pandor was one of the top beneficiaries of this fraudulent empire. Similarly, Malcolm Mabaso, a partner and adviser to the ANC, and specifically to Sharif Pandor, has been heavily involved in moving and laundering the proceeds of diverse projects. Linda Mabaso, the Chair of Transnet, spearheaded a plan to build a significant South Africa railway, yet the tenders she attained were fraudulent. The Pandors' daughter, Aisha Pandor, now based in the United States, founded the SweepSouth domestic help service in South Africa. She and her husband also own a bioscience company allegedly tied to informal money relocation. However, Aisha's importance is limited to the financial aspects of the nepotistic ANC operations. The Mandela Link The most important, albeit former, political figure with ANC ties is Zwelivelile "Mandla" Mandela, the tribal chief of the Mvezo Traditional Council and the rogue grandson of Nelson Mandela. Mandla converted to Islam in 2016 upon marrying a Muslim woman. He is one of the leading voices supporting Hamas and Hizbullah, linking Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas interests in South Africa. Mandla has utilized various inherited institutions, such as the Mandela Foundation, to promote these interests while playing a leading social and political function as one of the legacy heirs of Nelson Mandela. He has capitalized on the deference given to the memory of his grandfather to advance political causes otherwise foreign and even hostile to the national interests of South Africa and the Mandela legacy. Mandla Mandela's Instagram page and posts show his support for IRGC Quds Unit Commander Qasem Soleimani and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Mandla is not the only son of ANC leaders to support Islamists. Yusha Duarte, Yasmin "Jessie" Duarte's son, has affiliations with South Africa's State Security Agency and was linked to the Gupta scandal involving a China railroad contract, yet moves easily between the United States, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa. His mother, "Comrade Jessie" (nee Dangor, sister of Zane and Mohammed Dangor, both highly influential anti-Israel diplomats within the Department of International Relations and Cooperation "DIRCO"), was a communist South African politician and acting Secretary-General of the African National Congress who, besides being a longtime anti-apartheid activist and staunch anti-Israel activist until her death in July 2022, also supported Islamists. Mandla Mandela's post on Instagram. "The grandson of South Africa's Nelson Mandela chanted 'Free Free Palestine' during his speech at the CHAN games opening on Friday, also proclaiming solidarity with Western Sahara." (Islam Channel on YouTube) John Duarte, Jessie's late husband, also exploited family connections, including his son-in-law's involvement in various shady dealings facilitated by Mabaso. Media exposure to these scandals has not curtailed this activity. Instead, limited public regrets were elicited. Zane Dangor, Jessie's brother, is another figure with a surprising list of posts, including Director General of DIRCO, Special Adviser to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Chief Operations Officer of DIRCO, and interim representative to the African Union. Like many others in the top ANC circles, Zane Dangor supported Islamists and worked closely with Naledi Pandor and the new foreign minister, Ronald Lamola. Mandla Mandela, Nelson Mandela's grandson served on the Executive Committee of the League of Parliamentarians for Al-Quds and Palestine. There have been many irregular developments on the watch of these "power families," which, independently of each other, would have raised red flags but, taken together, exhibit a pattern of manipulation, deception, and cover-ups. These developments include an oddly-timed South Africa peacekeeping mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which was seemingly inappropriate during South Africa's energy crisis. The mission has been linked to South Africa's Patrice Motsepe, the South African President's brother-in-law, who has mining interests in the DRC and other territories, which may be a site of the transfer of military equipment and natural resources, such as cobalt, to Iran and other customers. Irregularities in maritime activity show signs of foul play. A Russian cargo ship, the Lady R, mysteriously appeared at a South African naval base in Simon's Town on the evening of December 6, 2022, halfway through its circumnavigation of Africa, after turning off its marine tracking system south of Agulhas the day before, in an unexpected and controversial maneuver. The cargo ship, already under U.S. sanctions and refused service at the Ngqura-Port Elizabeth as a result, was allowed to load South African weapons for use by Russia against Ukraine with an Emirati company's facilitation and under a high-security detail; this became known as the "Lady Russia Gate" scandal after the allegations were made public by U.S. Ambassador Reuben Brigety. South Africa denied the weapons transfer, even as the "non-aligned" country's top general met his Russian counterpart in Moscow to discuss expanded military cooperation a week after the U.S. Ambassador's statement. Internal Political Strife? The potentially deadly rivalry between former South African President Jacob Zuma's and current President Cyril Ramaphosa's political camps has dimensions far beyond internal palace intrigue. The recent elections' political repercussions could determine the ANC's long-term future. Key ANC members have benefited from another MTN scandal involving Nigeria and Uganda and a $4 billion deal with Iran featuring gross mismanagement, the purloining of funding, and improper reporting. With President Ramaphosa on MTN's board of directors at the time, the optics were even worse. Rather than divesting himself from business interests, Ramaphosa strategically placed all his personal interests in trusts and suspicious offshore accounts. MTN's biggest business deal was with Iran, and its players were directly connected to South Africa's elite ruling ANC party. Despite his scandalous history, former President Jacob Zuma and his new political party, suspected of receiving financial support from Russian influencers, remain a powerful figure in South African politics. The Iranian Connection If South Africa's ruling elite is receiving compensation for its lawfare operations against Israel, it is likely via indirect, carefully concealed, and seemingly unrelated personal financial dealings. A specific quid pro quo is difficult to trace without an extensive investigation. However, all existing indicators point to an extensive mutually beneficial infrastructure, a depth of financial ties, and a framework for fraud, providing plausible conduits for such exchanges. Several factors have contributed to the flourishing relations between Iran and South Africa over the last few decades. First, a network of trusted associates is in place. The close-knit, even familial ties, among the ANC leadership and its long, legacy-linked hold on power in South Africa creates a perfect political storm for exploitation by a regime seeking opaque options for expanding its sphere of influence. The second factor is the recent reinvention of the otherwise faltering BRICS alliance as an economic vehicle for circumventing sanctions on Russia and export-import controls, particularly over technology exchanges. BRICS provides various avenues to evade Western scrutiny and the impact of tightened financial controls, whether its proposed bank and currency become a reality. South Africa may not be the most robust economy among BRICS members, but it is quite active in Africa, has a long record of success in obfuscating financial investigations, and was particularly welcoming to Iran as a prospective new member. Sharing this multilateral infrastructure is taking the relationship to a new level. The third factor contributing to strengthening these ties is the existence of specialized routes for facilitating bilateral financial corruption. These routes range from shell corporations with deep ties to the Iranian regime, such as One Vision Investments, to more byzantine structures, such as the ubiquitous apparent sale of Persian carpets in small stores set up across South Africa. Although these carpets are not typically a big-selling product in South Africa, they are a convenient cover for money laundering and plausible meeting places for private exchanges and deals. A significant and largely unexamined nexus for illicit money laundering are charities and insurance companies acquired with Iran's involvement and managed by the ANC elite, second and third-tier associates. The list of associates involved in these projects seems endless. To mention a few outstanding names, One Vision Investments' Nazem Ahmad (who has Beirut ties) is wanted by the U.S. Department of Justice as being a U.S. Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)-designated Hizbullah financier. There has also been a triangulation between the Russian oligarchs Viktor Vekselberg, Dimitri Gordin, and Konstantin Sadovnik, who run the Kalahari manganese mines and alloy mining projects. They do this primarily through the Sharif Pandor's consortium and others. Iran's trade with South Africa is linked to dozens of companies engaged in products and services, ranging from data systems to forensics to shipping companies and the media, such as the pro-Hamas Media Review Network, based in South Africa. At the same time, Ramaphosa was Chairman of MTN, while Christian Kilowan, the Chairman of AMOSS Payments, was Managing Director of MTN in Iran. South Africa's MTN received a license, a contract paid for by bribes and weapons, and ultimately, an Irancell MTN license for arms dealing. The ANC front companies generally have multiple subsidiaries, which makes tracing transactions a complex and intimidating process. Some have ties to both the South African government and Iran, including Denel SOC, which is suspected of working directly with the Iranian military. In 2012, photos emerged showing an Iranian drone in Syria bearing a remarkable resemblance to its South African counterpart. One of the projects Iran was reportedly interested in more recently was acquiring a surface-to-air missile system manufactured by Denell. Reportedly, the former Defense Minister, Patrick Lekota, cultivated close ties with Iran. Similarly, Abdul Minty, the top nuclear envoy for South Africa, traveled to Iran in 2007 for unclear reasons. Has South Africa facilitated Iran's nuclear weapons program? Such connections bear closer scrutiny but remain largely ignored in public discourse. Iran's corporations also share ties with South Africa. In the field of telecommunications, Iran's sphere of influence has penetrated South Africa. Telcom, for instance, affords a significant connection between South Africa and Iran, providing the latter with access to data, services, surveillance possibilities, data cloud, and artificial intelligence. Yet another company with financial ties to Iran is SPI International, a company sanctioned for transporting Iranian petrochemicals. Pension funds are also lucrative enterprises, and Iran's pension system comprises 18 contributory funds, which provide defined benefit (DB) pensions. SPI International Proprietary Ltd (SPII), the leading Chemical & Petrochemical Marketing and Distribution Company owned by SATA Investment Co. (SHASTAN), is the third largest of Iran's pension funds. The United States has sanctioned this joint Iranian/South African company for terror, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and human rights violations. Notably, South Africa's energy and chemical giant held a 50 percent stake in Arya Sasol, a joint venture with Iran's National Petrochemical Company. Iran has agreed with South Africa to "develop and equip" five refineries in South Africa. Iran's then-President Ebrahim Raisi confirmed this deal on August 25, 2023. Iran has long been involved in South African politics and business, building up an entire South African infrastructure that runs mainly through investment holdings and workers' health funds. A key example is the Iranian Dr. Mohamed Fazel Randera, the Chair of Workers Health in South Africa, Deputy Chair at the National Institute of Health in New Investment Holdings, a non-executive director of the Exaro Resources Ltd. (a petrochemical industry), the former Inspector General for South African's intelligence services, and a member of the Veterans League. Significantly, Randera served time in prison with Nelson Mandela, suggesting foreign infiltration of the ANC from its earliest days. Dr. Randera is a co-shareholder alongside Tsepho Malapo, a former Military Intelligence officer and the founder of Bohn South Africa. The Bohn company specializes in international technology, such as surveillance equipment, frequently appearing at intelligence gatherings, and offering services in geolocation and encrypted technologies. Malapo also has interests with the FARM, a data center controlled by South African State Security in Midrand between Johannesburg and Pretoria, and Workers Health. All of the Malepo companies appear to be shell companies that transact illicit business around the globe, including with Iran. But while Iran is one of the primary "clients" behind the ANC's recent series of legal attacks on Israel in international courts, it is not the only beneficiary or interlocutor on this issue. Irina Tsukerman, a national security and human rights lawyer, journalist, and geopolitical analyst, is a Fellow at the Arabian Peninsula Institute and a Fellow at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs. Home A pair of data center buildings totaling 276,000 square feet that CyrusOne is building along Omicron Drive on the far West Side are seen in this rendering provided by the company. Theyre among the latest in a surge of growth in such centers in San Antonio and elsewhere across Texas. CyrusOne Denise Harwood diagnoses an overheated computer processor at a Google data center. Such centers are proliferating as artificial intelligence and other computing becomes prevalent. Google An Amazon Web Services data center is shown near single-family homes in Stone Ridge, Virginia, in mid-July. Northern Virginia is the largest data center market in the world, but is facing headwinds from dwindling availability of land and electric power. Those are among reasons that Texas and San Antonio are increasingly being eyed for construction of the sprawling centers. Nathan Howard/Getty Images Microsoft Corp.s Texas Research Park data center is seen in this 2020 file photo. Staff file photo Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is opening a new data center in Temple. Its among a flurry of power-hungry data centers being built in cities across Texas raising new concerns about the states already-stretched power supply being able to keep up. Courtesy of Meta A cluster of data centers has been built on San Antonios far West Side. including this one along Lambda Drive near Omicron Drive. Billy Calzada/Staff photographer An under-the-radar group spearheaded by executives at companies that build and use data centers is pushing CPS Energy to consider whether it has enough juice to meet demand fueled by the rise of artificial intelligence. Its a reality across the country as power-hungry technology faces off against booming population and newly electrified infrastructure from cars to factories all vying for precious megawatts. They need power and they need it now, said Michael Webber, a professor of energy at the University of Texas at Austin. Theres an AI arms race underway. Its a good sign of economic activity and more revenue in the long run. But in the short term, theres a crunch. The local coalition, dubbed the Energy Forward Alliance, formed late last year and has met with CPS executives multiple times to ask about the city-owned utilitys plans for building infrastructure and expanding capacity for projects in the coming years. It also wants a say in how the costs for doing so would be distributed among commercial and residential customers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The effort reflects the growing tension between companies expanding their use of AI and rushing to beat competitors in building data centers sprawling buildings filled with supercomputers that operate around the clock and already-strained power grids in Texas and elsewhere having to shoulder a skyrocketing amount of demand. Data centers could consume 9% of all U.S. electricity generation by 2030, more than double the current amount, largely because of the power required for AI computing, according to a recent study by the nonprofit Electric Power Research Institute Inc. Such facilities in Texas consumed an estimated 4.59% of the states electricity in 2023. The rapid pace of data center development is testing the ability of electric companies to keep pace, said Stephen Stella, senior manager of research and development at the institute. The local group is made up of large corporate customers and driven by those that build or operate data centers, said a source familiar with the alliance who requested anonymity to discuss the private coalitions goals. They are concerned about whether there will be enough power to support more technology capabilities at their companies and construction of more data centers as well as capacity for businesses considering moving operations to the area, the source said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Executives at Microsoft Corp., Stream Data Centers, CloudHQ, Vantage Data Centers, Tract, Holt Cat, USAA, Pape-Dawson Engineers, Valero Energy Corp., Frost Bank, Port San Antonio, the University of Texas at San Antonio, CyrusOne, Toyota Motor North America, AT&T and Corscale were among the recipients of a June email about one of the groups meetings. As the world changes, our utility company will have to change to meet the demands and we thought wed get ahead of the curve, said Bill Kaufman of the Kaufman Group, which is helping organize and manage the alliance. We need to be working with CPS to let them know what our growth plans are, make sure thats in the queue for planning. CPS already is gearing up for a tenfold increase in demand from data centers, which are expected to consume more than 3,300 megawatts by 2033, or enough energy to power more than 650,000 homes. The utilitys leaders have been receptive to questions from the group, which has not made specific requests or recommendations so far, Kaufman said. POWER HUNGRY: CPS Energy prepares for tenfold increase in electricity demand from San Antonio data centers CPS declined to respond to questions last week, with a spokesperson citing the utilitys focus on memorializing a lineman who died after being electrocuted while working on a power line Tuesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Data center boom Demand for data centers is surging in Texas, which has become an attractive location for such facilities because the cost of power is low compared with other parts of the country. Theres also land available, its easy to get to from the East and West coasts and severe weather events are infrequent in most of the states major cities. Many of the centers are building new AI technology virtual assistants like ChatGPT take months of computing to accomplish. And every company such as Spotify, Netflix and Meta wants to be ahead of competitors as they launch new tools that can take up to nine months of running models to create, Webber said. And those companies arent willing to pause that modeling for even 15 minutes during peak summer energy-use periods when the grid is stressed. That 15 minutes is way too valuable to them, Webber said, because theyre in a footrace with everybody else. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Dallas-Fort Worth area ranks second among U.S. markets by inventory of data centers, behind northern Virginia but ahead of Silicon Valley, according to commercial real estate services firm CBRE. The San Antonio data center market is far smaller but its inventory of data centers is increasing, in part because of CPS comparatively low rates and the fact hurricanes are not a major problem. Some companies received tax abatements from the city years ago to build data centers here, a practice officials have since stopped. Despite their size, the facilities have few employees. The citys far West Side in particular has become a hot spot for data centers built by companies and agencies such as Microsoft, Valero, Cullen/Frost Bankers Inc., Christus Health, Lowes Cos. Inc., Amazon.com Inc. and the federal governments National Security Agency. Providers there can access power and fiber infrastructure, a half-dozen substations, the topography is fairly flat and its not too close to hazards such as airports, dams and water towers. But CPS leaders now are pointing companies away from the far West Side and toward east and southeast parts of the city to spread out the utillitys power loads and prevent congestion on its distribution system. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Webber said data centers are increasingly seeking out cites like San Antonio and Austin because power hookups and access to transmission are more plentiful than in rural areas. They dont want to wait any longer than they have to for power, but the challenge comes in there being less space for their big facilities. Infrastructure challenges Utilities arent operating at the same pace. Data centers can be built in months while it takes years for utilities to construct the infrastructure to expand distribution and generation, the Electric Power Research Institutes Stella said. Some owners have specific goals for reducing carbon emissions, which puts more constraints on energy supply options, he added. Technology is changing fast. A 150,000-square-foot data center that needed 9 megawatts of power in 2016 needed 60 megawatts in 2023, according to Ellen Buck, vice president of operations services with utility company Oncor in Dallas. Thats not insight utilities had even 18 months ago, she said during a Texas Senate hearing in June. Said Webber: The scale is changing in a way that is catching utilities off guard. Some utilities are quoting lengthy wait times for data centers to connect to a grid, which is prompting operators to turn to natural gas-powered microgrid makers such as Enchanted Rock to get operations started more quickly. The company, which has offices in Houston and California, said after the new data centers are able to connect to the regular power grid, the microgrids stay onsite to offer backup power. Theres growing interest from data centers in microgrid backup power to support their needs now and in the future, said Allan Schurr, Enchanted Rocks chief commercial officer. New data centers are increasing in size so dramatically that the grid cannot keep up. The influx of demand is also a challenge for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the statewide grid, and lawmakers have balked at how much demand it will be taking on over the next decade. ERCOT projected in April that the states power load could hit 152,000 megawatts by the end of the decade, up from about 85,000 megawatts currently. At state House and Senate hearings in June, lawmakers questioned whether increasing development of data centers and bitcoin mining operations were straining already-overloaded transmission lines and adding to the crunch. The ongoing influx of new businesses, however, is not from cryptominers but those offering cloud back-up services and AI tools. Every major metropolitan area that has data needs is going through this transformation where were having to think about these really large customers differently, CPS CEO Rudy Garza told the utilitys trustees in December. In addition to using microgrids as a power source, Webber said data centers can also locate next to new energy sources such as solar farms or battery storage sites, which are rapidly growing in Texas. Cost of growth CPS has said its planning further ahead than ever because of the rapid pace of growth in data and other soaring demand. Planning for data centers comes with predictability, though: once they are ramped up, their usage is predictable and stable. CPS has already planned to expand its generation fleet with new, more efficient natural gas plants and by adding more solar, wind and battery capacity. To date, it has added 1,710 megawatts of natural gas generation, 730 megawatts of solar generation and 50 megawatts of energy storage as part of its generation plan. An additional 500 megawatts of storage such as battery systems is in the works. Joshua Rhodes, a research Scientist at UT-Austin, said he can understand average ratepayers wondering how their wallets might be impacted by such growth. But the cost to build new power plants should be offset by new revenue from selling the electricity on the ERCOT market, he said. Whether or not thats an exact one-to-one is hard to say, Rhodes added. Because CPS is owned by the city, San Antonio gets a 14% cut of the utilitys revenue, a fact Webber said should ease pressure on taxpayers because the data centers would increase the utilitys earnings. Already, though, CPS has described the next decade as one of major investments and rate increases to pay for them. CPS trustees in February approved a $1.8 billion spending plan for the fiscal year through January, including a 15% increase in operating costs to help cover the costs of new generation. After intense debate and concerns about further burdening residents in a city plagued by poverty, the City Council last year approved a 4.25% rate increase the utility said it needed to keep up with a rapidly increasing population, replacing aging infrastructure and an out-of-date software program, and investing in other upgrades in grid reliability. The hike was CPS second in two years and it expects to pitch another in 2025 that could be as high as 5.5%. Geekdom Community Coordinator Briana Rodriguez, left, talks with an attendee of the opening of the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on March 6. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Matthew Egan, left, poses a question to Ama Osei-Bonsu, right, in the new Geekdom podcast studio on March 6. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Geekdom CEO Charles Wooden speaks during the State-of-Geekdom luncheon in March at the Briscoe Museum of Western Art. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Robin Jerstad A large Geekdom sign is seen from the outside the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on March 6. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News People network in the coffee bar area in the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on March 6. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Amzi Austin works on his laptop at the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on March 6. Geekdom is partnering with Google on a program to provide startups with cloud computing and artificial intelligence resources. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Google is investing in area startups through a new partnership with Geekdom, the entrepreneurship-focused organization with a downtown coworking space. The Google for Startups Cloud Program will offer participants in Geekdoms incubator or pre-accelerator programs access to Google resources, including those aimed at using artificial intelligence, designed to help early stage founders. We are particularly excited about Google Clouds innovations and developments in AI and believe this partnership will provide an accelerated path for startups to leverage their AI solutions and power their growth, Geekdom CEO Charles Woodin said in a statement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Through the partnership, founders will receive: Google Cloud credits that they can apply to cost-effectively experiment, build and scale their businesses. Access to learning resources such as labs, workshops, Google Cloud experts and live classes to help startups use Googles generative AI solutions, including its Gemini models. Discounts on Google products. Access to a dedicated startup success manager, which gives founders a single point of contact for Google. We are excited to equip Geekdoms founders with our open and optimized stack for AI, broad choice of infrastructure solutions, and many important resources tailored for startups, said Sean Patterson, a Google customer engineer who works at Geekdoms space. At least one local entrepreneur is already taking advantage of the deal. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ray Cantu, founder of ColdCALR, a growing AI-powered software as a service platform for training people to communicate with customers, called the partnership a game-changer for his business. ColdCALR, a little over a year old, simulates common and difficult conversations that people may experience during business calls. Cantus customers include software developers, nutrition counselors, commercial real estate firms and recruiting organizations. We provide a really easy way to be able to simulate those interactions and then get immediate feedback on how to improve, he said. Google has really been a blessing for us. Cantu took his company through Geekdoms incubator and pre-accelerator programs, and in October he won the 2023 Geekdom Community Fund investment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Google provides solutions for storage, AI, analytics, databases and other capabilities within its infrastructure that help streamline things for startups. The Google for Startups Cloud Program generally provides $2,000 in Google Cloud credits initially, but under the Google-Geekdom partnership, startups will receive $25,000 in credits, Cantu said. The credits that ColdCALR received will be a boon to its testing and development, Cantu said. Elon Musk appears at an event with Britains Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in November in London. His computer-brain interface company Neuralink is expanding in suburban Austin. Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP Pager the macaque uses his mind to play Pong in this screen capture from a Neuralink video. The computer-brain interface company Neuralink is expanding in suburban Austin. Neuralink Six months after it made history with the first successful implant of a brain-computer interface in a human, Elon Musks Neuralink Corp. is growing its Texas footprint. The company is building a $14.7 million, 112,000-square-foot facility in Del Valle, an eastern suburb of Austin. A filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shows the three-story building will have offices, a machine shop and a cleanroom for device manufacturing. Its scheduled to be completed by next June. Neuralink has had offices and labs in the Austin area for several years but is headquartered in Fremont, Calif. Earlier this month, Musk said hes relocating the headquarters of two other California companies commercial space company SpaceX and social media company X to Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Neuralink, which was founded in 2016, achieved its goal of a neural-chip implant in a human subject earlier this year. In a January procedure at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, the company implanted its Link interface in the brain of Noland Arbaugh, a 29-year-old quadriplegic, to let him control a computer with his thoughts. A surgical robot cut a coin-sized hole in Arbaughs skull and implanted 64 flexible leads, or threads, thinner than a human hair. The leads contain 1,024 electrodes that record neural activity. The device provides him a capability that Neuralink calls telepathy, which allows people living with quadriplegia from spinal cord injury or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis to interact with a computer using their thoughts. It has helped me reconnect with the world, my friends, and my family, Arbaugh said in a statement. Its given me the ability to do things on my own again without needing my family at all hours of the day and night. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Said Musk: This is really quite a profound device that can help a lot of people who have lost the connection between their brain and body. Before his implant, Arbaughs main way to interface with a computer was a mouth-held stylus that a caregiver would have to place. Such a device prevents normal speech and can only be used while upright. Prolonged use can lead to discomfort and fatigue. Now hes able use computer applications and play games on his laptop, which he was unable to do with his mouth stick. While Neuralinks developments provide hope for the estimated 180,000 people living with quadriplegia, the technology is not without controversy. The company performs animal testing on pigs and macaques to research the devices at labs in California and Texas, and staffers and regulators have raised concern about the companys testing procedures. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In February, U.S. Food and Drug Administration inspectors identified record keeping and quality control problems at the companys animal research facility in California. However, a similar inspection of the Texas facility did not find any issues. The lab problems included missing calibration records for instruments and monitors. A 2022 U.S. Department of Agriculture probe into potential animal-welfare violations after staffers filed internal complaints found Neuralink animal testing was being rushed, causing needless suffering and deaths, according to a Reuters report. In July 2023, the USDA said it didnt find any violations beyond a 2019 incident the company had already reported. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Neuralink received FDA approval for its Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface, or PRIME, study in May 2023, and it began accepting applicants for its first human trial in September. Personal-injury lawyer Thomas J. Henry, shown at Austin Elevates in 2019, has been sanctioned by a federal court judge for failing to answer questions in a deposition about a case stemming from the event. Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Lawlor Media Group inc. Personal-injury lawyer Thomas J. Henry and Evelin Crossland attend Austin Elevates in 2019. A woman has sued Henry and his firm over an alleged sexual assault. Johnny Nunez, Contributor / Getty Images for Lawlor Media Group inc. AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 08: Thomas J. Henry attends as philanthropist and attorney Thomas J. Henry launches new art and music experience "Austin Elevates" at Parlor and Yard on November 08, 2019 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Lawlor Media Group inc.) Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Lawlor Media Gr High-profile San Antonio personal-injury lawyer Thomas J. Henry has been sanctioned by a federal judge for failing to answer questions during a deposition in a case of alleged sexual assault. On Thursday, U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower in Austin ordered Henry to complete the deposition and comply with court orders and rules. He also must pick up the tab for the re-deposition and cover fees and expenses the opposing party incurred in the original deposition last month, the judge ruled. The court finds that Henry and (his lawyer, Jason) Davis impeded, delayed and frustrated Henrys fair examination, in violation of federal court rules governing depositions by refusing to answer questions, flouting Court Orders, and unilaterally terminating his deposition, Hightower wrote in her order. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jay Ellwanger, an Austin lawyer who sought the sanctions, said he didnt know how much Henry will owe but added We believe it will be a five-figure penalty. Ellwanger represents a New York woman who alleges she was sexually assaulted by a director hired to work on a film commissioned by Henry chronicling Austin Elevates, a two-day art and music festival presented by Henry in 2019. The event benefited various charities. Henry is well-known for his advertisements on billboards, television, online and in newspapers across the state. He spends millions annually promoting his firms successes in scoring results for clients injured in car wrecks, workplaces and operating rooms. His firm has more than 250 lawyers, according to its website. Alleged assault The plaintiff, whom the San Antonio Express-News is not identifying as a matter of policy because she is an alleged victim of sexual assault, is suing Henry and his law firm for unsafe workplace negligence and negligent hiring, supervision and retention. Shes seeking more than $75,000 in damages. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Henry has countered that he and and his firm shouldnt be defendants because the woman and the director werent employees of his law firm. Even if they were employees, Henry said in a court filing he had no duty to protect the plaintiff from a sexual assault outside the workplace and after work hours. He has asked the court to rule in his favor without a trial, a request thats pending. Henry previously sought to have the case dismissed, a request Hightower recommended be denied in 2022. She did recommend the dismissal of some claims against the lawyer and his firm, including for sex trafficking and forced labor. Last year, then-U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel issued an order accepting Hightowers recommendations. Davis and his partner Caroline Small, who also represents Henry and his firm in the case, declined to comment on Hightowers latest ruling. In asking for a ruling in his favor, Henry has alleged testimony shows the plaintiffs motive is extortion. In another filing, Henry said the plaintiff began texting with E. Jean Carroll an advice columnist who was awarded $5 million last year by a jury that found she was sexually abused by Donald Trump almost immediately after the alleged encounter. Earlier this year, a jury awarded Carroll an additional $83.3 million after finding the former president had defamed her. Trump is appealing the judgments. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Carroll encouraged the plaintiff to report she was sexually assaulted while WORKING and that (director Robert) Herrera was your boss, Henrys filing said. The document includes a screenshot of Carrolls alleged text. The plaintiff also named Herrera, of St. Louis, and his production company Gray Picture LLC in the lawsuit. They are being sued for sex trafficking and negligent hiring, supervision and retention. She also has an assault claim against Herrera and another for negligence based on an unsafe workplace against his company. Herrera, through his lawyer, has denied the allegations. The womans suit said she was retained to work at Austin Elevates as a production assistant or assistant camera operator. The case was set to go to trial in September but postponed after it was reassigned to Senior U.S. District Judge David A. Ezra upon Yeakels retirement. Basic questions In her motion seeking to compel Henrys deposition and for sanctions, the plaintiff alleged he repeatedly refused to answer (per the instruction of counsel) even basic questions during the first two hours of his deposition. Among the questions: What is your address? the July 2 motion said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a July 9 court filing, Henry said the questions called for information that is confidential and proprietary to the law firm, and not relevant to any of the issues in dispute. Questions also related to his firms proprietary phone system, Henry said. The Express-News reported in 2022 that a lawyer at Henrys firm had disclosed in court papers that the firm records all phone calls, creating a thorny issue for it in some personal injury cases. In that case, counsel for Henry said the lawyer was mistaken about the firm recording calls after defense attorneys sought access to them. Hightower, the magistrate judge, had to be contacted twice during Henrys deposition, the plaintiffs court filing said. The judge told Henrys counsel to cease instructing the witness not to answer, the filing said. Rather than comply, immediately after concluding this second hearing with the Court the Defendant unilaterally terminated the deposition rather than follow the Courts order, the plaintiff said in the motion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gross misrepresentation Thats a gross misrepresentation of what actually occurred, Henry responded in a July 3 court filing. The parties had a disagreement over the scope of the deposition after Mr. Ellwanger embarked on a fishing expedition, Henry added. He also objected to Hightower conducting a hearing on the motion without notice being given or having the opportunity to present evidence. In her order, Hightower also noted she ordered Davis during the deposition to stop instructing his client not to answer questions within the scope of discovery. She also said that if any employment information may constitute trade secrets, as Henry contends, the testimony is adequately protected from disclosure by a protective order. Hightower declined the plaintiffs request that the judge be present for Henrys deposition, calling it a misallocation of scarce judicial resources. But the judge issued a warning to Henry and his firm. Five Orangeburg County Detention Center inmates are accused of participating in the stabbing of a double-murder suspect. The following men were charged Monday with attempted murder by the Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office: Harvey Randall McDaniel, 53, of Melody Lane, Cope Joshua David Shaw Crosby, 44, of Squire Drive, Cordova Lavore Rodriques Guinyard, 24, of Cream Puff Circle, Elloree Christopher Jamal Jackson, 31, of Song Sparrow Court, Cordova Kejuan R. Williams, 21, of 101 Crossing Circle, Orangeburg Double-murder suspect Antone Haynes, 35, of Cordova was stabbed on May 9. He survived. Haynes is accused of shooting and killing Kayla Bonita Beason, 32, and James Christopher Robinson Jr., 23, at Beasons Pontiac Lane home in Cordova on March 24. Haynes was stabbed on May 9 as inmates were out of their cells for recreation time. The incident was captured on surveillance video. The video shows Haynes speaking on a phone while five inmates gather nearby and begin chatting, an incident report states. After a few seconds, several inmates attack Haynes. The video allegedly shows one inmate reaching into his jumpsuit and pulling out what appeared to be a weapon. A deputy claims the video shows the inmate stabbing Haynes while Haynes fought with the four other inmates. Warrants allege McDaniel was the stabber. McDaniel was in jail awaiting trial on charges stemming from a Jan. 27 incident when he allegedly kidnapped and threatened to kill his wife. Double-murder suspect stabbed twice in Orangeburg jail A double-murder suspect was stabbed twice last week at the Orangeburg County Detention Center, according to an Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office incident report. That ended with a 12-hour standoff with Orangeburg County Sheriffs deputies. Hes accused of trying to kill seven deputies. McDaniels charges from that incident include: Seven counts of attempted murder Two counts of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person convicted of a violent felony Two counts of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime One count of domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature One count of kidnapping He was in a five-hour standoff a decade earlier with Georgia Bureau of Investigation officers. The officers were trying to pick him up on an Orangeburg County murder charge in October 2011. Instead of pleading guilty to murder, McDaniel pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in the stabbing death of 47-year-old William Danny Black of Stanfield Court. Circuit Judge Ed Dickson sentenced McDaniel to 18 years in prison. Get TheTandD.com for $1 Support local journalism by becoming a member at www.TheTandD.com. View our latest offer at TheTandD.com/subscribe McDaniel was released from prison under community supervision on June 30, 2023. If McDaniel and his four co-defendants are convicted in the May 9 stabbing incident, they each face up to 30 years in prison. They remain at the Orangeburg County Detention Center. A circuit judge may consider setting their bonds later. Apples iPhone falls out of top 5 in China as domestic brands take over high-end market Global Times) 08:53, July 29, 2024 Customers try out the Apple Vision Pro at an Apple Store on Wangfujing Street in Beijing, as the product officially goes on sale on June 28, 2024, in China. (Photo: Li Hao/GT) Apple was edged out of the top five smartphone vendors in China in the second quarter, as competition from Chinese domestic brands intensified, according to global research firms. The trend shows that with domestic handset makers surging ahead, the focus of competition among leading smartphone brands in the domestic market has subtly shifted from shipment volumes to high-end offerings, analysts said. A report released on Friday by research firm IDC said that the Chinese original equipment manufacturers - particularly Vivo, Huawei, and Xiaomi - with large double-digit growths, were the biggest contributors to the increased momentum in the second quarter. This led to pushing Apple into the sixth position and allowed local players once again to dominate the top five spots after a hiatus of nearly four years. Research firm Canalys also reported that Apple's iPhone ranked sixth in the Chinese mainland smartphone market, with a share of 14 percent, down by two percentage points year-on-year, following its Chinese rivals Vivo, Oppo, Honor, Huawei Technologies, and Xiaomi. According to Canalys' latest report issued on Thursday, Vivo reclaimed the No.1 spot by shipping 13.1 million units, capturing a 19 percent market share. The growth was driven by strong performances in brick-and-mortar channels and robust online sales during this year's June 18 (618) e-commerce shopping gala. Canalys analyst Lucas Zhong said it was the first time domestic vendors dominated all the top five positions in one quarter, showing that Chinese vendors' strategies for high-end products and their deep collaboration with local supply chains are starting to pay off in hardware and software features. In the second quarter, iPhone shipments in China totaled 9.7 million units, down from 10.4 million units a year earlier, despite experiencing strong year-on-year growth in shipment volumes in China in April and May, according to Canalys. Observers said that in recent years, Apple has built strong competitiveness in the Chinese market, fueled by the ongoing market openness and industrial upgrades. This also spurred the growth and strengthening of Chinese smartphone brands. Canalys noted that Chinese companies are investing in artificial intelligence infrastructure and developing proprietary models to gain a competitive edge in the high-end segment. This fierce domestic competition also drives their expansion into international markets, with milestones expected throughout 2024. Apple offered its largest-ever price cuts during the 618 shopping event to boost sales, with some iPhone models discounted by over 2,000 yuan ($276). This strategy secured the top spot for Apple on JD.com's smartphone sales rankings but did not reverse the overall decline in iPhone sales for the second quarter. Chinese domestic smartphone producers are making significant strides in the high-end market. Canalys analysts noted that in the second half of the year, the market will closely monitor Huawei's launch of HarmonyOS Next, as the company aims to establish it as a third major mobile operating system alongside Android and iOS. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) East Central Independent School District trustees and administrators, along with community members, tour the new Honor Elementary School on July 24 in Converse. The district's newest campus will welcome its first class of students Aug. 7. Provided by East Central ISD. East Central Independent School Districts newest elementary school will welcome its first class of students next month. The rapidly growing district hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week to celebrate its new campus, Honor Elementary School, which will open its doors when the school year starts Aug. 7. The school, at 3580 North Graytown Road in Converse, was built with funds from a $240 million bond approved by voters in 2022 to address overcrowding in the district. The bond package includes the construction of two other schools to alleviate student congestion at current campuses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its one thing to look at the plans and all the hard work that goes into this, but its certainly another thing to actually stand on the ground and see the faces that will be walking into a brand new building for the very first time with the excitement of everything going on around them that will contribute to their learning for the rest of their lives, said trustee Dell Braziel at the Wednesday event, which also included remarks from other trustees, Superintendent Roland Toscano and the new schools principal, Stephanie Orsak. East Central ISD currently serves about 10,000 students on the Southeast Side, but continued residential development is expected to draw in thousands more over the next decade. The district expects enrollment to reach 13,215 students by the end of 2025 and 19,689 students by 2032, making it one of the fastest-growing districts in Texas, East Central spokesperson Brandon Oliver said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While districts in the city center have been forced to shutter schools amid declining enrollment, East Central has continued to grow, prompting a need for more school buildings to accommodate its expanding student body. Valor Middle School is being built a few miles away from Honor Elementary School, next to Tradition Elementary School, and is expected to open in 2026. Construction crews are set to break ground on another elementary school in November. (TBTCO) - Theo bao cao tai chinh hop nhat quy III/2024 moi uoc cong bo, Cong ty CP Tong cong ty ia oc Sai Gon (ma CK: SGR) ghi nhan doanh thu gap 3 lan va loi nhuan sau thue tang hon 2 lan so voi cung ky nam truoc. Tuy nhien, du ket qua kinh doanh quy III kha quan nhung SGR van con mot chang uong dai e at uoc muc tieu nam, khi moi chi hoan thanh uoc 13,1% ke hoach e ra. 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). King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has secured the top position for Most On-Time Performance globally in June for the second consecutive month, according to Cirium Diio, a leading company specializing in aviation analytics. These rankings by Cirium Diio, based on extensive flight data and analyses, is aimed at airport and aviation facilities to improve the flight planning efficiency and enhance the travel experience by providing accurate and up-to-date flight information. Riyadh Airports Company CEO Ayman Abdulaziz AboAbah said this achievement reflects the companys commitment to operational excellence. It motivates continued high-quality performance in collaboration with various partners at King Khalid International Airport, aiming to provide the best travel experience and the highest level of service to passengers in line with the strategic goals of the capitals airport, stated AboAbah. He also highlighted the wise leadership's support for the sector in developing airport facilities and associated infrastructure in the kingdom. Additionally, he noted that King Khalid International Airport is one of these national landmarks that reflect the Kingdom's status and its future aspirations in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.-TradeArabia News Service Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the UAE outside oil and gas, welcomed for summer training over 25 UAE National high school and university students considering careers in industry. EGAs summer training programme has been running for more than two decades. It gives students first-hand experience of working in industry, and is particularly focused on students of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. More than 500 young UAE Nationals have participated in EGAs summer training programme since 2001, with many going on to pursue careers in EGA or other UAE industrial companies. Great opportunity Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: EGAs summer training programme is a great opportunity for young UAE Nationals to acquire first-hand experience of working in industry, and we know it inspires youth to pursue careers vital to the nations Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy. I welcome this years summer trainees to EGA and encourage each of them to make the most of this experience. I hope many will become the UAE industrial talent of the future. EGA is a significant employer for science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals, employing around 1,500 people in these fields including over 500 UAE Nationals. Some 1,200 UAE Nationals currently work at EGA. Over 700 of EGAs UAE National employees are under 35 years old. Last year, EGA recruited around 120 Emiratis, including 37 women. In-focus Emiratisation EGA is accelerating in-focus Emiratisation, targeting that the number of UAE Nationals rises as a proportion of the in-focus workforce by two per cent every year to reach 48% by 2026. This means EGA expects to hire up to 500 UAE Nationals by the end of 2026, including replacements for staff turnover and company growth. EGAs outreach programmes, which include Engineer the Future, EGAs Ambassador Programme, and an Al Robot competition for university engineering students, aim to grow the future national industrial workforce of the UAE Last month, EGA revealed that its Engineer the Future programme reached more than 7,300 students from 29 schools in the 2023-2024 academic year, and over 30,000 since the initiative was launched in 2017.--TradeArabia News Service Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy has supported 215 high-potential digital startups worth $7 billion to establish and grow their businesses in the emirate during H1 2024, achieving year-over-year (YoY) growth of 212%. During the first six months of 2024, the chamber trained 243 Emiratis as part of the 'Create Apps in Dubai' initiative, which was launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and is led by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The chamber also organised a total of 12 international roadshows aimed at promoting Expand North Star. Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the event is the worlds largest gathering of startups and investors and will take place in October. 15 local and international events In addition, the chamber further strengthened its presence as an organiser, strategic partner, and active participant in 15 local and international events during the first half of the year. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, commented: In line with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to consolidate the emirates status as a global capital for digital economy, we are strengthening our efforts to develop an ecosystem that promotes the growth of digital businesses, supports their expansion, and positions Dubai as the global capital of the digital economy. This comes as part of our drive to achieve the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which seeks to generate an average of AED100 billion ($27.2 billion) annually for the emirates economy through digital transformation projects. He added: Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy remains committed to further enhancing Dubai's attractiveness for companies and entrepreneurs operating within all technology-related disciplines. Our impactful programmes and initiatives are designed to develop the infrastructure, regulatory environment, and services available to the digital sector in Dubai. Create Apps in Dubai Initiative 'Create Apps in Dubai' was launched to strengthen digital capabilities in the UAE and has set a target to train 1,000 Emiratis in cooperation with the private sector. The initiative aims to triple the number of app developers in Dubai by 2025 and support 100 new national projects for the development of cutting-edge mobile applications. Spearheaded by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, 'Create Apps in Dubai' seeks to capitalise on emerging growth opportunities in the sector by creating a strong digital infrastructure, establishing a legislative framework that supports application development, and providing government incentives to accelerate the sector's growth, in line with the chamber's strategic objectives. The chamber signed four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with partners during H1 2024 aimed at enhancing Dubais digital business ecosystem and nurturing the growth of digital enterprises and technology companies. These included an MoU with Enterprise Ireland, an Irish government agency dedicated to trade and innovation that is the largest venture capital institution in Europe by number of deals. The agreement seeks to create a strategic partnership that promotes business opportunities, expansion, and mutual cooperation between companies within the digital sector from Dubai and Ireland.--TradeArabia News Service Emirates Water and Electricity Company (Ewec) has issued request for proposals (RFPs) to qualified companies and consortiums for the development of a new Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) plant located in the Madinat Zayed area, approximately 120km southwest of Abu Dhabi City. Expected to begin commercial operations in Q3 2027, the Madinat Zayed Independent Power Producer (IPP) project will provide up to 1.5 gigawatts (AC) of backup generation, which can be operational at very short notice. The project is being implemented on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) programme model, where developers enter into a long-term agreement with Ewec as the sole procurer. The scope of work for the winning bidder includes development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the plant (with up to 40% stake). The remaining equity will be held indirectly by the Abu Dhabi Government. As Ewec leads the UAE's shift towards renewable and clean energy, flexible, gas-fired plants like Madinat Zayed are key to ensuring a reliable energy supply while the country transitions to a decarbonised water and electricity system, said a top official. "Ewec is accelerating the UAEs energy transition, in line with our strategic mission to be a leader of change within the energy sector. Commissioning the development of flexible, gas-fired plants will enable us to incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar PV and wind into the nations sustainable energy mix even more rapidly," stated its CEO Othman Al Ali. "Natural gas has an important, transitional role to play in securing our system while we work towards a more sustainable future. As we move forward with the Madinat Zayed project, we look forward to receiving proposals from qualified companies and consortiums," he noted. These types of OCGT plants will be particularly important for supporting the growth of solar power, providing crucial flexibility during peak power demand periods and acting as a bridge to a future powered exclusively by clean and renewable sources, he added. The deadline for sending in the bids has been set for Q4.-TradeArabia News Service Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team member Tina Rivas while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi has worked his way up at Goodwill from a temporary worker to being the senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Vincent T. Davis started at the San Antonio Express-News in 1999 as a part-time City Desk Editorial Assistant working nights and weekends while attending San Antonio College and working on the staff of the campus newspaper, The Ranger. He completed a 3-month fellowship from the Freedom Forum Diversity Institute at Vanderbilt University in 2003 and earned his bachelors degree in communication design from Texas State University in 2006. Carlos Javier Sanchez, Contributor Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team member Tina Rivas while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi has worked his way up at Goodwill from a temporary worker to being the senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team member Ali Algburia while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi worked his way up at Goodwill from a temporary worker to being the senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team member Ali Algburia while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team member Kenneth Juan Cardona while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi meets with Goodwill team members Kenneth Wild and Stephanie Falchetti while making his rounds at work. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi leans back, smiling, as his son, Hamad, tickles his beard. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. He taught himself English after arriving in San Antonio as a refugee in 2009. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi and his wife, Marwa Alniemi, laugh as their youngest daughter, Talia, buries her brother Hamad in pillows. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. He taught himself English after arriving in San Antonio as a refugee in 2009. Jessica Phelps Haki Al-Azzawi and his wife, Marwa Alniemi, laugh as their youngest daughter, Talia, buries her brother Hamad in pillows. Al-Azzawi started at Goodwill as a temporary donation attendant and is now its senior director of retail operations. He taught himself English after arriving in San Antonio as a refugee in 2009. Jessica Phelps Almost 20 years ago, Haki Al-Azzawi fled an Iraq teetering on the brink of a religion-based civil war. His brother was murdered for working with the Iraqi Oil Ministry, then managed by the United States, which was struggling to keep a lid on the violence. Three days after the funeral, someone left an envelope at Al-Azzawis house. It contained a letter and a bullet he was next. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That night, his father arranged his escape to Syria. A cousin accompanied Al-Azzawi to the almost-deserted bus station, on guard for anyone out to harm the familys surviving son. Al-Azzawi boarded the bus bound for the border alone. He calculated he had a 50/50 chance of survival, wondering at each stop if guards would wave him on or turn him back. Regional connections and slipping most of what little cash he had to various officials enabled him to reach his destination. It was the first leg of a life-changing journey that ended in San Antonio, where Al-Azzawi arrived four years later holding a plastic bag of immigration paperwork, not speaking English and without a job. About the author A 22-year veteran of the Air Force, Vincent T. Davis embarked on a second career as a journalist and found his calling. Observing and listening across San Antonio, he finds intriguing tales to tell about everyday people. He shares his stories with Express-News subscribers every Monday morning. What he had was perseverance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I have to start here from the beginning, said Al-Azzawi, now 43. And work my way out in a country I know nothing about. He shared his story in his office in Windcrest, at the operations center of Goodwill Industries of San Antonio, which trains people for employment and a second chance. He started as an entry level donation attendant and in 14 years rose to become its senior director of retail operations. In May, Al-Azzawi graduated from Northwest Vista College, magna cum laude, with an associate degree in business management. Hes well versed in computer technology. He has a Herculean frame from years lifting weights. His journey to a new beginning began in 2005, when he stepped off the bus in Damascus, Syria with almost no resources except a degree in computer science from Baghdad University and some information technology experience. That helped him get a job managing an internet cafe. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trying to get to the United States, Al-Azzawi and his three sisters had applied for a U.N. International Organization for Migration program. Officials approved only his request. He appealed on their behalf, hesitant to leave them, but they persuaded him to grab the opportunity and Al-Azzawi became one of 18,838 Iraqis who immigrated to the United States in 2009. His sisters joined him a year later, when he was still struggling for a foothold in his new country. He had flown from Syria to Paris, then New Jersey, then Dallas and finally San Antonio to enter the Catholic Charities resettlement program, which provides shelter and support to hundreds of refugees each year through a contract with the State Department. The manager explained that Al-Azzawi would have to share an apartment with other immigrants, learn English and find a job. He could get Medicaid and food stamps, but only for six months. The deadline seemed daunting, but Al-Azzawi was determined to succeed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I didnt cross oceans to be homeless, he said. Al-Azzawi learned English using a phone translator app. He wrote scenarios he imagined hed face each day, and repeated phrases such as Good morning and How are you? to cashiers at grocery stores. He asked folks to speak slowly and when he said a word that wasnt right, they would correct and encourage him. A lot of people spent time and effort to help me, Al-Azzawi said. In six months, he could hold a basic conversation in English for up to 15 minutes. Anything beyond that became one more lesson to memorize. Al-Azzawis tenacity to find work kept him knocking on doors that never opened. As his benefits ended, he received a glimmer of hope. A friends wife told him about Goodwill. Hearing how people donated items to help others intrigued him. He went to see it for himself, and asked for work at the store on De Zavala Road. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Goodwill Careers Academy Center manager Janie Espinoza said there werent any jobs but enrolled Al-Azzawi in its vocational training classes one of which was an IT class. He excelled in the Comptia 90-day program. There was a bonus Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., hed make $7.25 an hour working a temporary job at the center. On the programs last day, a donation station job opened and store manager Sherry Lopez hired Al-Azzawi, who called it the biggest achievement for me in the United States at that time. He worked four years as a donation attendant. Donors called him the muscular guy. Because of his IT experience, administrators hired him as a computer salesman. Al-Azzawi and his teams high performance led to a series of promotions. They gave him the toughest store on Culebra Road. Al-Azzawi and his team made the location No. 1 for eight consecutive months. In 2018, George Staska, vice president of Donated Goods Retail, took over 26 Goodwill stores and their 800 employees. Each time he visited Al-Azzawis store, the production supervisor stood out. Staska was impressed how Al-Azzawi evaluated scenarios, analyzed data, and projected possible outcomes. Hed seize opportunities and run with them, Staska said. He doesnt work in the present, he works ahead. Hes my right arm. Each workday, Al-Azzawi steps inside the mammoth warehouse on the Northeast Side and greets workers separating donated items ranging in size from a Lego block to flat screen TVs. He wants to ensure team members are in good shape and there arent any work difficulties. At days end, he goes home to his wife and three children. He met Marwa Alniemi, who also came from Iraq, here in San Antonio and courted her for three years. Stresses are left at the door of his home gym, where he pumps iron to blinking lights he programmed on a computer hefting weights gives him peace. Past struggles are behind him. Overcoming obstacles helped not only him, but paved the way for loved ones his three sisters now live in San Antonio. Bapco Energies, the integrated energy group of Bahrain, announced the launch of its latest subsidiary, BeVentures, and the appointment of Areije Al Shakar as Chief Executive Officer of BeVentures. BeVentures, a subsidiary of Bapco Energies, will be dedicated to building and investing in transformative energy ventures. This entity will support Bapco Energies' sustainable transition to a low-carbon economy by investing in transformative technologies. By tapping into global energy opportunities, BeVentures aims to attract and develop innovative ventures that significantly impact the energy sector and adjacent industries. Additionally, it will create synergies with Bapco Energies' existing portfolio, fostering sustainable growth through new businesses that align strategically with Bapco Energies core strengths, thereby reinforcing operations and diversifying revenues. Al Shakar, a senior leader in the regional financial industry, brings extensive professional experience of over 20 years in banking and venture capital. She has a Kauffman Fellowship in Venture Capital and was the first Bahrain and the first female in the GCC to obtain this fellowship. Al Shakar previously served as Head of Innovation at Bahrain Development Bank & Fund Manager & Director at Al Waha Venture Capital Fund of Funds. Mark Thomas, Group Chief Executive Officer of Bapco Energies, confirmed that the launch of BeVentures underscores the Groups commitment to creating new investment opportunities, promoting innovation in energy and sustainable development, and building partnerships with technology pioneers and financial leaders. This endeavor fosters national economic growth and aligns with the strategic development plans for Bahrain under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Thomas welcomed Al Shakar to Bapco Energies, wishing her success in her new role: "Al Shakars appointment at BeVentures is a vital step aiming to drive substantial value across the Group. We are focused on achieving robust financial returns by nurturing our portfolio companies toward public listings or international expansion. He added, "BeVentures is strategically positioned to enrich our investment portfolio by tapping into the dynamic venture capital ecosystem. We are dedicated to achieving growth in the energy sector by investing in promising funds, sourcing innovative opportunities, and building strong partnerships that link innovative energy ventures with the necessary resources. --OGN/TradeArabia News Service India's top engineering and construction firm Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has announced that one of its key subsidiaries - Power Transmission & Distribution (PT&D) - has secured new orders in the range of Rs25 billion to Rs50 billion ($299 million to $599 million) from the Gulf region and India for establishing substations and transmission lines which are crucial elements of the vast, interconnected electricity network. Announcing the big wins, L&T said a strengthened grid speeds up clean energy transition and ensures reliable, resilient power supply and hence the demand in the GCC region. In its pursuit of providing sustainable and efficient power supply, Saudi Arabia is strengthening the 380kV network in the central region, it stated. In the kingdom, PT&D has secured new orders to build a 380kV substation and 380kV overhead line segments, while in the UAE, it has snapped up orders for construction of a 220kV substation and three 132kV substations. Adding these substations to the network will help the utilities keep pace with the increasing electricity demand in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it added. In India, PT&D has received orders to execute two 765kV double-circuit transmission line packages which are associated with evacuation of power from Jaisalmer/ Barmer Renewable Energy Zone in Rajasthan to substations in Madhya Pradesh for further interconnections.-TradeArabia News Service The Comfort Hotel Riyadh Olaya, which is strategically located in the heart of Riyadhs business district, Olaya, and designed with both local and international patrons in mind, has opened its doors to business and leisure travellers visiting Saudi Arabia. It serves as a great starting point to explore nearby local attractions such as The Sky Bridge at the Kingdom Center, the Obelisk-shaped Al Faisaliah Center, Tree Tower, World Sights Park, King Abdullah Park and the Boulevard Riyadh City. It is aligned to the newly refreshed Comfort hotel brand standards exhibiting a modern design and providing a warm, vibrant and friendly place to stay with energising casual spaces for socialising, relaxing, sleeping and working. The hotel has 88 guest bedrooms across eight floors, three meeting rooms with conference capacity for up to 60 guests, an onsite international restaurant, leisure facilities that include a fitness centre and a secured parking lot. Its opening is the third hotel of an agreement between Choice Hotels EMEA and Seera Holding Group to open at least ten hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the next five years. The first two properties, Clarion Jeddah Airport and Comfort King Road Jeddah, opened in 2022. TradeArabia News Service A 37-year-old woman is being charged with aggravated assault in an altercation in April in which she is accused of hitting a woman over the head with a metal pipe. According to court documents, Linsey Bondi hit another woman over the head with a metal pipe while trying to retrieve some of her items from the property. Earlier in the week, Bondi is also accused of trying to steal items from the thrift store at the same location. The situation began on April 5 when Bondi reportedly had a meltdown in the victims store, according to the affidavit. The following day, the victim said that Bondi returned to the store to talk to her. The two made-up based on court documents. Bondi proceeded to stay in the store for more than an hour. The victim then says that she told Bondi to leave as the store was closing. The victim says that Bondi then walked out of the store with unpaid merchandise. Bondi said that she accidentally walked out with a book in hand. The victim followed Bondi out of the store and retrieved the merchandise, according to court documents. The victim says that she told Bondi she was not allowed to return to the property. Police were not called for either of the two previous altercations. On April 7, Bondi reportedly returned to the store to retrieve items that she had stored under a carport. According to documents, the victim knew that Bondi had personal effects at the property and that she had been given permission to store the items there by another individual. According to the victim, she immediately went outside to confront Bondi. When the alleged victim went under the carport where Bondi was, she claims she was hit over the head with a metal pipe. Bondi admits to holding a metal pipe above her head and swinging, but did not know that she hit the victim. The two then fought, according to court records. The victim said that she was able to get away from Bondi and was going to call the police. Bondi claims that the victim was punching her and that she was curled up on the ground to protect herself. Police noted that the victim had a cut on her forehead and blood running down her face when they arrived at the store. Bondi claimed to have pain in her elbow and head once police located her. Court documents state that the video surveillance does not show the altercation as the individuals were out of view. Bondi left the scene when the victim called the police, according to the affidavit. She was arrested once officers were able to locate her. Bondi was arrested for aggravated assault and she was trespassed from the property. Upon booking, it is noted in court documents that Bondi had a blood alcohol content of 0.03%, which is below the legal limit in Wyoming. TRINIDAD Petroleum Holdings Limited (TPHL) has put the matter of Patriotic Energy Services Company Limited submitting allegedly fraudulent documents in its bid to acquire the former Petrotrin refinery in the hands of its legal team. The claim, first made by Energy Minister Stuart Young during the budget debate last Friday, was again denied yesterday by Oilfields Workers Trade Union (OWTU) president Ancel Roget. TPHL stated in a media release yesterday that it had received a document submitted by Patriotic Energies in its non-binding offer for the refinery, which specifically identified as evidence a wire transfer of US$1.5 billion into a local bank, and which document identified Patriotic Energies as the beneficiary. Josie Norris is a photographer for the San Antonio Express-News. Since joining the staff in 2021, Josie has been searching for great light and new angles. Experience includes The Tennessean and internships at The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The San Antonio Express-News, The Tennessean, and MLive.com/The Saginaw News. They are a graduate of Central Michigan University where they studied journalism and cultural studies and holds an associate degree in journalism from Delta College. Josie is drawn to stories centering on identity and belonging. The prevalence of bullying in our school system has become a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Too many students face harassment and intimidation from their peers, which can have severe emotional and psychological impacts. This toxic environment not only affects the victims but also creates an atmosphere of fear that hinders the overall learning experience for all students. Reducing gun violence in Tucson will be the focus of a community dialogue, hosted by the University of Arizonas School of Government and Public Policy on Wednesday, July 31. The event is a collaboration between the University of Arizona, Tucson Police Department and the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation. Community members 18 and up are encouraged to attend and learn more about gun violence, offer their suggestions for reducing it, and stay informed about the findings at the conclusion of the grant-related work, says a news release. We believe that community input is crucial in addressing the issue of gun violence, said UA assistant professor Seung-Ho An in a release. This event will provide a platform for community members to voice their opinions, share experiences, and contribute to a safer Tucson. The community event is part of a project funded by a $2 million grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance from 2022. The project, Barrios Seguros/Safe Neighborhoods: An Inclusive Approach to Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention, is meant to expand and enhance TPDs community violence intervention efforts, according to the BJAs award description. Seung-Ho An says that researchers will examine the attitudes and behaviors the community shows towards gun-related issues at the upcoming event to better facilitate community focus groups in the future. He says their findings will help TPD work towards a solution to reduce gun violence, something thats decreasing in the city according to TPD. In 2022, TPD investigated 141 non-fatal shootings; in 2023, we saw a reduction of 125 non-fatal shootings, TPD officials wrote in an email. We hope to continue this positive trend through collaborative efforts with our community partners. Data was not available on the number of fatal shootings. The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Sentinel Building, 320 N. Commerce Park Loop. Light snacks and water will be provided Those interested can sign up at tucne.ws/1qed. Attendees are asked to arrive early to read and sign a consent form. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: For years, Childrens Advocacy Centers (CACs) have been crucial for children and their families in the aftermath of violent crimes, sexual assaults and domestic abuse. In some of their toughest moments, the centers offer solace and support. CACs are instrumental in helping millions of victims navigate the harrowing journey toward recovery and justice. But now, their services are in jeopardy. Budget cuts loom, and the threat of shutdown is real. As the Executive Director of the Arizona Child & Family Advocacy Network (ACFAN), my mission is to ensure that victims who seek out our centers are not further victimized by the system designed to protect them. Instead of leaving child victims to shoulder the overwhelming burden of seeking justice on their own, our victim services professionals step in to help carry the load and give them the support they need. The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), and through it, the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), has assisted CACs in their crucial work for decades. Unlike taxpayer-funded initiatives, VOCA provides a sustainable federal funding source that bolsters numerous service providers dedicated to aiding millions of crime victims each year. Through this critical support, countless children and their families have found solace during their most difficult moments. CACs are ceaseless advocates for crime victims, dedicated to ensuring they receive the necessary time and resources to heal and rebuild their lives. This year, VOCA grants saw a $600 million cut. Across the board, the nations nearly 1,000 CACs are being forced to consider making cuts or shutting their doors. For us, a cut this drastic to VOCA means that and more. Arizona has seen a decrease in VOCA funding every year, shrinking from $70.8 million in 2018 to $48 million in 2019 and to $31 million in 2022. Recently, Arizona officially backfilled the $22.3 million needed for our states CACs. Even with this positive development, we still need to focus on securing permanent funds at the federal level to avoid drastic cuts and find sustainable solutions for the countless CACs that are facing the federal cuts head-on. VOCA cuts will leave thousands without essential services such as shelter, victim advocacy, helplines, legal services, and housing. These survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse will not have the same access to services or the support from our CACs that we have provided for decades. In the worst cases, six to ten programs in Arizona are expected to fully close their doors, leaving those communities entirely without any source for vital victim support services. Those who do stay open will be forced to operate with significantly reduced staff and services, stretching whats left of resources in the wake of these cuts thinner than they ever have been before. At the end of the day, VOCA cuts mean that child victims will have to carry the trauma of their abuse alone. Before addressing long-term reform in CVF funding, we must stop the bleeding from cuts that directly impact victims and survivors. That is exactly what Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) proposes with the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2024. This bill is intended to maintain current service levels and provide more time for the CVF to close the funding gap. But most importantly, it will allow CACs to continue operations at the highest level. To end the programs for these young crime victims would be to abandon them. For many of the people we serve, this is only the start of the obstacles to come. We owe crime victims more than that. I urge lawmakers to pass the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2024, address the pressing emergency funding shortfall and enable us to provide the long-term care survivors across Arizona desperately need. The Bexar County Medical Examiner's office identified a 17-year-old shot and killed Friday during a dispute on the Southeast Side. kali9/Getty Images/iStockphoto The Bexar County Medical Examiners Office identified a teen who was shot and killed during a dispute on the Southeast Side. Geoffrey Roland Shafer, 17, was fatally shot around 7 p.m. Friday in the 900 block of East Dulling Court near Interstate 37. The medical examiners office ruled Shafers death a homicide. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When officers arrived at the scene, they found Shafer with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police believe Shafer met up with another person and a dispute occurred. The person then shot the teen and fled. Tuna exports from Vietnam have surged dramatically in the first half of this year, particularly to the Spanish market, according to the most recent report from the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP). In May, tuna exports surged 182 percent compared to the same month last year, reaching a total of US$1.8 million, significantly surpassing the figures from 2022, according to the VASEP report. The most often exported tuna items are flesh, frozen tuna loin (the thickest section of the tuna fish, located along its back), and frozen steaming tuna. "If South Korea was the country that imported the most Vietnamese tuna at the beginning of last year, Spain now holds that position," stated a seafood exporter from the south-central province of Binh Dinh. According to the enterprise's explanation, Spain's inconsistent tuna fish catch because of reduced fishing resources is forcing the European country to import more tuna from other countries, particularly Vietnam. Furthermore, Vietnamese businesses can directly purchase tuna as raw materials from foreign fishing ships on international high seas, allowing them to lower the costs of their final products. This competitive edge is attractive to the Spanish market as well. "This is a decisive factor in global competitive capability in the tuna industry, and not many countries can do as well as Vietnam," a spokesperson from the seafood exporter told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. However, according to the spokesperson, when entering the Spanish market, Vietnamese tuna will face stiff competition from tuna imported from Ecuador, China, and the Philippines. "The countries have an advantage over us in terms of fishing fleets, as well as raw material supply sources. However, Vietnam is the most preferred destination for tuna provision due to our production capability and technology," said the spokesperson, adding that Vietnam's simple and flexible policy for importing raw materials in the tuna industry is another attractive feature to major suppliers. Pham Thanh Nam, from an intermediary firm specializing in procuring seafood for export in the northern coastal city of Hai Phong, stated that Vietnam's tuna processing facilities utilize cutting-edge technology and equipment, along with extensive sales expertise and skills. Nam underscored that the raw material market is crucial to the development of the tuna sector, a field in which Vietnam is increasingly active. "The supply chain of tuna materials in the Southeast Asian region has transitioned to Vietnam instead of just to Thailand like in the past," he said. "So, it would be understandable for Spain or any other countries to import much more tuna from Vietnam." VASEP reported that Vietnam's overall tuna export value exceeded $1 billion for the first time in 2022. Ten years ago, Vietnam ranked eighth among the world's tuna-exporting countries. By 2023, it had risen to the fifth-largest exporter by value, following Thailand, Ecuador, Spain, and China. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the total value of seafood exports in the first six months of 2024 surpassed $4.4 billion, an increase of over seven percent year-on-year. The seafood export sector experienced notable growth in the first half of the year, including an almost-25-percent increase in tuna export value, reaching $477 million. Vietnamese tuna exports to Spain fluctuated frequently. However, except for January-February 2024, the situation has improved, with steady increases since March. The cumulative value of tuna exports for the first five months of this year exceeded $5 million, a 32-percent rise over the previous year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! All customers who buy BYD electric vehicles at Bitcar, the largest dealership for BYD in Vietnam, will be eligible for free charging at its showrooms from now until the end of 2024, a representative of the Chinese auto brand told an inauguration ceremony for a BYD Bitcar showroom in Hanoi on Saturday. Other local dealers have not issued any announcement about a free charging program. Each Bitcar showroom is equipped with two EV fast-charge stations at 60 kW and 120 kW, along with a seven-kW charger. Customers can visit Bitcar showrooms round the clock to charge their BYD cars, said a representative of Bitcar. Charging stations operate round the clock at the BYD Bitcar showrooms in Vietnam. Photo: Duy Khanh / Tuoi Tre Bitcar is running showrooms in Long Bien District under Hanoi, Bac Giang Province, Quang Ninh Province, and Thanh Hoa Province. As these Bitcar showrooms are located in the northern region, owners of BYD cars in the central and southern regions can charge their vehicles either at home or at charging stations managed by other providers such as EV One and EverCharge. A map details EV One running multiple charging points (in green) in Vietnam. Photo: EV One EV One operates multiple charging stations across the country, including two locations in Hanoi, where the fee is VND9,900 (US$0.4) per kWh. In contrast, EverCharge charges VND4,000 (US$0.15) per kWh at the Duy Tan charging station in Hanoi. However, at the Thanh Tri charging point in the capital, the fee is set at VND8,000 ($0.3) per kWh. Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is dominating the charging infrastructure system in the nation, but it has yet to plan to share the charging network with other brands. Therefore, BYD Vietnam should soon adopt appropriate measures for charging to fulfill its target of opening 100 dealerships in the local market. Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD is supplying three electric car models to Vietnam, including the Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal. BYD Vietnam aims to develop a system of 50 dealerships by the end of 2024. Photo: Linh Dan / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken have pledged to expand cooperation in trade, investment, semiconductor technology, and human resources training, among other fields, toward celebrating 30 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries next year. The two sides made the pledge at their meeting in Hanoi on Saturday, when Secretary Blinken, on behalf of U.S. President Joe Biden and the U.S. administration, arrived to offer condolences to the government and people of Vietnam over the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. The Party chief passed away in Hanoi on July 19 at the age of 80. Expressing heartfelt thanks to Secretary Blinken and President Biden for their condolences, PM Chinh affirmed that the Vietnam-U.S. relations have entered a significant new phase of development thanks to the strategic vision and sound leadership of both General Secretary Trong and President Biden. Secretary Blinken expressed pleasure at the positive results achieved after nearly a year of implementing the two nations comprehensive strategic partnership, commenting that the active performance of the Vietnam-U.S. Joint Declaration and Action Plan in 2023 has brought benefits to both sides, the Vietnam News Agency reported. As they look forward to the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations in 2025, both the host and guest emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation, particularly in economics, trade, investment, the high-tech sector, the semiconductor industry, and training for high-quality human resources. Emphasizing the necessity for increased collaboration in addressing the aftermath of war, PM Chinh urged the U.S. to accelerate demining efforts, clear unexploded ordnance, decontaminate dioxin hotspots, and provide support for Vietnamese individuals disabled as a result of the war. The Vietnamese government leader told Secretary Blinken that Vietnam is committed to fully and effectively coordinating with the U.S. in search of American servicemen missing in action (MIA) during the war in Vietnam. While discussing international and regional issues of mutual interest, PM Chinh highly appreciated Washington's comprehensive and responsible cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. He also praised the U.S.'s continued support for ASEANs central role as well as for the bloc and Vietnam's stance on the East Vietnam Sea issue. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed Washington's support for a strong, independent, resilient, and prosperous Vietnam that expands international integration, plays an increasingly important role in ASEAN and the region, and significantly joins international cooperation in addressing global challenges. Vietnam and the U.S. normalized their diplomatic relations in July 1995 and entered into a comprehensive partnership in July 2013. Ten years later, both sides lifted their ties directly to a comprehensive strategic partnership on September 10, 2023, skipping the strategic partnership level, during U.S. President Biden's two-day official visit to Vietnam. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! As many as 32 earthquakes have shaken Kon Plong, a district in Vietnams Central Highlands, over the past 24 hours, according to the Institute of Geophysics. Since the early hours of Monday morning, the upland district in Kon Tum Province has been rocked by 11 quakes, the institute said, elaborating that the 10th one took place at 6:56 am at a depth of some 8.1 kilometers and measured 2.6 on the Richter scale. The district was jolted by up to 21 quakes on Sunday, including a magnitude-five one which occurred around noon and caused vibrations in many neighboring provinces and cities such as Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Hue, Da Nang, and Quang Nam in central Vietnam. Authorities said that this magnitude-five quake posed a level-two disaster risk, with multiple houses near the quakes epicenter in Kon Plong suffering cracks due to shaking. The quake, which struck at 11:35 am at a depth of 8.1 kilometers, was also felt in Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani and Sakon Nakhon Provinces. A map detailing the location of the epicenter (red star) of a recent earthquake in Kon Plong District, Kon Tum Province, Vietnam, July 29, 2024. Photo: Institute of Geophysics The Institute of Geophysics explained that the magnitude-five quake was induced by human activity. The agency also noted that the frequency of quakes in the province showed no signs of decreasing. Its Vietnam Earthquake Information and Tsunami Warning Center is closely monitoring these tremors. The institute is operating 11 monitoring stations in Kon Tum and undertaking in-depth research to assess seismic activity in this upland province. In Vietnam, tremors with magnitudes ranging from five to 5.9 are assessed as moderate and capable of causing minor to moderate damage. Meanwhile, quakes with magnitude-4 to -4.9 are deemed small tremors. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Read what is in the news in Vietnam today: Society -- Residents of Ubon Ratchathani and Sakon Nakhon Provinces in northeastern Thailand on Sunday experienced tremors from magnitude-5 and -4.1 earthquakes that struck Kon Plong District in Kon Tum Province, Vietnam, located approximately 360km and 530km to their southeast, respectively. -- From noon to 8:00 pm on Sunday, Kon Plong District in Kon Tum Province experienced 13 additional minor earthquakes, according to the Institute of Geophysics. -- Due to continuous heavy rains in the upstream areas, the water levels of the Dong Nai and La Nga Rivers are high, prompting the Southern Hydrometeorological Station to warn of a potential flooding risk in these rivers. -- Vietnam has recorded 41,905 cases of dengue fever and five deaths since the beginning of the year, marking a 1.2-fold decrease in cases and six fewer deaths compared to the same period in 2023, although the case count is showing signs of increasing, according to the Ministry of Health. -- A pickup truck crossed the tracks despite closed barriers and an approaching train, leading to the deaths of two people and injuries to three others in Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam, on Sunday night. -- Forty-eight tourists had been hospitalized with suspected food poisoning as of Sunday morning after attending a buffet at a resort in Mui Ne Ward, Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province, south-central Vietnam. -- Last weekend, a 20-meter-long crack appeared on the newly revamped road surface of Prenn Pass in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Central Highlands, following prolonged rain. The crack continues to spread. Business -- State-owned lender Vietcombank has appointed Nguyen Thanh Tung as chairman of the board of directors for the 2023-28 term. Lifestyle -- The Peoples Committee of Cam Ranh City in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam held a press conference on Sunday to announce the 2024 Lobster Festival, scheduled to take place from August 3 to 11, featuring 120 lobster-based dishes for the first time. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Many streets and houses in two suburban districts in Hanoi, including Chuong My and Quoc Oai, were submerged under up to two meters of water on Monday though there have been no heavy rains over the past two days. The water of the Bui River spilled over a dike road in Tan Tien and Nam Phuong Tien Communes of Chuong My, leading to the serious inundation in the area, according to the observation of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters. In Nhan Ly Hamlet, Nam Phuong Tien Commune, residents used boats to commute as some roads were submerged under up to two meters of water. Phung Xuan Luc, head of the hamlet, reported that 300 out of 320 households in Nam Phuong Tien Commune had their homes flooded. Meanwhile, the elderly and children in Nhan Ly Hamlet were evacuated to safer locations. "The inundation has disrupted residents' lives and damaged their farming areas," Luc said. Many houses in Hanois outlying district of Chuong My are inundated at the moment. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre The latest rain in the capital was reported on Saturday evening, with rainfall ranging from 30 mm to 150 mm, according to the Hanoi Sewerage and Drainage Company. The outlying district of Quoc Oai experienced approximately 78 mm of precipitation, while Chuong My District has recorded no rain over the past four days. However, many parts of Chuong My District remain flooded. The inundation was caused by water spilling from the Bui River through a dike into residents houses following heavy downpours on July 23 and 24. Rains and floods have damaged 601 meters of canals, inundated over 5,500 meters of dikes in 11 communes in Chuong My District, and turned several streets and roads into rivers, according to the district's steering committee for natural disaster prevention and search and rescue. The floods submerged approximately 1,240 houses under up to two meters of water, destroyed vast cultivation areas, and affected hundreds of thousands of farm animals. Residents in Quoc Oai District faced similar conditions due to the heavy rains. Pham Quang Tuan, deputy chairman of Quoc Oai District, stated that the suburban district was providing food and clean water to the flooded households. A flooded house in Nhan Ly Hamlet, Nam Phuong Tien Commune, Chuong My District, Hanoi. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre A man wades through a heavily-flooded street in suburban Hanoi. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre Heavy flooding turns the daily life of residents in Hanois suburban districts upside down. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre Drinking water supplied to flood-hit households in Hanois suburban districts. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre Residents use boats for commuting due to flooding in suburban Hanoi. Photo: Quang Vien / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The aviation authority of Vietnam has imposed a 12-month flight ban on a passenger who uttered the word grenade aboard a Vietnam Airlines flight one week ago. The passenger, identified as 36-year-old Nguyen Thanh Ph. hailing from Ho Chi Minh Citys Nha Be District, will be banned from flying from July 30 this year to July 29 next year, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV). As his in-flight grenade claim affected civil aviation operations, the passenger is also subject to mandatory visual inspection when flying over a course of six months from July 30, 2025 to January 29, 2026. The CAAV asked local and foreign carriers with flights departing from Vietnamese airports not to transport this passenger during the said period. Management authorities of airports nationwide must check personal documents of passengers to timely prevent Nguyen Thanh Ph. from flying when the ban is in place, the national aviation authority added. Previously, the passenger made the grenade claim on the Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City flight VN 131, initially scheduled to take off at 3:25 pm on July 21. After the passenger uttered the phrase 'grenade in the suitcase,' a crew member immediately alerted the airports aviation security center at 3:15 pm. A team of airport agencies rushed to the scene to get the passengers deplaned and conduct a thorough search of the aircraft as well as all of the passengers baggage from 4:10 pm to 4:40 pm, but they did not find any suspicious objects. At around 4:45 pm, the Middle Airports Authority agreed with a representative of Vietnam Airlines on allowing the passengers to return to the plane. The flight departed at 5:15 pm the same day. Meanwhile, Nguyen Thanh Ph. was handed over to the Middle Airports Authority for further steps. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Melissa Manno is a reporter covering education for the San Antonio Express-News. She can be reached at melissa.manno@express-news.net. She graduated from Penn State University in 2022 with a bachelors degree in journalism and minors in geography and digital media trends and analytics. She is also the 2021 Hearst National Journalism Writing Champion. Visitors can enjoy free admission to the Hai Van Gate relic site, located atop Hai Van Pass, which connects Da Nang City and Thua Thien-Hue Province in central Vietnam, from August 1. Hoang Viet Trung, director of the Hue Monuments Conservation Center, said on Monday that Hai Van Gate, dubbed 'Worlds Most Marvelous Wonder,' would reopen to tourists on August 1 after an over-two-year makeover. The center is focusing on taking care of the landscape of the relic site to welcome back the first visitors in early August. Hai Van Gate is the only national relic site managed by two localities: Thua Thien-Hue Province and Da Nang City. The site was constructed in 1826 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). In late 2021, the administrations of the two localities reached a consensus on spending VND42 billion (US$1.6 million) rehabilitating the relic site due to its serious deterioration, leading to Hai Van Gates closure to visitors. Trung said that Hai Van Gate would offer free admission to tourists in the initial stage until the Thua Thien-Hue Peoples Council makes a decision on entry fees. Situated nearly 500 meters above sea level, Hai Van Gate boasts various profound historical, architectural, and artistic values. Apart from Hai Van Gate, the An Mausoleum relic site, the burial place of Emperor Duc Duc of the Nguyen Dynasty, located on Duy Tan Street in Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, will also reopen its doors to tourists for free on August 1 after its restoration. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Hamaad Habibullah & Anamika Yadav TwoCircles.net Samarlin Agriya, a young Adivasi woman from the Baiga tribe, received her first tattoo at the age of 10. I was scared of getting inked, she recalled, describing her experience of having tattoos placed on her forehead, hands, back and other parts of her body. Despite her initial fear, she worries that the tradition of tattooing may soon disappear as younger generations show less interest in this cultural practice. Support TwoCircles Godna, the traditional art form of full-body tattooing among the Baiga tribe, has long been a cornerstone of their cultural heritage. Characterized by intricate and symbolic designs, these tattoos are not merely decorative but carry deep cultural, historical and mythological significance. Passed down through centuries, Godna serves as a means of self-expression and identity for Baiga women. The Baigas, a semi-nomadic ethnic group residing in the forested regions of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, are recognized as one of Indias 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups. Paoni Patidar, a development practitioner with experience working with various Indian tribes, explains the significance of the art form: Material possessions like jewelry or clothing dont accompany us in death, but tattoos remain with us and are believed to be carried into the next life. However, the tradition of Godna is waning among younger Baiga women. Many are reluctant to endure the pain of getting these tattoos, questioning their relevance in a rapidly changing world. Samarlin Agriya notes, Young girls now ask, Whats the purpose? Why do we need it? Sakal Ram, a Baiga man in his mid-forties, laments the loss of this integral aspect of his tribes identity. The young girls no longer want Godna. They say it doesnt look good. If this trend continues, the Baiga identity and pride may vanish, he warns. The shift in attitude towards Godna is largely attributed to increasing assimilation with the outside world. Dileshwari, a young Baiga mother with extensive tattoos, observes, The significance of Godna has diminished. Exposure to external influences has altered preferences in clothing and accessories. Ram Phool, another Baiga woman, echoes this sentiment, stating, The younger generation is influenced by urban culture. Their clothing and jewelry have changed, and there is little left of traditional Baiga customs. Modern beauty standards and interactions with broader society have also impacted young Baiga womens perceptions of Godna. Rajmati, an older Baiga woman adorned with tattoos, explains, The young girls believe Godna doesnt look good anymore. Its a traditional practice, but theyre not interested. Additionally, the visible tattoos often lead to discrimination outside their community. Chari Bai Lohar, a Baiga woman, points out that school-going girls face peer pressure and ridicule for their tattoos, which creates a reluctance to continue the tradition. Young Baiga girls attending schools outside their tribe feel uncomfortable and different due to their tattoos, which exacerbates their desire to conform to modern standards and blend in with their peers. Historically, Baiga girls began receiving tattoos around the age of 10-12, starting with their heads and hands, and continuing with their backs after marriage. Biresiya, a Baiga woman with Godna, explains, In the past, girls who didnt have Godna werent considered true Baigas and were often not accepted for marriage. Girls today, however, seem to reject this practice. Commenting on the decline of Godna among young Baiga women, an observer noted, Each tribal communitys identity is expressed through the designs of Godna, but the influence of urban society has led to a devaluation of these practices, making individuals feel inferior about their own traditions. Jemreen, a young Baiga girl who has not yet undergone Godna, sums up the current sentiment: It hurts, and I dont like it. Im scared of it. The fading tradition of Godna reflects the broader challenges faced by indigenous cultures in preserving their heritage amidst rapid modernization and changing societal norms. Palestinians are Humans, Not Numbers Israeli occupation army drags out Palestinians out of their homes and get them demolished. There is no concept of Justice in Palestine anymore. Its just that might is right and thats what they are doing Monday July 29, 2024 5:00 PM , Raqif Makhdoomi Scrolling social media platform X, formally Twitter, you need enough courage to hold back your tears. Generally only chopping onions used to make tears roll down even when you dont want to. But, nowadays same happens while you scroll X. If I speak about myself, I get into a state of deep trauma seeing half torn bodies of children as young as seven or eight months. I feel like all hells have broken loose. I see wailing grandfathers, wailing grandmothers wailing mothers, wailing fathers, wailing children, wailing aunties, wailing uncles, wailing cousins, wailing best friends, wailing friends, wailing wives, wailing husbands, and in all wailing Palestine. While I am writing this article, I cant fight back my tears. Its really hard to see young children running for food who should have been running to schools. Its really hard to see mothers and fathers carrying their children to graveyards who should have been carrying them to nurseries. Its really hard to see a best friend carrying coffin of his best friend on his shoulder when he should have had his arm around his neck and both should have had been talking about their dreams. Life in Palestine isnt life. Its a real struggle. My hands are trembling and my eyes are full of tears and my mind is blank. For, as I write this article, I have gone through whats happening in Palestine. The situation is really terrible. People are short of food. They are suffering from malnutrition. Pregnant women are delivering babies in refuge camps. Injured people are lying on hospital floor. The beds are already full. The people who are being brought to hospitals are being brought in very brutal condition and they need very intensive care but hospitals are lacking the medicines and the necessary equipment. The half burned bodies of young children lying on the floor of hospital make my heart come out of my mouth. I feel like screaming and punching the ball. I get a very harsh anxiety attack seeing such miserable condition of the children of Palestinian kids. I remember seeing a video where a best friend was ringing his best friend so that they could locate him under the rubble. He was shaking and why shouldnt he be. I dont think anyone can ever imagine taking his best friend out of rubble and he coming out dead. You are able to do nothing just nothing. Imagine the condition of the boy. Just be at his position and imagine the situation. Israel is targeting civilian areas and is naming it self defence. They have not been able to kill a single Hamas soldier by targeting the innocent civilians. Their hidden intention day after day are getting clearer to the world. And almost all the countries are in support of Palestine except few. Many counties have recognized Palestine as sovereign state. Many countries have announced to cut off all the ties with Israel. An Israeli minister called people of Palestine worst than animals and said, We are dealing with them the way they are. The minster couldnt hide his hate for the Palestinian even during a press brief. Their army officers whose consciousness dont allow them to act zombies with people of Palestine, expose them in interviews. In an interview, an army officer nuked the policy of Israel against the Palestinians. Israeli occupation army drag out Palestinians out of their homes and get them demolished. There is no concept of Justice in Palestine anymore. Its just that might is right and thats what they are doing. Also Read: Gaza Taught Me to Trust Nothing You must be thinking why isnt the writer giving figures of the people killed, houses demolished, people wounded, people suffering from malnutrition, how many missiles has Israel fired into Palestine, how many people are admitted in hospital, how many died due to lack of insufficient media care and how many people have been arrested. The mistake that we have been doing since the beginning of the conflict is that we have been counting numbers. Every single death should shake us up. Mark this. Israel kills one child in Palestine every two days. Now count from October 7 till date. But wait. This didnt begin on October 7, 2023. The conflict is in fact 75 years old. Now count the days and count how many children have people of Palestine lost. They arent numbers. They are humans just like you and I are. Their children are children just like yours are. Their families are families just like yours are. Dont count them as numbers, count them as humans like you and I are. Recently, International Court of Justice (ICJ) has made all things clear. They have categorically called Israel aggressor and Palestine aggressed, and its occupation of Palestine illegal. Remember what the USA and allies did to Iraq just because, according to them, it had broken a single United Nations resolution? While Israel has violated all the declarations of the United Nations, and also the Geneva Convention. But it is being supported by the same United States of America and its allies that pressurized the United Nations to call for action against Iraq. They destroyed a country just because they claimed it had weapons of mass destruction , the weapons that were never found. But, Israel, which actually has, and is using the weapons of mass destruction, is free and is being supported by the USA. The world must remember. No terrorism and no terrorist. No case of human rights violation. It has always been Americas own interests for which it had attacked so many countries, killing hundreds of civilians. The USA is doing just the same in Gaza. [The writer, Raqif Makhdoomi, is a student of law and human rights defender. Views expressed are his own.] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. US, Japan up the ante in the Pacific In a sweeping step to modernise their alliance in the face of mounting security threats in Asia, particularly the South China Sea, US and Japan have announced plans to further the bilateral military cooperation Monday July 29, 2024 2:30 PM , Asad Mirza In a sweeping step to modernise their alliance in the face of mounting security threats in Asia, particularly the South China Sea, US and Japan have announced plans to further the bilateral military cooperation. The United States has announced that it will overhaul its military forces in Japan as the two countries move to deepen defence cooperation, Washington and Tokyo said Sunday, 28 July 2024. The announcement comes in the background of increased Chines belligerence in the South China Sea (SCS) and asserting territorial claims in the SCS, while North Korea continues its illegal weapons programme while both strengthen ties with Russia as it wages war in Ukraine. The new US-Jap plans were announced by the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and their Japanese counterparts Minoru Kihara and Yoko Kamikawa after a meeting in Tokyo, where they also called Chinas political, economic, and military coercion the greatest strategic challenge in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Undeniably, the latest American move is likely to fuel the ire of Beijing, which has watched warily as the US has bolstered ties with regional allies in a region, where observers say China seeks to be the dominant power and where it accuses the US of fostering a Cold War-style bloc mentality. Under the new plan, US forces in Japan would be reconstituted as a joint force headquarters reporting to the Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command to facilitate deeper interoperability and cooperation on joint bilateral operations in peacetime and during contingencies, according to the statement. In a press conference following the meeting, Austin hailed the countries move to modernise their alliance command and control as an historic decision. This will be the most significant change to US Forces Japan since its creation, and one of the strongest improvements in our military ties with Japan in 70 years, Austin said. He pointed both to the upgrade of US Forces in Japan with expanded missions and operational responsibilities, and Japans new Joint Operations Command, saying that the countries were reinforcing their combined ability to deter and respond to coercive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Behind the scenes activities between the top officials of the two countries were on, since the April summit in Washington between US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, where the two vowed to upgrade their respective command-and-control framework to strengthen deterrence and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific in the face of pressing regional security challenges. However, the US maintains that it has no plans to integrate Japanese forces into the US commands. At present, US Forces Japan (USFJ), is headquarter at Yokota Air Base, and consists of approximately 54,000 military personnel stationed in Japan under a 1960 mutual cooperation and security treaty. The expected reconfiguration comes as Japan shifts its defence posture, veering away from the pacifist constitution imposed on it by the United States in the aftermath of World War II, with a plan to boost defence spending to about 2% of its GDP by 2027 and acquire counter strike capabilities. These moves have cemented Japans centrality to Washingtons regional security strategy and its push for increased coordination with allies and partners amid rising regional tensions and as the US increasingly sees security in Europe and Asia as intertwined in the wake of the war in Ukraine. The tensions in the region are not just confined to the SCS, but Chinese activities in the East China Sea, Chinese support to Russia in its war against Ukraine, Russias support to the N Korean missile programme and the issue of Taiwans independence, all add up to the American worries for the region, and its plans for the Pacific and the Indo-Pacific, both. The latest move is being seen in the backdrop of these regional flashpoints and the American response to them, besides containing China. In diplomatic language China was repeatedly mentioned in the joint statement, as the ministers outlined shared concerns including what they described as Beijings intensifying attempts to unilaterally change the status quo, in the East China Sea, its threatening and provocative activities in the South China Sea, and its support for Russias defence industrial base. Western leaders have accused Beijing of enabling Moscows war in Ukraine through the provision of dual-use goods, a charge Beijing denies. However, countering concerns about the new Command structure, based on any Chinese worries, Austin said: Its based on our desire and our ability to work closer together and to be more effective. The ministers also said Taiwans political transition period should not be used as a pretext for provocative actions across the Taiwan Strait. In the statement, the ministers also condemned North Koreas missile testing and nuclear weapons programmes, condemning deepening Russia-North Korea cooperation, including Russias procurement of ballistic missiles and other materiel from North Korea for use in Ukraine. Before the ministerial meeting on Sunday, the Defence chiefs from the United States, Japan and South Korea, met for the first time in Tokyo, which shows another sign of the tightening coordination of regional US allies. The Defence Chiefs meeting was preceded by a landmark summit between the three countries held by Biden at Camp David, last year. The increased trilateral coordination between the US, Japan and South Korea shows the real concern, shared by both Seoul and Tokyo both long-standing US allies as working to put aside historic animosity and mistrust to better address shared security threats. However, the reality is completely different. Americas allies in Asia have no mutual obligation to defend each other, as do members of NATO. Right now USFJ is mainly an administrative headquarters for units based in the country, and to liaise with the Japanese government. As the Financial Times puts it succinctly, conventionally America has seen its role as the spear that would take on Chinese forces, whereas the Japanese would act as the shield to defend its territory and American bases. Whether such a distinction can be maintained in an all-out war over Taiwan, or any Chinese attack against any regional country, or any big assault is doubtful. (The writer, Asad Mirza, is a Delhi-based senior political and international affairs commentator and a media consultant. The featured image showing the US and Japan national flags flying together is generated by AI.) Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. HA NOI Appropriate and timely trade measures, following Viet Nam's and World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations, will help the domestic steel industry minimise damage caused by unfair competition practices and protect local production, said industry leaders and experts. Earlier, the trade defence department, under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), said it had received the detailed request for an anti-dumping investigation on hot-rolled steel (HRC) originating from China. The documents have been put under review by the ministry before a decision can be made on whether to proceed with the investigation. Domestic steel makers said employing the right defence tools can help reduce difficulties and unfair competition and maintain production in the domestic industry. They claimed during the first six months of 2024, more than 5.9 million tonnes of hot rolled coils (HRC) were imported into Viet Nam, an increase of 32 per cent compared to the same period last year and 1.7 times the total local industry's output. Of these, HRC of Chinese origin accounted for nearly 74 per cent, with the average unit prices ranging from US$41 to $133 per tonne lower than those of other import markets. Trade defence measures including anti-dumping and anti-subsidy are tools the WTO allows member states to use in protecting their domestic industries. Countries have the right to increase import taxes or apply certain import restrictions without violating WTO commitments or free trade agreements (FTAs) if it is determined that the increase in imports is causing, or threatening to cause, harm to the domestic industry. Given the unprecedented difficult situation faced by the domestic steel industry, still in recovery after a bad year and the slow property market, the use of trade defence measures can provide domestic steel makers a lifeline, said Dr Hoang Ngoc Thuan from the Foreign Trade University. "If we apply trade defence measures at the right time, promptly, proactively and following the law, it will help domestic enterprises reduce competitive pressure from imported goods and avoid threats from unfair competition." Defence measures have been proven to be effective in the past. In 2017, the Southeast Asian country imposed an anti-dumping tax of 38.34 per cent on galvanized steel products imported from China and South Korea. After just a year of the tax, imports decreased from 19 million tonnes (2016) to 15 million tonnes (2017). Last month, the ministry said it had started an investigation into the dumping of galvanized steel products from China and South Korea again after domestic makers reported alleged dumping activities. Pham Chi Cuong, a former president of the Vietnam Steel Association (VSA) said in 2017, partly thanks to import taxes, the domestic galvanized steel industry developed rapidly, not only meeting domestic demand but also exporting to over 30 markets, including high-standard markets like the US and EU. He said failing to implement trade defence measures can result in domestic plants, which are extremely expensive to build, scaling down or shutting down. As major steel makers in the region including China, India, Japan and S Korea face excess production, dumping pressure is unlikely to ease soon. Meanwhile, domestic steel makers have been struggling on the export front, facing increasingly stringent technical and defence measures. By the end of May this year, around 84 trade investigations by foreign authorities had been launched against Vietnamese steel products. "We encourage the application of trade defence measures for domestic steel products that fully meet domestic demand. For products that do not yet meet demand and still depend on imports, the overall benefits need to be considered to make appropriate decisions," said Nguyen Thi Thu Trang, Director of the WTO and Integration Center from the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI). In the first six months of 2024, Viet Nam imported up to 8.12 million tonnes of various types of steel, worth $5.9 billion, increasing by 46.1 per cent and 24 per cent respectively compared to the same period. Steel product imports were valued at over $3 billion, up 23.7 per cent. Total steel and steel product import expenditures reached $8.9 billion. VNS Jeremy Wallace has covered politics and campaigns for more than 20 years. Before joining the Hearst Texas newspapers in 2017 he covered government and politics for the Tampa Bay Times, The Miami Herald and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Previously he covered Congress for the Boston Globe and Detroit Free-Press. Originally from San Antonio, he attended the University of North Texas and earned his bachelors degree from the University of Missouri. Jeremy also authors the Texas Take with Jeremy Wallace newsletter, where he shares insights from inside the Capitol along with the occasional Willie Nelson reference. You can sign up here. You can follow him on Twitter, @JeremySWallace, or email him at Jeremy.wallace@chron.com. HA NOI Viet Nam's shrimp exports grew in the first half of this year, but the market is facing competition from other countries in the world. According to the Viet Nam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), in the first six months of this year, the shrimp export value reached about US$1.6 billion, up six per cent year on year. In June alone, this value reached $344 million, an increase of five per cent on year. During the first half, mainland China and Hong Kong, the largest export market of Vietnamese shrimp, showed a recovery in shrimp exports in June, after decreasing in May. In the first half of the year, the shrimp exports to this market reached $328 million, 17 per cent higher than the same period last year. By the end of the year, Viet Nam's shrimp exports to this market will be under pressure on price, especially for black tiger shrimp and white-leg shrimp. Vietnamese shrimp competition from markets such as Ecuador, India and Indonesia that will be promoting shrimp export to China due to high tariffs imposed by the US. The second largest market for Vietnamese shrimp was the US. In the first half of the year, shrimp exports to this market grew one per cent year-on-year to $303 million. After decreasing in May, exports to the US recovered in June. But shipping costs have increased dramatically, up by 40 per cent from May due to conflict in the Middle East. In the US market too, Vietnamese shrimp has strong price competition from shrimp from Ecuador, India and Indonesia. VASEP expects that the US's demand for Vietnamese shrimp may increase slightly in the third quarter of this year when importers increase purchasing for year-end festivals. Meanwhile, Viet Nam saw a slight reduction of three per cent and ten per cent to $229 million in Japan and $149 million in South Korea, respectively. In Japan, Viet Nam's value-added goods still maintain a better competitive advantage compared to other suppliers such as India and Ecuador. According to VASEP, the import demand of these two markets is expected to increase slightly from September to meet the year-end demand. For the EU market, after a slow first quarter, the shrimp exports to increased solidly in the second quarter. In the first six months, exports to EU reached $217 million, an increase of 13 per cent on year. In June, this value stood at $52 million, up by 31 per cent. The EU market's demand for shrimp imports is expected to continue to increase in the second half. However, VASEP said that besides facing price competition with Ecuadorian and Indian shrimp in the US and EU, Vietnamese shrimp face an additional problem: disease outbreaks in farmed shrimp, potentially causing a shortage of raw materials for processing. Companies may be forced to reduce shrimp exports to the US although this market has a large consumption power. Meanwhile, they will focus on nearer markets such as Japan, South Korea, Australia and China. In the second half of the year, it is expected that the main import markets of Vietnamese shrimp will have better markers, such as lower inventory, easing of transportation difficulties and recovery in demand and prices. If all expectations follow a positive scenario, Viet Nam could achieve a shrimp export value of $4 billion in 2024, VASEP said. VNS HA NOI Some 80-90 per cent of banks have partially or fully applied ESG (Environment - Social - Governance) practices in their operations, a State Bank of Vietnam (SBV)s official said. At a forum on promoting ESG practices in the Vietnamese banking industry, Pham Thi Thanh Tung, Deputy Director of the SBVs Department of Credit for Economic Sectors, said nearly 50 per cent of banks have established a risk management division for environment protection lending. Some banks have also issued the Green Credit Framework and the Sustainable Loan Framework to provide procedures for using and managing loan capital for projects in green and emission-reducing sectors. Many banks have so far also published separate reports on sustainable development. As of March 31 this year, 47 banks had green outstanding loans of nearly VN640 trillion, accounting for about 4.6 per cent of the total outstanding loans. 34 banks reported that they conducted environmental and social risk assessments with outstanding loans of about VN2.9 quadrillion, accounting for nearly 21 per cent of the total outstanding loans. According to Tung, the results of the environmental risk assessment, according to the SBVs Circular 17/2022/TT-NHNN, show that most credit institutions have integrated environmental risk management into the credit granting and risk management process, with 35 credit institutions having issued separate environmental risk management regulations. Banks granted credit for 110,371 projects, which implemented environmental risk management, worth nearly VN991.38 trillion. Despite the achievements, Dr Pham Minh Tu, Deputy Director of the Banking Strategy Institute, said banks in Viet Nam are still in the early stages of implementing ESG practices, so there are still many challenges for them to catch up. There are currently no general national regulations on criteria and lists of green projects for sectors according to the economic sector classification system, which can be used as a basis for credit institutions to fully identify and count green credit resources. There is also a lack of specific regulations and instructions from specialised management agencies on ESG. The capital demand for implementing the National Green Growth Strategy is very large, while capital sources to support businesses and investors from the financial market and the carbon credit market are not yet developed or implemented, causing long-term capital pressure on the banking system. In addition, the management capacity and strategic vision on ESG of enterprises, especially SMEs, are major barriers, causing the process of transforming sustainable business models and practising ESG in Viet Nam to be difficult and affecting the efficiency of credit granting and risk management activities of credit institutions. Sharing their experiences of ESG, Jakub Kudrna, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of ESG Steering Group of finance company Home Credit Vietnam, said the important thing is that we cannot separately build the ESG implementation plan with the business strategy of the enterprise. Practising ESG must be an important part of the development strategy of the enterprise. No individual or enterprise can implement sustainable development, but all industries and enterprises need to work together to create a more cohesive and sustainable environment, said Kudrna. VNS HA NOI The Vietnamese Government has outlined a comprehensive action plan to continue fasttracking the country's industrialisation and modernisation by 2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2045. The plan, detailed in a newly issued resolution, sets targets across various economic sectors. To boost economic growth, the Government aims for an average GDP growth rate of around 7 per cent per year, lifting per capita income to approximately US$7,500 by 2030. A key focus is placed on reducing the agricultural workforce to less than 20 per cent of the total labour force. Viet Nam aspires to become among the top three industrial powerhouses in ASEAN, with the industrial sector contributing over 40 per cent to GDP. The manufacturing and processing sector is expected to account for around 30 per cent of GDP, with a strong emphasis on high-tech products aiming for over 45 per cent of the sector's value. To further drive the economy, the service sector is projected to contribute over 50 per cent to GDP, with tourism alone generating 14-15 per cent. The resolution calls for the establishment of large-scale, globally competitive corporations and the development of industrial clusters. It also urges mastering key industrial and agricultural value chains. To achieve these goals, the Government has ordered ministries, agencies, and local authorities to take a series of measures. These include fostering innovation, improving policies and institutions, building a robust and self-reliant domestic industry, and enhancing the construction sector's capabilities. Additional priorities outlined in the resolution are modernising agriculture and rural areas, further restructuring the service sector based on sci-tech and innovation, developing human capital, building modern infrastructure, and driving sustainable urbanisation. The Government also pledged to reform financial and credit policies, optimise resource management, protect the environment in adaptation to climate change, and deepen global integration while safeguarding the domestic market. Underscoring the importance of cultural identity, the resolution underlines preserving Vietnamese values and building a skilled workforce capable of leading the nation's industrialisation and modernisation while ensuring social welfare. VNS HA NOI Higher freight rates and charter rates are benefiting oil tanker shipping companies, allowing them to achieve positive business performance. In the second quarter of 2024,Pacific Petroleum Transportation JSC (PV Trans Pacific) reported net revenue of over VN359 billion (US$14.1 million), on par with the same period last year. Its profit after tax was recorded at over VN62 billion, an increase of 17.3 per cent year-on-year. For the first half of 2024, the company's profit after tax reached nearly VN109.3 billion, up 8.2 per cent over last year. PV Trans Pacific said that the gain in profit was due to favourable freight rates in the international market. The company also achieved significant cost savings for its fleet operations. Factors such as increased foreign exchange gains and decreased financial income also impacted the company's profitability, it added. Similarly, Vietnam Tanker JSC (Vitaco) recorded a consolidated profit after tax of VN24.58 billion, a strong increase of 313.54 per cent from the same period last year. Revenue was mainly derived from the provision of transportation services, accounting for over VN253 billion. Cumulatively in the first six months of 2024, Vitaco saw robust profit growth of nearly VN52.7 billion, an increase of 165 per cent year-on-year. According to Vitaco, the main reason for the company's strong increase in profit after tax during this period was the decrease in operating costs for transportation services as depreciation expenses for its ocean-going fleet were lower. Viet Nam Ocean Shipping JSC (Vosco) also posted positive growth in the first half of 2024, with profit after tax of over VN358 billion, more than four times higher than last year. In the second quarter only, Vosco's consolidated financial statements showed the company earned revenue of over VN1.8 trillion, a slight increase compared to the same period last year. Vosco's total profit before tax reached over VN344 billion, more than 50 times higher than the same period in 2023. As a result, the company reported a net profit of VN283.8 billion during the period, an increase of over 200 times from last year. Currently, Vosco operates a fleet across three main vessel segments - oil tankers, container ships and general cargo ships. The company's oil tanker operations are providing a major revenue stream. Bullish outlook International experts said that global geopolitical instability and the crisis in the Red Sea have led to changes in global maritime trade routes. Many ships have had to take a longer route around the Cape of Good Hope, resulting in longer transportation distances and higher freight rates. For oil tankers, the demand for both crude and refined product tankers has increased by 5.5 per cent and 4.5 per cent, respectively, so far this year, according to a report by Maritime Strategies International (MSI). Spot freight rates, time charter rates and secondhand vessel prices are all forecasted to increase. Data from the independent maritime research firm Drewry shows that over the past six months, the average one-year time charter rate for Aframax tankers (80,000-120,000 DWT) has increased from $41,700 per day to $44,300 per day. The three-year time charter rates for oil tankers have also risen, increasing from $30,400 per day of last year to $36,700 per day, reflecting the high demand. Current oil tanker freight rates have a stable to slightly downward trend due to a roughly 20 per cent decrease in Russia's oil production, HoanG uc Chinh, Director of PV Trans Pacific, told baogiaothong.vn. "In the third quarter, freight rates are expected to slightly lower, but are likely to rebound by the end of 2024. The current market fluctuations remain quite volatile, so any forecasts can only be made in the short term," Chinh noted. Despite these elevated asset prices, in the face of positive signals from the oil tanker market in the near term, many companies are still actively investing in and expanding their fleets to capitalise on emerging market opportunities and strengthen their shipping capabilities. For example, Vitaco is planning to aggressively search for and invest in a new sea-going vessel to replace the Petrolimex 08 vessel that has been sold, with a maximum investment value of $40 million. Meanwhile, PV Trans Pacific intends to increase its fleet. The company is considering its options and closely monitoring market developments to grow its fleet and expand its production and business scale in order to optimise investment efficiency and capital utilisation. VNS SINGAPORE Viet Nam continued to be the top source of rice in Singapore, with 73.4 million SGD (US$over 54.6 million) worth of rice shipment to the nation during January-June, a year-on-year surge of 54.67 per cent. Statistics from the Viet Nam Trade Office in Singapore showed that export turnover of glutinous rice to the city-state rose more than five fold to 8.9 million SGD, broken rice shot up 187.3 per cent to 1.5 million SGD, and milled or husked fragrant rice soared 161.35 per cent to 27.27 million SGD. Meanwhile, earnings from white rice witnessed a slight increase of 1.91 per cent to 34.5 million SGD, while revenue from regular brown rice fell 51.2 per cent to 102,000 SGD. Vietnamese rivals, Thailand and India, sold some 70.73 million SDG and 58.41 million SGD worth of rice to the nation. Singapores increasing rice import is attributable to Indias rice export ban, and the countrys tourism recovery. During the six-month span, it spent nearly 224.5 million SGD on rice purchase, up 13.62 per cent year-on-year. According to Vietnamese trade counseller Cao Xuan Thang, major competitors of Viet Nam in the Singaporean market, namely Thailand, India and Japan, have paid due attention to enhancing their product images, while Vietnamese firms have had no large-scale promotion campaign. He stressed that Vietnamese exporters must strive to improve their competitive edge as well as rice quality, given the strict management of the rice market by the Singaporean government. The signing of agreements and commitments at the governmental level regarding rice supply will contribute to stabilising Vietnamese rice shipment to Singapore, he suggested. In the first three months of this year, Viet Nam for the first time surpassed India and Thailand to become the largest rice exporter to Singapore by shipping 36.15 million SGD worth of rice, an increase of 80.46 per cent over the same period in 2023. VNS HA NOI About 25 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from South Korea will visit Viet Nam next month in the hope of furthering business ties. They will participate in the Donghaen Festival in Ha Noi next month, the first step of the South Korean Ministry of SMEs and Startups' globalisation strategy in Viet Nam to support its 1,000 domestic companies to become enterprises with strong export products. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups announced on Monday that a project called 'K-Innovation Mission' to encourage the smaller companies to innovate and export abroad has completed the process of selecting businesses to participate in the event in Viet Nam. Accordingly, the ministry has received a list of 125 companies registered to participate in the project. The companies that have registered to participate in the project are SMEs and joint ventures in promising sectors such as beauty, consumer goods manufacturing and software. The Donghaen Festival will be held in Ha Noi starting from August 28. Participating enterprises will be supported with many programmes such as connecting them with potential Vietnamese partners and consulting to enhance export efficiency. In particular, the government will allocate a budget to support enterprises in the fields of innovation and software to help them strengthen their export capacity. The 'K-Innovation Mission' project is a comprehensive package of measures to enhance the capacity of Korean SMEs and startups to increase their export capacity. The project receives advice from Korean embassies abroad as well as Korean public organisations. Enterprises will be provided with advice, information and be supported to resolve difficulties that small and medium-sized enterprises encounter when entering foreign markets. VNS HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang on Monday urged Chinese tyre maker Sailun Group to strengthen connection with and support Vietnamese enterprises to join its value chain and supply chain to promote sustainable development in Viet Nam. Receiving Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quangof the group and the Sailun Vietnam Ltd Company Liu Yan Hua in Ha Noi, Deputy PM Quang spoke highly of Sailun, one of the world's leading tire manufacturers, and its business results, human resources development, and social responsibility. The Vietnamese Government has assigned the Ministry of Science and Technology to coordinate with the Ministry of Planning and Investment to develop criteria for high-tech enterprises, Quang said, adding that he expects Sailun will continue applying the most advanced technologies to meet the criteria. For her part, Liu briefed the host on her group. Established in 2002, the group now has over 13,700 employees worldwide, with total assets of 26 billion CNY (US$3.58 billion) and annual revenue of 18 billion CNY. Sailun's products are present in 180 countries and regions. In Viet Nam, it has invested in building a factory to produce all tire lines of the group in the southern province of Tay Ninh, established a research and development (R&D) centre in HCM City, as well as a joint venture with Cooper Tires in 2019 with a total investment of about $1.5 billion. The Tay Ninh factory is currently the largest overseas production facility of Sailun group, creating 7,000 jobs. All of the latex supply to the factory is from Viet Nam. Meanwhile, the R&D centre in HCM City is also the largest of the group abroad. Liu expressed her gratitude to the Vietnamese Government and authorities at all levels for supporting and creating favourable conditions for the group to invest in Viet Nam from 2012. She said that the group will invest an additional $200 million in Viet Nam in the coming time. VNS HA NOI To promote coal import from Laos, corporations and coal-using firms need to actively negotiate with partners, and propose solutions removing existing obstacles in this import activity. Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien made these requests at a conference on promoting cooperation in purchasing coal with Laos held in Ha Noi last week. The conference attracted representatives of units under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT); the Viet Nam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (TKV); Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (PVN); Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN); ong Bac Corporation; and PetroVietnam Power Corporation (PV Power). Trinh uc Duy, deputy director of the MoIT's Department of Petroleum and Coal, said that implementing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the coal sector, signed between Viet Nam and Laos in July 2023, the MoIT has encouraged thermal power plant investors and coal suppliers to prioritise purchase of Lao coal for electricity production. According to Viet Nam's General Department of Customs, in 2023, Viet Nam imported about 2.2 million tonnes of coal from Laos with a value of about US$159 million. The import in the first six months of 2024 was about 1.17 million tonnes with a value of $75.8 million. However, Duy said, there are still many difficulties and challenges to achieve the goal set by the MoU of importing 20 million tonnes of coal from Laos to Viet Nam each year. The biggest obstacle is transportation of coal from Laos to Viet Nam on a road with a distance of more than 300km with disadvantages in terrain and weather factors. High transportation cost makes import price of imported coal from Laos up even though low purchase price at the mine. That leads to imported coal from Laos to not compete with domestically produced coal as well as coal imported from other markets such as Australia and Indonesia that are transported by sea. Other obstacles include the lack of a mechanism on signing directly long-term contracts of purchasing coal between Vietnamese State-owned corporations and coal mine owners in Laos, and limited customs clearance capacity in Laos. The Department of Oil, Gas and Coal proposes that coal production firms and coal mine owners in Laos need to have solutions to reduce costs, contributing to increasing competitiveness of coal imported from Laos against other markets. In addition, the Lao Government is studying spending money to upgrade roads transporting coal from Laos to Viet Nam and looking at supportive policies for exporting coal, including abolishment of 10-per-cent export tax on coal exported to Viet Nam. Meanwhile, Viet Nam needs also to upgrade the routes to synchronise with the upgraded route system in Laos, and promote building of conveyor belts for coal from Laos to Viet Nam, along with speeding up the construction of coal warehouses in the two countries to ensure the smooth transport of coal to Viet Nam. Dien said that promoting the cooperation in trading coal with Laos is very important to meet the demand of coal for electricity and production in Viet Nam, as well as to support Laos in overcoming the difficult economic period. On the occasion, the minister spoke highly of the corporations and companies for their efforts to import coal from Laos according to the Vietnam - Laos Intergovernmental Agreement. However, the coal import from Laos is still facing some problems, including uncompetitive import price; the unreasonable coal purchasing mechanism, no long-term coal trading mechanism; unsuitable quality; and unsynchronous warehouse systems between Viet Nam and Laos. To resolve the above difficulties, corporations and companies are requested to strengthen effective coordination and strictly implement the commitments in the signed contracts on purchasing coal for power production. Viet Nam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin) is asked to ensure stable supply of coal to consumers according to the signed coal purchase contracts, avoiding any disruption in supply. Vinacomin needs to have a reasonable production plan, effectively exploit domestic coal supply; and proactively set up and implement a coal import plan. The minister assigned the Department of Oil, Gas and Coal to coordinate with the Electricity Regulatory Authority to review the coal supply for power production every quarter. The department is also asked to propose a mechanism for the corporations and companies to sign directly long-term coal purchase contracts with Lao suppliers to the Government for approval. The Asia - Africa Market Department coordinates with relevant units and Quang Tri Province to urge investors to implement the investment in conveyor belts for coal. VNS HA NOI A summit focusing on women's leadership in cooperatives kicked off in Ha Noi on July 29, highlighting the role of women in driving economic growth. The annual Asia-Pacific Women CEOs in Cooperatives Summit, held as part of the International Cooperative Alliance Asia-Pacific (ICA-AP) Regional Board Meeting, carries the theme "Empowering Leadership: Navigating the Future of Cooperatives with Women at the Helm". In her opening speech, Chairwoman of the Vietnam Cooperative Alliance (VCA) Cao Xuan Thu Van highlighted gender equality and empowerment of women in economic development as global and regional concerns. Many cooperatives, established and led by women, are operating effectively, contributing to job creation and income growth. Viet Nam's agricultural sector, while lacking comprehensive data, shows promising signs of womens leadership, with at least 10 per cent of women in management roles in 18,340 agricultural cooperatives and 85 per cent of female workers having stable employment in this field. The "One Commune, One Product" programme, a key driver of rural development, boasts 39 per cent female-led entities, and 20 per cent of cooperatives with registered OCOP products are managed by women. Van also pointed out the Vietnamese Government's policies and mechanisms that encourage women's participation in collective economic development and cooperative establishment. She cited a project approved in January 2023, which supports cooperatives led by women and aims to create jobs for female workers by 2030. Additionally, the national gender equality strategy for 2021-2030 targets at least 27 per cent of female directors or cooperative managers by 2025 and 30 per cent by 2030. Le Hoai Trung, Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and head of its Commission for External Relations, described the collective economy and cooperatives as vital components of the national economy, playing a significant role in socio-economic development. He encouraged the VCA to proactively collaborate with relevant ministries and agencies to launch initiatives that enhance the role of female managers and leaders in cooperatives, thereby supporting the national strategy. The summit will continue through July 31, with discussions on challenges and opportunities for women in cooperatives. VNS Compiled by Thu Tra HA NOI It has been nearly a month since biometric authentication was implemented under the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV)'s decision. However, many problems related to the authentication method and the emergence of new forms of fraud have caused significant concern. The latest report from the SBV showed that after half a month of implementing biometrics, only two banks saw a biometric registration rate of over 20 per cent, and four other banks had a rate of over 10 per cent. Meanwhile, the remaining banks recorded a rate of less than 10 per cent. Among them, Techcombank posted the highest rate of customers updating their biometric information at 25.96 per cent, equivalent to about 2.6 million customers. At the same time, more than 90 per cent of the banks customers who regularly had transactions over VN10 million had proactively updated their biometric information. However, to date, many people have not completed their biometric registrations. In an online group with more than three million members, many people said they were not in a hurry to update their biometric information as they thought it was unnecessary. oan Quang from Nam inh Province is one of them. He said that as banks only required biometric authentication for transactions over VN10 million per transaction and accumulated VN20 million per day, he did not see biometric registration as essential. Many others said they had encountered difficulties with biometric registration even though it had been deployed for many days. Nguyen Tan, who lives in HCM City, said he tried and failed to update his biometric registration on the banking app several times. After going to the bank counter for support, Tan was informed that because he was using a new ID card, the system could not recognise it and he had to wait longer. Meanwhile, oan Trang, who works in Ha Noi's Hoan Kiem District, said that though she successfully made an online payment of over VN10 million for an air ticket using face verification, she had to try several times due to system errors. Trang said she found it inconvenient. Many of her friends had been struggling to transfer amounts over VN10 million since the requirement for face authentication took effect. Alongside these issues, many new forms of fraud have also appeared, increasing people's concerns. According to the latest report from Chongluadao.vn, the number of frauds and attacks totalled over 31,210 cases in the second quarter of this year, up seven per cent quarter-on-quarter. Notably, the number of fraud reports in June rose to 11,453, following a slight decrease in May. The project representative said that the increase in fraud cases in June was related to the SBV's decision on security solutions such as biometric authentication for online payments and bank cards. Fraudsters took advantage of the transition period to attack and exploit existing weaknesses. Scams related to biometric authentication included impersonating bank employees to ask users to provide photos or make video calls to obtain information or encouraging users to install malware through fake links and applications. Bank experts said biometric authentication aims to combat a surge in online fraud. However, there is no completely safe measure, and fraudsters always find ways to overcome technological barriers. Biometric authentication is an additional security solution, but the most important aspect is that individuals need to improve their awareness of self-protection. Biometrics is not enough on its own According to SBV Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung, when a new security measure is deployed, cybercriminals quickly adapt and develop new forms of fraud to overcome security barriers. He told vietnamfinance.vn that this had happened over the decades, from simple password cracking to more complex security systems, such as two-factor authentication and biometric authentication. However, there is a common misconception that fraudsters exploit the vulnerabilities of biometric technology. It is very difficult to fool biometric authentication systems. Fraudsters mainly take advantage of the difficulties people encounter during the authentication process to collect other personal information, serving criminal purposes, Dung said. He added that relying solely on biometric technology was not enough despite its advances. Organisations need to adopt a multi-layered security strategy that combines different authentication and security methods while continuously updating and improving protection systems, as well as enhancing user education and awareness of risks and prevention measures. Only users can minimise risks and ensure the safety of their information and assets, Dung noted. Joshua Dwight from RMIT University Vietnam said that during the transition period, technical difficulties and the emergence of new forms of fraud were understandable and that users and organisations had to face them. To mitigate these issues, banks need to not only invest in developing and deploying advanced technology solutions but also optimise processes to ensure the continuity and safety of banking services. At the same time, they need to train employees to master and effectively use these new technologies to increase productivity and better meet the diverse needs of customers, he told the online newspaper. He also advised users not to rely solely on security measures provided by banks or organisations, whether biometric or any other measure, to protect their assets. Users should be well aware of potential risks and regularly improve their knowledge about personal information security, including using strong passwords, not sharing login information with others, and being vigilant against scams via emails, messages, or fake calls, he said. 22 Credit institutions successfully deploy VNeID for authentication Twenty-two credit institutions and 13 payment intermediaries have successfully deployed the VNeID app for the authentication of payment account opening, payment transactions, and customer information verification, a conference held by the Ministry of Public Security and the State Bank of Vietnam on Tuesday in Ha Noi was told. Among them, the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank) is the first bank to successfully deploy VNeID with more than 600,000 account records. There have been 276.3 million customer records collected for comparison of biometric information with chip-mounted citizen identification cards. Stressing the importance of the Governments project on developing an application for the population database, digital identification, and authentication for the national digital transformation from 2022-25 with a vision to 2030 (Project 06), the SBV Governor Nguyen Thi Hong said that banking is among the first industries to connect to the electronic identification and authentication system to deploy VNeID. Hong said that the banking sector has coordinated with the Police Department for Administrative Management of Social Order in cleaning the national population data and completed the development of an information system to serve State management in terms of money laundering prevention. To date, six credit institutions have also completed the connection of social security accounts to banking accounts, which helps people receive subsidies from the Government more quickly. VNS Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, center, speaks to reporters about President Joe Bidens decision to withdraw from the presidential race Monday, July 22, 2024, at the headquarters of the Harris County Republican Party in Houston. Cruz also spoke about Colin Allred; a Democratic candidate who is running against Cruz for his senate seat. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has spent the last four years turning the podcast he launched to defend President Donald Trump against impeachment into a regular, three-episodes-a-week gig, powered by a massive radio network, iHeartMedia. The popular podcast is a novel venture for a sitting senator, and it has drawn complaints for blurring the lines between what is allowed under campaign finance law and Senate ethics rules. TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Advertisement Article continues below this ad It has also opened the Texas Republican who is seeking a third term in the Senate up to attacks from Democrats, including U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, a Dallas congressman challenging Cruz who says he is more focused on the show than his job in Washington. Cruz says the show is, in fact, a huge part of my job, because he uses it as a way to communicate with constituents. The senator has used the podcast to explain his votes in the Senate, as well as discuss issues ranging from the border to the Supreme Court. This podcast its not peripheral to my job as senator, its integral to my job as senator, Cruz said in one recent episode. Cruz launched Verdict to defend Trump against impeachment The show began in 2020 as a vehicle for Cruz who was serving as a juror in Donald Trumps Senate impeachment trial to push back against House Democrats allegations that the former president abused his office when he withheld military aid from Ukraine as he sought to pressure its leaders to announce an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cruz recorded every night after the trial let out, and taped the first episode at 2:45 a.m. BACKGROUND: Ted Cruz uses podcast launched to rail against Trump impeachment to advocate for Biden inquiry A spokeswoman for Cruz said at the time that the senator saw the podcast as a way to speak directly to the American people, bypassing traditional news outlets. It drew a big audience almost immediately. Verdict topped the iTunes charts in its first week, beating out wildly popular shows such as The Joe Rogan Experience and The New York Times The Daily. iHeartMedia distributes Cruz's podcast The show got picked up by the massive radio network iHeartMedia in 2022, a development the Texas Republican declared a big damn deal. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cruz announced the deal in an episode of the podcast, declaring iHeartMedia a "monster." "Its got 850 stations across the country, Cruz said. Since then, Cruz has put out three episodes a week. 'Verdict' podcast has sparked ethics complaints But the podcast and Cruzs deal with iHeart has drawn a series of complaints. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cruz has said he does not get paid for the podcasting gig, but iHeart has made regular payments totaling more than $787,000 to a super PAC supporting the Texas Republicans reelection effort. The company has said the payments are associated with ad revenue from the podcast Two Washington D.C.-based nonprofits, End Citizens United and the Campaign Legal Center, filed a complaint with the Federal Elections Commission in April, arguing Cruz appears to have brazenly violated campaign finance laws by soliciting donations to the Truth and Courage PAC from iHeartMedia. Cruzs campaign has dismissed the complaints as lazy attacks during an election year and insisted the senator is appearing on the program for free. READ MORE: Ted Cruz could be liable for taxes on payments from his iHeartMedia podcast, experts say The FEC has yet to act on the complaint. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Campaign Legal Center also filed a complaint with the Senate Ethics Committee alleging the deal with iHeart was illegal, because senators are prohibited from accepting gifts from lobbyists, which iHeartMedia has. The watchdog group said the company was providing free production and marketing services for Cruzs podcast under an unprecedented national syndication agreement for a sitting member of Congress. NEW DELHI A Ninh Binh delegation led by Chairman of the provincial People's Committee Pham Quang Ngoc had a working trip to Mumbai city, Maharashtra state, India, from July 26-27 to promote its tourism. The Consulate General of Viet Nam in Mumbai coordinated with the delegation in organising a series of activities to promote the northern locality's tourism and economic potential and advantages, notably the meeting with the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) and the dialogue with some tourism organisations and Bollywood film producers. Speaking at the two events, Ngoc emphasised that Ninh Binh is striving to develop comprehensive tourism, while preserving and promoting local cultural values, and unique natural landscapes for sustainable tourism development. He said Ninh Binh always welcomes Indian businesses, investors, tourism agencies, and film crews to come to explore possibilities for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, weddings, and film production, pledging to create favourable conditions for partners to promote Indian tourism in Viet Nam in general and Ninh Binh in particular. Consul General Le Quang Bien emphasised that cooperation in the fields of tourism, culture, and Bollywood cinema plays an important role in enhancing cooperation and people-to-people connectivity between Viet Nam and India. Indian delegates and partners got an insight into Ninh Binh, including its tourist attractions such as the Hoa Lu ancient capital and the Trang An - Tam Coc - Bich ong site, and suggested measures to boost local tourism and cultural development. At a working session with the delegation, Bien affirmed that the Consulate General is ready to support Ninh Binh province and other Vietnamese localities in implementing foreign affairs in service of socio-economic development, contributing to promoting the relations between Viet Nam and India. VNA/VNS HA NOI National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man has praised the Viet Nam Trade Union for being a reliable and loyal support of the Party and wholeheartedly striving for the interests of labourers and the working class. Attending the 95th founding anniversary of the Viet Nam Trade Union, which was held by the Viet Nam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) in Ha Noi, NA Chairman Man awarded the First Class Labour Medal to the VGCL for the trade union's outstanding achievements. Man affirmed that the working class and trade unions were always the leading force in the national cause of industrialisation and modernisation. On Sunday the NA Chairman pointed out that the increasingly deep international integration and the impact of the fourth industrial revolution posed new opportunities and challenges for the trade union sector. In addition to employment opportunities, accessing to science and technology and participation in the global value chain, businesses and workers are required to make continuous efforts to improve labour productivity, management capacity and competitiveness. Additionally international labour commitments in new-generation free trade agreements required the Viet Nam Trade Union to strongly and comprehensively innovate. NA Chairman Man requested the trade unions at all levels continue to effectively implement the 13th National Party Congresss Resolution and the Politburos Resolution No 02 issued on June 12, 2021 about trade unions innovation in the new era. He noted the sector's drive to grasp workers employment situation, income and standard of living, listened to the thoughts and aspirations of workers and union officials in developing scientific and feasible programmes, which focus on applying information technology in all union activities. He also noted the importance of ensuring occupational safety and hygiene. NA Chairman Man requested the trade union sector at all levels to proactively and effectively conduct new regulations and policies related to workers, promptly deploy plans on reforming wage, adjust pensions, social insurance benefits, monthly allowances and preferential allowances for people with meritorious services to the nation. He hopes that outstanding trade union officials will strongly spread the spirit of creativity and resilience among trade union officials all over the country. The NA Chairman believes that, by promoting the glorious tradition of the working class and the Viet Nam Trade Union, the trade union sector will have a new and even stronger purpose ahead, making worthy contributions to the growth of the Party and the nation. Union members and workers nationwide will further actively devote themselves to the countrys sustainability. Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the VGCL Nguyen inh Khang said that over the past 95 years, through countless difficulties and challenges, under the leadership of the Party, the Viet Nam Trade Union has continuously grown and matured. The sector accompanies the nation, becoming a reliable and loyal force and support of the Party, closely attached to and wholeheartedly striving for the interests of workers. He added, today they continue the tradition of previous generations to look for and explore ways of ensuring employment, improving incomes and bettering the lives of union members and workers. VNS HA NOI Algerian Ambassador to Viet Nam Sofiane Chaib has expressed his deep condolences over the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, affirming his legacy will be a source of inspirations for the Southeast Asian nation and its people. After learning of the Party chiefs passing, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune also sent a letter of sympathy to his Vietnamese counterpart To Lam in which the former highlighted sincere sentiments and solidarity with the Vietnamese people. Last week, President Tebboune dispatched Minister of War Veterans and Rights Holders Laid Rebiga to Viet Nam to attend the funeral for the General Secretary, who breathed his last on July 19. In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), Chaib lauded General Secretary Trong's clear-sighted vision on Viet Nam's development, as well as his noble virtues, ceaseless commitments, and great contributions to the nation, especially in socio-economic development. The Party leader shaped and developed the bamboo diplomacy policy, and promoted the foreign policy of independence, self-reliance and flexibility, which has helped Viet Nam reap marked achievements in international cooperation and consolidating its position in the world, the diplomat continued. Chaib stressed that during the Party chiefs terms, the friendship and traditional solidarity between Viet Nam and Algeria have been consolidated on the basis of their historical similarities and sincere sentiments. The bilateral ties have seen progress over the past time, with the exchange of high-level visits, and meetings of bilateral cooperation and consultation mechanisms, contributing to creating new motives for the relationship, and outlining and implementing targets to boost cooperation between the two countries in various areas. VNS HA NOI President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta will pay a state visit to Viet Nam from July 31 to August 3, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced. This visit will be made at the invitation of President To Lam. Viet Nam and Timor-Leste have had a long-standing relationship. When the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (FRETILIN) declared independence (September 1975), Viet Nam was one of the first countries to recognise it. Since the establishment of the state of Timor-Leste and its declaration of independence (May 2002), the relationship between the two countries has made significant progress. The two countries signed a Joint Communique establishing diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level (July 2002). Timor-Leste officially opened its embassy in Ha Noi in April 2012) Since the official establishment of diplomatic relations (July 28, 2002), the leadership of Viet Nam and Timor-Leste have conducted numerous high-level visits. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam and its traditional friends in Africa, including Burundi, share similarities in their struggles for national liberation and development, providing a foundation conducive to further deepening substantive friendship and cooperation, said Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee and head of its Commission for External Relations Le Hoai Trung. During a reception in Ha Noi on July 29 for Reverien Ndikuriyo, Secretary General of the National Council for the Defence of Democracy-Forces for the Defence of Democracy (CNDD-FDD) -- the ruling party in Burundi, Trung thanked the CNDD-FDD, Government and people of Burundi for their heartfelt condolences over the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. He highlighted the importance of party-to-party ties in boosting overall bilateral cooperation, particularly in politics, economy, trade, and people-to-people exchange. He also suggested the Burundian Government facilitate the stable operation of Viettel Group in Burundi, aiming to make it a role model for other Vietnamese firms looking to expand into Burundi and the broader African market. Ndikuriyo briefed Trung on the CNDD-FDDs current situation and Burundi's recent socio-economic progress, expressing a strong desire to build robust friendship and cooperation with the CPV. This, he said, would lay a solid foundation to foster bilateral relations. Both sides agreed to step up relations between the two parties and countries through increasing the exchange of high-level delegations and experience in Party building and national development, continuing mutual support at multilateral forums, facilitating trade activities and market research, and holding cultural, sport and tourism exchanges to celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties next year. VNS VIENTIANE Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung was granted a third-class Issara (Freedom) Order of Laos on July 29 for his contributions to enhancing great friendship, special solidary and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries during nearly eight years working as ambassador in the neighbouring country. Authorised by the Lao Prime Minister, Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith presented the decoration to Hung. The Lao Deputy FM spoke highly of contributions of the Vietnamese diplomat during his term in Laos, affirming that Hung has excellently fulfilled his role as a bridge to help connect and develop the special relationship between Laos and Viet Nam, in terms of politics-diplomacy, economics-trade, culture and tourism. Notably, he has helped promote some large and prestigious Vietnamese enterprises to invest in Laos, contributing to local socio-economic development. For his part, Hung expressed his honour to receive the Issara Order, saying that this is not only a recognition of his contributions, but also a special affection of the Lao Party, State and people for the Party, State and people of Viet Nam, the appreciation of the Lao Party and State for contributions and fostering of the special relationship between the two countries by the Embassy and other agencies in Laos. Ambassador Hung said that while being on duty in Laos, he has witnessed and participated in many important political events between the two countries, adding that he always considers Laos his second homeland. This noble order will be a great source of encouragement and motivation for the diplomat and his colleagues to continue to spare no effort to promote good traditions and work together to nurture the Viet Nam - Laos relations to further develop in an effective and practical manner, bringing practical benefits to the two countries and peoples, he affirmed The ambassador pledged to continue to do his utmost to deepen the Viet Nam - Laos friendship in all areas. The third-class Issara is a noble order of the Lao State awarded to Lao citizens with outstanding achievements in national defence, construction and development. Ambassador Hung is the first foreign ambassador to Laos to be awarded the decoration. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam has sent letters and messages to leaders of countries, international organisations, political parties and international friends to express gratitude for their heartfelt condolences over the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. The thank-you letters and messages were cabled by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam, President To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, standing member of the CPV Central Committees Secretariat Luong Cuong, and other Party and State leaders. In these messages, the Vietnamese leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fulfilling General Secretary Trong's wishes by deepening the friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and other countries and global partners, aiming for the mutual benefit of all nations and the promotion of peace, cooperation, and prosperity in the region and world. In recent days, leaders from 103 countries and territories, along with 32 international organisations, have sent nearly 500 letters and messages of condolences to Viet Nam and the family of the late leader. They extended deep affection, profound sorrow, and immense respect for General Secretary Trong, honouring his contributions to Viet Nam's development and its relationships with international partners. Furthermore, they expressed a strong desire to enhance cooperation with Viet Nam across all sectors. As many as 100 international delegations have paid floral tribute in Viet Nam while over 3,500 others paid their respects to the Party chief at Vietnamese diplomatic agencies around the world. Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong passed away in Ha Noi on July 19 at the age of 80. VNA/VNS By Nguyen Hang BAC NINH Yusuke Onimaru, 52, a master potter from Japan, is seen drenched in sweat, dressed in a navy t-shirt and light-grey khaki trousers with an orange towel draped over his shoulder to mop his brow. He is busy unloading a batch of freshly-fired pottery from the kiln alongside his students at Phu Lang pottery village in Que Vo District, Bac Ninh Province, on a sweltering July afternoon. The latest batch includes a charming array of household ceramics such as mugs, plates, bowls and decorative pieces. Onimaru is part of a collaborative initiative between Viet Nam and Japan, which has been running for the past three years to train 52 students at the village and develop the local pottery industry. He is involved in teaching and guiding the students, with his daily routine stretching from dawn till dusk. Typically, Onimaru and his students begin their day with a meeting to agree on the schedule and assign specific tasks to each student. The trainees are instructed in the use of clay and various pottery techniques through three distinct courses. Particularly on kiln firing days, Onimaru and his students may work non-stop for up to 30 hours. At first, my students had to struggle with exhaustion and sleep deprivation while tending the kiln overnight. However, they then adapted and worked alongside me for 30 hours continuously, he said. Initially, both the students and the local villagers were skeptical about whether they could produce such refined and high-quality pottery. To boost their morale, I introduced them to traditional Japanese ceramics and strived to guide them in creating similar high-quality pieces over the three years, he added. He admitted to having concerns about maintaining cleanliness in the workshop at the start, but soon realised that the students diligently cleaned their workspace every day. The students here show great respect for their teachers, which has made the work environment very conducive. I believe the advantages far outweigh the challenges, he added. A valuable opportunity Bui Van Huan, 34, a graduate of the University of Industrial Fine Arts with a major in traditional ceramics, is one of the standout students. He said When I heard about the project in 2022, I saw it as an incredibly valuable opportunity to further my skills and experience in ceramics. Through the project, Huan and his fellow students have acquired basic techniques for crafting small, delicate household ceramics using traditional methods. Prior to the course, Phu Lang Villages artisans specialised in producing large-scale items such as water jars, which were difficult to sell and of relatively low value. Producing the large ceramics also consumed considerable resources, including clay and firewood. The course has helped change the local approach to pottery. The shift not only reduced environmental impact but also conserved resources while potentially increasing value, he said. The pottery village, with a history spanning over 800 years, has long been involved in making household ceramics like bowls and dishes. However, Huan and other classmates had yet to learn the techniques for making the smaller items. The course provided them an opportunity to learn these techniques directly from Japanese instructors. Instead of spending approximately ten years rediscovering traditional techniques through antique ceramics, we received direct guidance from our teachers, allowing us to learn much more rapidly, Huan said, adding that the course is completely free of charge. Huan has had the opportunity to visit Japan twice, touring the Toho pottery village in Fukuoka Prefecture and exhibiting products in Tokyo. The trips offered valuable insights into how pottery was made in Toho village, visits to pottery museums and lessons on market presentation. Our instructors have even created a website for us, which will enable us to sell and showcase our products in Japan once we have perfected our techniques and produced quality items for the Japanese market, he added. Another student, Hoang Thi Thuy, 34, who graduated in fashion design from Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, said at first, she just wanted to challenge herself when she learned about the project. But during the course, she discovered her passion for ceramics and decided to leave fashion design behind to pursue pottery. Now, my new path and dream are to work in ceramics, she said. Despite some believing that the work was too physically demanding for women, Thuy found joy and satisfaction in her new vocation. Every time I create a piece and see it completed, I feel very happy, she said. Thuy said she has gained a deeper understanding of the traditional value of handmade ceramics and felt she received a lot from the experience. Lessons from the master Huan said firing ceramics using traditional wood kilns was extremely labour-intensive. Opting for wood-firing over electric or gas kilns was already a challenging choice. The process of making ceramics was inherently messy, with hands and feet constantly caked in mud and tending a kiln through the night was genuinely arduous. There have been times when I was so ill and exhausted, but still had to get up to tend the kiln, he said. There were nights when both the teacher and students were so tired from watching the kiln that we had to splash water on our faces continuously to stay awake, as we had to add firewood regularly throughout the firing process. Huan also said he learned a lot from Onimaru. There were days when everyone worked non-stop from morning until 11 pm or midnight, only taking a brief break for meals before resuming. The next morning, we would start again at 5 am to monitor the kiln. Despite this intense schedule, Onimaru remained highly dedicated. Once, Huan asked Onimaru that why, despite his success and comfort, he still chose such a demanding job. Onimaru replied to Huan This is my lifes goal. I found my purpose in life through working with ceramics. The statement has been a tremendous source of motivation for Huan as he pursues his own career in traditional ceramics. Huan, who was born in a pottery village, has always loved ceramics and aspired to establish his own brand. His early experiences included scavenging for shellfish, where he often came across fragments of pottery, which he sees as a fortuitous introduction to the craft. After graduated from the University of Industrial Fine Arts in 2014 and worked for various pottery workshops across the country for many years. In 2020, he returned to his hometown and opened his own workshop to pursue his passion for ceramics and was later introduced to the project. The project has been a vital boost, allowing me to live out my passion, he said. Success and future plans Nguyen Ba Quan, vice chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Lang Town, said the project has trained 52 students across three courses and selected 14 outstanding students for a special advanced training programme in Japan. The project, executed by Onimaru Setsuzan Kamamoto Co., Ltd. and Toho Village, along with Phu Lang Commune People's Committee and Que Vo District People's Committee, was part of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)s Development Partnership Programme. Approved by the provincial People's Committee on July 28, 2021, the project has four main objectives. The aims consisted of guiding pottery techniques using Japanese methods to produce high-quality and aesthetically pleasing ceramics; preserving and developing the pottery craft for future generations and boost local economic development; promoting Phu Langs pottery globally and devising a future development plan, especially for collaboration with Japan; and enhancing cultural and economic exchanges between Bac Ninh Province and Fukuoka Prefecture, strengthening the strategic partnership between Viet Nam and Japan. The project has held two exhibitions, one in Tokyo in April 2024 and another at the Viet Nam Women's Museum in Ha Noi in June 2024. The exhibitions attracted numerous international visitors, aiding in the promotion and sale of the projects products. Through the courses, teachers from Japan highly praised the students' technical skills in shaping products, he said. Gratitude is extended to JICA and especially to Onimaru and his team for their dedication and responsibility in teaching the students and introducing Phu Langs ceramics to the world, he added. As the project concluded in this August, there was a request for Onimarus company to allow the 14 students to form a cooperative to continue developing the pottery village. Additionally, the provincial People's Committee was investing VN19 billion (US$750,700), focusing on developing the craft village and tourism in the future. However, challenges still remained, including the traditional nature of Phu Lang ceramics, which limited product variety and marketability. Additionally, pottery production was fragmented, requiring a comprehensive plan for village development and tourism. Nguyen Quy Thanh, deputy chairman of Phu Lang Commune, asked JICA to assign a volunteer to continue supporting the village in developing traditional ceramics. Tsuchimoto Amane, from the JICA Viet Nam Office said the project arose from the need to address the decline of traditional craft villages due to rapid modernisation and industrial growth. The initiative aims to enhance the skills of Phu Lang artisans, integrating traditional and modern Japanese techniques to improve income and resource efficiency, contributing to the local pottery industrys development. The project established a shared production facility with a traditional Japanese kiln model, trained 14 young outstanding artisans in traditional and modern techniques and built a network of passionate individuals committed to traditional pottery. The worlds ceramics hub Onimaru said after touring all the pottery villages in Viet Nam, he ultimately chose Phu Lang village to implement the project because the residents still produced ceramics entirely by hand in the village. The pottery was made using traditional techniques and the materials were all natural, allowing for the creation of high-quality ceramics with global appeal. The village uses many traditional pottery techniques, which aligns perfectly with our criteria. When all elements are natural and handcrafted, tourists will find it very intriguing, he said. Onimarus ultimate goal was to preserve traditional ceramic craftsmanship. With modern technology increasingly dominating pottery production, there was a risk that handcrafted items imbued with the artisans spirit might fade away. I feel it is essential to protect these handcrafted cultural elements. Thats why I decided to carry out the project in Phu Lang village, he explained. Globally, including in Japan and other advanced countries, machinery was widely used in ceramic production. Yet, when Onimaru introduced the entirely handcrafted ceramics from Phu Lang village to his international friends, they were very impressed. I hope people will recognise that Viet Nam has the potential to become a new global hub for this craft. I want many people around the world to visit and experience the beauty of the craft village, he added. Onimaru, who along with his father has a long lineage in ceramics, inherited the crafts rich traditions from his ancestors and he is keen to pass on his knowledge and experience to future generations. I am very eager to establish the place not only as a centre for ceramics in Viet Nam but also on a global scale, he said. Onimaru, graduated from Osaka University of Arts, Plastic Art Course, Crafts Department in 1995. In 1998, he started pottery making in Koishiwara, Fukuoka Prefecture. In 2012, he had an exhibition at the Biennale of Contemporary Pottery and Ceramics of Sevres, held by the National Museum of Ceramic of Sevres in France. In 2015, he had an exhibition at the Revelations art event held at the Grand Palais in Paris, France. In 2016, his cups were exhibited at the Japanese Emperors birthday celebration reception at the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco. VNS KON TUM From midnight Sunday until Monday morning, Kon Plong District in the Central Highlands province of Kon Tum experienced eleven earthquakes. Combined with 21 earthquakes on Sunday, the area has endured 32 earthquakes in the past 24 hours. The Institute of Geophysics reported that at 6.56am on Monday, the district experienced its tenth earthquake of the day with a magnitude of 2.6. The earthquake occurred at coordinates 14.788N latitude and 108.214E longitude, with a focal depth of approximately 8.1km. The disaster risk level is categorised as zero. Following this, the Institute of Geophysics also released information about the eleventh earthquake of the day in Kon Plong, Kon Tum. Including this one, Kon Tum has experienced 32 earthquakes in the past 24 hours, with the number of earthquakes expected to increase. The Earthquake Information and Tsunami Warning Centre - Institute of Geophysics is continuing to monitor this series of quakes. On Sunday Kon Plong endured a total of 21 earthquakes. Among these, a 5.0 magnitude earthquake occurred at noon, causing tremors in many neighbouring localities. At the epicentre in Kon Plong, many houses were cracked due to the tremors and authorities issued a disaster risk level two warning. The earthquakes on Monday caused tremors in many central provinces and cities including Hue, a Nang and Quang Nam. Residents in the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani and Sakhon Nakhon in northeastern Thailand also felt the tremors from the earthquakes that occurred in Viet Nam on Sunday. Earthquakes due to human activity According to the Institute of Geophysics, the 5.0 magnitude earthquake in Kon Plong District on Sunday afternoon was induced by human activity. The Institute of Geophysics has deployed eleven monitoring stations in Kon Tum Province and is conducting in-depth studies to assess the seismic activity in the area. VNS HA NOI Thirty-six food poisoning outbreaks were reported in the first half of 2024, making more than 2,100 people ill and claiming six lives, according to the Ministry of Health. While the overall number of outbreaks dipped slightly compared to the previous year, the number of people affected surged three-fold. The northern mountainous region saw a decline in cases, whereas the central coast and southeast region witnessed an increase. Deputy Minister of Health o Xuan Tuyen underlined a series of outbreaks in provinces like Khanh Hoa, ong Nai, and Vinh Phuc which made thousands of people ill and disrupted businesses. He said while food poisoning incidents occuring in homes and at private gatherings have declined, the problem has shifted to restaurants, hotels and street food stalls. Recent outbreaks at schools and company canteens have also raised concerns. He cited harmful bacteria and natural toxins as the primary factors behind the illnesses. Pork and chicken dishes have been identified as common sources of contamination. The Ministry of Health has stepped up efforts to combat food poisoning. A directive issued in May outlined measures for ministries, provinces and cities to prevent and respond to outbreaks. Health officials nationwide have been instructed to strengthen food safety inspections, track down contaminated products and punish violators. Local authorities are tasked with developing tailored plans to address specific risks within their jurisdictions, considering factors like economic conditions and disease outbreaks. Public awareness campaigns are also underway to educate people about food poisoning risks, especially in high-risk areas like schools, factories and popular tourist spots. Consumers are urged to be cautious when purchasing food, checking for clear labels and expiration dates. They are also advised to avoid canned goods that appear damaged or swollen, as these may contain harmful bacteria. Proper food storage is also crucial to prevent contamination. The ministry has also called on businesses and organisations to join forces in promoting food safety. Successful models of safe food production and distribution will be honoured publicly, while those found to be endangering public health will face severe consequences. On Saturday, health officials in Binh Thuan Province reported a suspected mass food poisoning incident where 182 tourists fell ill after having lunch at a resort in Phan Thiet City. The victims were reported to have dinner at a local restaurant the previous night and were rushed to hospital with severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Food samples from the resort have been collected for testing, but those from the restaurant were unavailable due to the passage of time. Health inspectors are examining both establishments to identify potential causes of the food poisoning. By Monday, 43 people had been discharged from the hospital. More information will be released as the investigation progresses. VNS Anthony Franze is a native Texan and very passionate about covering any weather that is thrown at him. He can be reached at anthony.franze@express-news.net. Anthony earned a degree in Meteorology from Valparaiso University in 2017. He has worked as a broadcast meteorologist for six years, one at NBC Montana and the next five at NewsWest 9 in Midland before joining the Express-News in July 2023. In his free time, Anthony enjoys watching sports, checking out local restaurants and breweries, and getting outside whenever the heat allows for it. If you have any story ideas, questions about the weather or restaurant suggestions, drop him a line. HA NOI Prosecutors in the fraud and stock manipulation case of FLC Group say the defendants violations are conscious and deliberate actions. In the ongoing trial against FLC chairman Trinh Van Quyet and 49 other defendants, prosecutors on Monday said that Quyet is the mastermind behind the case who made all necessary preparations to organise, coordinate and delegate other defendants in a series of deliberate fraudulent actions over many years, with multiple instances of unwarranted increase of capital contributions. The prosecution statement said that this series of violations started from the purchase of Green Belt Company (later renamed Faros), with five allegedly baseless increases in owners capital contribution from VN1.5 billion ($59,300) to VN4.3 trillion ($170 million). The defendants then allegedly arranged paperwork to list the companys stocks, ROS, on the HCM City Stock Exchange (HOSE). With more than 391 million shares sold at their inflated value, the defendants accumulated more than VN4.8 trillion ($190 million) and embezzled over VN3.6 trillion ($142.4 million) of stock investors, according to the prosecutors. Prosecutors also said that the other defendants are Quyets family members, subordinates and acquaintances. Among them are two of Quyets younger sisters Trinh Thi Minh Hue and Trinh Thi Thuy Nga, who he trusted and assigned various fraudulent actions, including posing as shareholders on paper, holding investment entrustment to legitimise inflated capital contributions, recording falsified information in financial statements for audits, as well as other documents as part of the necessary procedures to list ROS on the stock exchange. Other defendants are from the Department of Public Company Supervision (under the State Securities Commission), the Viet Nam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation and the HOSE used the fraudulent information in Faros financial statements and documents to approve the company and its stock registration, listing 430 million ROS shares on the HOSE. According to the prosecutors, without the contributions of any of the defendants in the listing of ROS shares, Quyet would have been unable to sell more than 391 million stocks to investors. At the trial on Monday, most defendants accused of helping Quyet, Hue and others in their wrongdoings admitted to the actions and charges brought against them by the prosecutors. However, they and their defence lawyers said they are unaware of the inflated capital investments and ROS share listing for fraudulent appropriation of property. In response, the prosecutors said that these defendants signed documents related to the unwarranted capital contribution increases multiple times, and accepted investment entrustments without having actual capital funding or involving in investment activities themselves. Therefore, they must have known that their signature on these falsified documents is illegal, according to the prosecutors. These documents include capital increase documents, financial statements and payment orders to seven organisations and seven individuals borrowing funding from Faros, without taking into account the companys actual operations, its regulations or business laws, but at the direction of Quyet, Hue and Doan Van Phuong (FLCs CEO, who are in hiding). Therefore, the prosecutors rejected the reasoning of the defendants and their lawyers, while also asserting the interconnection of the defendants roles and actions as accomplices with Quyet, Hue and Nga. VNS A delegation led by John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), will visit Hanoi on July 31August 1 and Ho Chi Minh City on August 12. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the delegation will include HKSAR Government principal officials, and some 30 leaders of enterprises and conglomerates operating finance and insurance; innovation and technology; professional services; infrastructure, transport and logistics; energy and hospitality. During the visit, the delegates will meet members of local chambers of commerce and key corporations to explore business opportunities, leveraging Hong Kongs super-connector role linking China and the world. Peter K N Lam, HKTDC's chairman, said, The purpose of this visit is to grow the bond between Vietnam and Hong Kong while simultaneously contributing to our broader aim of strengthening economic ties between Hong Kong and the ASEAN region. "As 2024 is the ASEAN-China Year of People-to-People Exchanges, this visit carries extra importance. Since its establishment in 1966, the HKTDC has prioritised building connections between Hong Kong and the world through business and trade. This translates into exploring new collaborative opportunities between Vietnam and Hong Kong to strengthen economic ties, with the ultimate goal of mutual prosperity and economic development," he said. Hong Kong, as an international finance, trade, investment and cultural exchange hub bridging Mainland China and the world, seeks to build upon the close relationship between Mainland China and Vietnam by providing opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to reach the mainland market. Vietnam and Hong Kong maintain a strong economic and trade relationship, which Hong Kong seeks to reinforce with this visit. In 2023, Vietnam was Hong Kongs fifth-largest export market and its largest in ASEAN, Hong Kongs seventh-largest trading partner and second largest in ASEAN, and Hong Kongs eighth-largest import market and third largest in ASEAN. The trade visit will facilitate discussion on synergies between Hong Kong and Vietnam and how to enable Vietnamese businesses to leverage Hong Kongs dynamic startup ecosystem and in new sectors of growth, such as innovation and technology and sustainability, and green finance. These discussions will also look at market entry strategies and opportunities for outbound investments by Hong Kong businesses. The visit to Vietnam builds on the success of previous ASEAN missions to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia in 2023 and Thailand in 2022. It is part of a wider mission to ASEAN taking place from July 28 to August 2, during which the Hong Kong delegation will also visit Laos and Cambodia to strengthen trade and economic cooperation and cultural exchange between ASEAN and Hong Kong. Opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) through mutually beneficial collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative will also be explored. ASEAN is Hong Kong's second-largest trading partner in merchandise trade, with a total trade volume of $145 billion in 2023. An international finance and business hub in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong serves as a bridge between Mainland China and the rest of the world. Development plans, such as the Belt and Road Initiative and GBA create many arising opportunities, reinforcing Hong Kongs role as a super-connector. Ample opportunities for cooperation between Hong Kong and Vietnam Hong Kong is seeking opportunities to cooperate with Vietnam in a wide range of fields, from finance and technology, to food and beverage (F&B) and consumer goods. Hong Kong prioritises granting visas to Vietnamese skilled workers, tourists The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of China received 132 applications for working visas from Vietnam, Laos, and Nepal as of February 29 after it opened its visa programme for skilled workers from these countries on October 25 last year, according to Chris Tang, secretary for security of the region. State-owned MobiFone is developing 5G infrastructure and increasing 5G services in prioritised areas after winning the auction to claim the C3 band block this month to meet the requirements of local authorities. Mastering 5G will help Vietnam improve competitiveness in various areas, experts say A representative of MobiFone told VIR that ownership of the C3 band block will be the basis for MobiFone to accelerate the commercialisation of 5G services nationwide, with a focus on enhancing services in big cities, airport areas, tourist destinations or areas with many industrial parks. We will also deploy an infrastructure sharing cooperation model with other network operators which have suitable 5G frequency bands to enhance the effectiveness of 5G deployment. This cooperation not only helps optimise the resources of network operators but also gives customers the best experience with 5G services, he added. MobiFone, established three decades ago, owns available infrastructure, and nationwide coverage of 2G-4G. MobiFone currently has nearly four million subscribers using 5G-enabled devices. In March, it and Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) inked a deal on sharing infrastructure to optimise strengths and operation efficiency. To Thai Dung, chairman of VNPT, noted that this event has important significance for VNPT and MobiFone, marking the next development step in the long-term cooperation between the two businesses. The success of this agreement depends entirely on the efforts of both sides to maintain it based on trust, responsibility, together overcoming difficulties and sharing benefits, Dung said. Also in March, VNPT won the auction for the C2 band block, which covers 3700-3800 MHz, for 5G. One month later, the group received a license to establish a network and provide terrestrial mobile communication services using 5G technology. VNPT is also making preparations for 5G commercialisation. VNPT is planning to deploy 5G nationwide, with a priority on the development of 5G network infrastructure to improve user experience, providing high speed, large capacity, and the lowest latency while still optimising the investment cost and increasing business efficiency. In the immediate future, VNPT will focus on deploying 5G in areas that require high interaction and real-time online communication, as well as areas such as high-tech parks, urban areas, universities among others, said a VNPT representative. Specifically, in Ho Chi Minh City, he added that it will quickly deploy 5G coverage with the C2 band and will focus on deploying 5G in the city centre and Thu Duc city to meet the needs of bandwidth, and new specific applications of 5G technology. Like VNPT and MobiFone, telecoms group Viettel is actively building 5G infrastructure after winning the right to use the 2500-2600MHz frequency in the March auction. In late June, the Ministry of Information and Communicationss Authority of Telecommunications (AoT) awarded a certificate of conformity for some 5G base station equipment to Viettel High Technology Industry Corporation, making it the first company in Vietnam to get the certificate. So far, Viettel has built and tested nearly 500 5G stations nationwide. It also deploys a private 5G mobile network in practice. Nguyen Thanh Phuc, director of the AoT, said, Owning and mastering this technology will help Vietnam improve its competitiveness and promote socioeconomic development, and especially create better conditions for the development of new industries such as the Internet of Things, AI, and big data. Despite the efforts, there are a number of issues facing network operators in the journey. Technology analyst Minh Vu said, The financial challenge when deploying 5G is a big barrier. The investment required to deploy 5G is huge, while the return on investment will take a long time for consumers and businesses to adopt 5G-enabled devices and services. In addition, the limited spectrum usage period of only 15 years is also a challenge, so network operators have to rush in the start of business operations to recoup money. Tech expert Ngo Nguyen added, Vietnams challenge is that the number of people using 3G and 4G-enabled devices is still considerable. As 5G networks roll out, users will have to change their devices. This is costly and can affect peoples willingness to use 5G services. The IT infrastructure being deployed in businesses is largely old technology, Nguyen added, and to be ready for 5G tech, businesses will have to change their infrastructure. As of July, the Ministry of Information and Communications has issued frequency licences to three major mobile network operators (MNOs) Viettel, VNPT, and MobiFone for the deployment of 5G networks. This milestone event marks a significant leap in Vietnams digital infrastructure, catering to future ultra-wideband requirements. Despite the push towards 5G, operators are concurrently enhancing the quality of their 4G networks, which remain central to their current operations and revenue streams. Hoang Viet Tien, deputy secretary general Vietnam Digital Communication Association 5G is expected to yield substantial benefits, including a tenfold increase in network capacity and a 30 per cent reduction in energy consumption compared to previous generations. With Vietnams burgeoning data traffic, 5G promises to meet growing demands efficiently, thereby reducing energy costs significantly. Central to Vietnams strategy is its focus on digital transformation to bolster the digital economy. By 2025, the aim is for Vietnams digital economy to surpass $45 billion, constituting about 20 per cent of the national GDP, with projections to increase to 30 per cent by 2030. Globally, approximately 235 network operators have commenced 5G deployments. In May, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai outlined eleven key tasks and strategies for the future, which include accelerating digital infrastructure development, expediting the commercial operation of 5G infrastructure, bolstering data centre infrastructure, and much more. The deployment of 5G stands as a cornerstone in Vietnams national digital transformation agenda through 2025, with a vision extending to 2030. Compared to its predecessors, 5G offers enhanced data throughput, reduced energy consumption, and supports advanced technologies such as AI, Internet of Things, and ultra-low latency applications. It is anticipated that 5G networks will consume approximately 10 times less energy than 4G, thus contributing to the creation of a sustainable and energy-efficient digital ecosystem. According to Qualcomm, global economic benefits from 5G are projected to reach $13.1 trillion and generate 22.8 million new jobs by 2035, impacting industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to education. In the Asia-Pacific region alone, 5G is anticipated to generate economic value exceeding $113 billion by 2030. A recent study by the National Institute of Information and Communications Strategy forecasts that by 2025, 5G will contribute 7.34 per cent to Vietnams GDP growth. Domestic enterprises and foreign-invested firms are actively collaborating with MNOs to explore various 5G business models implemented globally and in the region. Across the globe, 5G is being leveraged for applications ranging from industrial automation to smart seaports and national security. In many parts of the world, MNOs have increasingly adopted 5G for fixed wireless broadband access, circumventing challenges associated with deploying fibre-optic cables or establishing connectivity in rural areas. This approach has markedly improved connectivity and accessibility, enabling millions previously unable to connect to access high-quality digital services. Looking ahead, the convergence of 4G and 5G technologies is expected to synergise, with 4G remaining pivotal in the short term while transitioning gradually to 5G. The speed and capabilities of 5G are essential for tackling challenges posed by new and emerging tech, thereby underscoring the imperative of timely 5G development in advancing technological innovation and societal progress. The commercialisation of 5G is poised to unlock new revenue streams for MNOs. Furthermore, 5G deployment presents opportunities for telecommunications equipment providers and support businesses to tap into new customer segments and expand revenue streams. This prospect has sparked considerable interest among foreign-led groups. Recent developments in the market highlight local MNOs collaborative efforts through agreements to share 5G infrastructure and partnerships with developers and service providers specialising in 5G network infrastructure. Industry leaders such as Ericsson, Intel, Qualcomm, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) are actively vying to capitalise. Ericsson, leveraging three decades of tech leadership in Vietnam, has been pivotal in driving digital transformation across the country. Through its networks, Ericsson has connected communities nationwide, empowering industries and catalysing Vietnams evolution into a vibrant digital economy. The company continues to collaborate closely with MNOs and service providers to fortify critical infrastructure, integral to realising the governments vision. Celebrating a quarter-century in Vietnam, Huawei has cultivated an extensive ecosystem of over 200 local partners, supported five major telecom carriers, and served more than 400 enterprise clients. Nokia has forged partnerships with leading communication service providers in Vietnam, laying the groundwork for sustained 5G expansion through the deployment of base stations and collaborative initiatives. The company is currently collaborating with a local provider to prepare ports, residential areas, and businesses for widespread 5G adoption. AWS has bolstered its footprint in Vietnam since establishing legal entities in Ho Chi Minh City in 2017 and Hanoi in 2019. The companys expanding network of partners spans major Vietnamese corporations like Masan Group and VietJet Air, along with financial institutions such as VIB, Techcombank, and VPBank. AWSs strategy centres on substantial investments in nurturing local talent and expanding infrastructure. To ensure the successful commercialisation of 5G in Vietnam and enhance its appeal, several critical prerequisites must be met. These include substantial investments in infrastructure, streamlined regulatory frameworks, emulation of successful use cases adapted to local contexts, and other essential factors. 5G opportunities opening for enterprises in Vietnam Ericsson is working with mobile service providers to ensure Vietnam is at the forefront of 5G developments. Rita Mokbel, head of Ericsson Vietnam, discussed with VIRs Bich Thuy how the groups strengthened portfolio and global experiences can accelerate the 5G journey of enterprises in Vietnam. 5G subscriptions in Asia Pacific continue to grow Consumers in Asia Pacific continue to migrate to 5G, with the increase in subscriptions being driven by more affordable devices, promotional plans, discounts, and large data bundles from service providers, according to the latest edition of the Ericsson Mobility Report released on June 27. Thanh Cong Textile Garment Investment Trading (TCG), based in Ho Chi Minh Citys Tan Phu district, has signed about 90 per cent of revenue for Q3s order intake and about 86 per cent for Q4. TCG chairman Tran Nhu Tung said, We have secured more orders, yet the export price remains quite low. Hence, we are cautious with order placement. In my view, this time is not so optimistic, but still better compared to one year ago. Tung revealed that for textile and garment firms, it is now essential to constantly improve to reduce costs and accelerate the pace of production, as well as boost green and digital transformation to keep abreast of new consumption trends. In the recent past, TCG has put into operation an enterprise resource planning project for optimisation of production, business, and the management process, from there connecting to more customers while brining utmost benefits to shareholders and investors, said Tung. In the first six months of 2024, TCG raked in $74.4 million in cumulative revenue, up 12 per cent on-year and equal to 47 per cent of full-year revenue. Its cumulative post-tax profit surpassed $5.8 million in H1, showing a 29 per cent jump on-year and equal 85 per cent of the full-year plan. Elsewhere, TNG Investment and Trading, based in Thai Nguyen province in Vietnams northeast, has released its Q2s business results, counting $90.5 million in net revenue, up 9 per cent on-year, and nearly $3.6 million in post-tax profit, soaring 62 per cent on-year. Generally in H1, the company posted $147 million in revenue and $5.3 million in post-tax profit, up 6 per cent in revenue and 37 per cent in profit compared to one year ago. A TNG source revealed that a spike in the companys operational revenue in H1 was attributable to its concentration on executing complex product line-ups. Exports to new markets made a remarkable contribution to the companys revenue growth during the period, the source said. Meanwhile, Dony Garment Co., Ltd., based in Ho Chi Minh Citys Binh Chanh district, gained a 20-30 per cent hikeinrevenue in H1. According to the companys marketing director Dao My Linh, the upbeat results were the fruition of the leaderships strenuous efforts for trade promotion since last year. Linh also noted that the continued complexity of the global geopolitical situation and importers cautious approach have made export firms like them keep a close eye on the order intake situation, transport fees, and input material factors to ensure production and meeting partners requirements. In recent years, we took on export orders of big volumes and accepted lower profits to maintain long-term cooperation. Keeping a good price following the value chain is an advantage to bolster the product competitiveness. We have been working with the suppliers in the value chain; each firm willingly presents a good price and accepts a lower profit for a win-win in the whole value chain, said Linh. Figures from the Vietnam General Department of Customs show that Vietnams total export value of textile and garment items in H1 this year surpassed $16.52 billion, up 5.04 per cent on-year. The Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association forecasts the textile and garment sector will continue to enjoy positive signs in the second half and the sectors total export value might exceed the $44 billion mark this year. Authorities request response to Chinese apparel rules The Ministry of Industry and Trade has emphasised the significance of China implementing a ruling on the third-party inspection of apparel products, particularly as exports to the market continue to decline. Thai Nguyen proactive in its green growth journey Thai Nguyen province in Vietnams northeast is making strides to expedite socioeconomic development hand-in-hand with green growth. Hanoi Department of Information and Communications held a conference on July 22 attended by representatives from many city departments and sectors, as well as leading AI solution providers in Vietnam such as Mobifone Global, MISA, BKAV, Viettel, and FPT. Nguyen Viet Hung, director of Hanoi Department of Information and Communications (HDIC) said, "We hope to advise the city on establishing a big data and AI advisory council to assist Hanoi in its socioeconomic development and ensure national defence and security." Nguyen Viet Hung, director, Hanoi Department of Information and Communications Debating the applicability of Generative AI (GenAI) in public administration, professor Nguyen Le Minh, an AI expert, said, "GenAI can automate many processes from text processing and automatic email responses to handling citizen requests, thereby reducing time and costs while improving work efficiency. GenAI can also provide automated services such as virtual assistants to help citizens find information or submit online applications." "GenAI's predictive models can help the government make more rational public policies based on real data. For example, GenAI can analyse socioeconomic data to forecast trends and support development planning. Additionally, GenAI can be used to detect fraudulent behaviour in administrative transactions and protect citizens' personal data and information," Minh added. At the event, Vu Phi Long, general director of MobiFone Global Technology JSC, introduced the MCentralized Smart Centralised Camera Management Solution. MCentralized is an intelligent, centralised camera management platform that helps connect over 99 per cent of different camera lines, applying AI technology for accurate and secure image analysis. The advantage of this solution lies in its facial recognition technology and number plate recognition. "This model can be fully applied at four levels from village, commune, district, to city. The integration of AI in this solution is for facial recognition, vehicle number plate recognition, behaviour detection, and fire explosion warnings," said Long. Prof. Ho Tu Bao from the Institute of Advanced Mathematics Research also proposed ideas for effective and synchronous AI operation, saying "For AI applications to be truly beneficial for Hanoi, they need to be placed in the digital transformation ecosystem of the capital linked with national programmes. Additionally, to strengthen Hanoi's AI capabilities, it is crucial to link and coordinate with technology institutes and businesses, organise advisory councils, and AI working groups." Speaking about the future direction AI implementation in smart city projects, Nguyen Viet Hung, director of the HDIC, said, "The HDIC will soon advise Hanoi People's Committee to establish an AI application advisory council, from which to take basic long-term steps as well as quick, timely actions that can bring benefits to the residents." The HDIC advised the committee in February, to issue Plan No.57/KH-UBND on digital transformation and building Hanoi into a smart city. The plan includes tasks to develop digital data and build and develop specialised applications using AI technology for the internal operations of the city's state agencies. Smart city training programmes seek to enhance capacity for future development While more than 40 cities and provinces across the country have smart city operation centres, many experts believe that urban development progress still falls short of expectations and call for better training programmes for future management. Hanoi to develop smart city in green, harmonious direction The Hanoi Peoples Committee has approved the adjustments of the detailed planning for the construction of a smart city in the area along the Nhat Tan Noi Bai road with about 140.23 hectares in the citys outskirts district of Dong Anh. Indonesia has encouraged the Republic of Korea to cooperate with ASEAN in the development of electric vehicles (Photo: AFP/VNA) Jakarta Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Masurdi encouraged the Republic of Korea (RoK) to cooperate with ASEAN in the development of electric vehicles (EVs) at the recent ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) with the RoK in Vientiane, Laos. This is a follow-up to the ASEAN Plus Three Leaders' Statement on the Developing Electric Vehicle Ecosystem agreed upon by the Leaders of ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan, and ROK) last year, during Indonesia's chairmanship of ASEAN. According to the Indonesian diplomat, to create a greener region in the future, it is important for ASEAN to be able to enhance its capacity in using and creating the latest technology, especially EVs. Masurdi suggested ASEAN RoK cooperation in the area could be carried out through leveraging the comparative advantages of ASEAN member states, persifying investments, especially for electric vehicle infrastructure, developing technical standards, attracting private sector participation, and creating a strong electric vehicle ecosystem and supply chain. The ASEAN electric vehicle market continues to grow. This year, its value reached 1.14 billion USD. By 2029, this market is projected to reach 4.70 billion USD. Indonesia searches for missing vessel Indonesian authorities on July 22 announced that rescue teams are searching for a cargo ship and its 12 crew members, who have been missing since last week in the waters off Papua, in the easternmost region of the country. Indonesia media highlights Party General Secretarys great role in Vietnam's renewal process Indonesian news agencies and newspapers have run articles highlighting the great contributions of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to national construction and development in Vietnam. Investors to embrace stock market refresh, Photo: Dung Minh The initiative is part of a broader effort to elevate Vietnam from a frontier market to an emerging market in 2025, as outlined in a new draft circular released last week. Currently, foreign investors must pre-fund 100 per cent of their transactions, a major barrier that rating agencies have urged Vietnam to address. The proposed amendments, now open for public consultation by the State Securities Commission, would eliminate this requirement, the draft circular stated. Instead, brokerage firms will assess the risk to determine the necessary margin for foreign institutional investors when placing buy orders. If a foreign institution fails to complete the payment, the brokerage firm will assume the remaining liability, potentially selling the shares or transferring ownership outside the system. Additionally, the new draft mandates that listed companies, public companies, stock exchanges, and the Vietnam Securities Depository must publish information in English, ensuring consistency with the Vietnamese version. In a seminar hosted by VIR on the stock market last week, Le Thi Le Hang, chief strategy officer at SSI Securities Corporation, offered some optimism about the current trajectory. Foreign investors view Vietnams stock market as having significant growth potential due to its young population, high GDP growth compared to neighbouring markets, and robust foreign direct investment inflows, she noted. Despite these positive factors, foreign investors have pointed out several challenges, including the current pre-funding requirement, which deviates from international norms, making it difficult for foreign investors to transact efficiently. The limited foreign ownership cap also restricts investment options. For example, the VN30 index has not seen any new additions. This limits foreign investors, who want to allocate more capital to the Vietnamese market, as they wait for expanded room to increase liquidity, she said. Foreign investors are still hopeful that Vietnams stock market will be upgraded to an emerging market status. When this happens, their investment boards will increase allocations to Vietnam. Hang noted that in the first half of 2024, foreign investors have net withdrawn approximately $2 billion. Conversely, an upgrade could allure a similar amount back into the market. If investors anticipate that Vietnams stock market will be upgraded, meeting FTSE or MSCI criteria, they might act preemptively and enter the market immediately, she added. However, this depends on whether we have new developments, such as improvements in the quality of securities and the introduction of new products. If the process goes smoothly, Vietnam could be included in the emerging market index by March 2026. She further elaborated that if Vietnam achieves an FTSE upgrade by September 2025, the actual inclusion in the emerging market index would follow within 6-12 months. Assuming favourable feedback from foreign investors regarding the current bottlenecks, Vietnams stock market could become more vibrant by late 2025, Hang said. Nguyen Thi Thu Hien, CEO of Techcom Securities, also advocated for the implementation of a sandbox model to trial new securities products in Vietnam. Hien suggested selecting a few robust securities firms and financial intermediaries to pilot structured products for the market. Investors participating in this model should be chosen based on their market knowledge and ability to make informed decisions and take responsibility for them. This approach will allow us to trial new products in the market, she said. When engaging with the delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, they also recommended that Vietnam introduce new products, many of which are already available in other global markets but not yet in Vietnam. We proposed the sandbox pilot model as the only way to help our market catch up with others in the region, Hien stressed. The future of Vietnams securities market will not be limited to stocks, bonds, and fund certificates. It will include a wider array of investment products, she added. This diversification aligns with the increasing proportion of investors allocating to financial assets. The Vietnams stock market: new dynamics, new opportunities seminar was supported by Kinh Bac City Development Holding Corporation, Bamboo Capital Group, Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical, and SSI Securities Corporation. At a VIR talk show on the trend of investment in industrial parks (IPs) in the last days of July, experts said that Vietnams advantages are dipping due to increasing costs of land rent. Truong An Duong, general manager of North Vietnam and Residential for Frasers Property Vietnam, said that demands on IPs have been rising sharply over the last 5-7 years thanks to numerous advantages such as China+1 relocations, affordable labour, free trade agreements, and development of transport infrastructure. "However, the land rent prices are going up quickly, even higher than that in Thailand's IPs, so the competitiveness on costs is mitigating and affecting the growth of the market," Duong emphasised. Dinh Hoai Nam, director and head of Business Development at SLP Vietnam, said that Vietnam is still in the spotlight in its long-term plans. However, some challenges are ahead due to the high increase in land prices. "Total land and labour costs in Vietnam may be higher than in China. However, numerous businesses and investors still choose Vietnam as a backup plan, and Vietnam's incentives are quite attractive," Nam said. For secondary investors like SLP, rising costs are causing some headaches. "It is quite hard for us to find golden land plots at affordable prices, so input costs are going up quickly, and output prices cannot be controlled despite our short-term support to renters. Investment efficiency is getting lower," Nam added. According to a report from CBRE in early July, industrial land prices in tier 1 markets in the north in the second quarter increased by 0.3 per cent on quarter and 4.5 per cent on year, reaching an average of $135 per square metre. Meanwhile, industrial land prices in tier 1 markets in the south remained steady at just over $170 per sq.m per quarter. This represents no change from the previous quarter and a modest 1 per cent increase on-year. In the next three years, industrial land rental prices are expected to increase by 5-8 per cent annually in the north and by 3-7 per cent in the south. Van Nguyen, transactions head for Northern Vietnam at JLL, reviewed the changes in the process of IP development. In the north, before 2015, IP developers sold land plots for businesses/ investors to build their factories. Since then, the market has become more vibrant with the entrance of secondary developers and ready-built factories. "This time, most factories had a small scale at 2,000-5,000sq.m to meet the demand of investors that relocated from China and needed factories and big support to carry out their production as soon as possible," Van said. "In the last few years, relocated investors have asked for larger areas for factories at about 10,000sq.m or even up to 30,000sq.m, along with stricter requirements." Duong from Frasers pointed out the increasing relevant of eco-IPs, service and urban hubs, smart IPs, and integrated facilities that cover logistics, warehouses, and ports. "Infrastructure on electricity and telecoms should be invested in and updated to meet the demand of development in the upcoming years. At the same time, state authorities and administrative procedures should be improved for businesses and investors. This will help Vietnam and its IPs to enhance competitiveness and lure more investment," Duong said. Ready-built factory market on the up In the first half of 2024, the industrial real estate market continued to show positive developments. KTG Industrial breaks ground on new phase of Yen Phong IIC KTG Industrial officially held a groundbreaking ceremony for phase 2 of KTG Industrial Yen Phong IIC in Bac Ninh province's Yen Phong Industrial Park on July 10. Vietnam's industrial property sector to benefit from stable growth of FDI Vietnam's industrial property segment is continuing to benefit directly from a steady increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), according to a report by ACB Securities (ACBS). Businesses increase wishes for specialised industrial parks Vietnams industrial areas must evolve into more specialised types to meet the increasingly diverse needs of multinational tenants. In the second quarter, Masan Groups net revenue reached VND20.13 trillion ($795.2 million), an 8.2 per cent increase from $735.14 million in H1/2023, driven by robust topline performance in core consumer-retail businesses. In the first half of the year, Masan Group's revenue and profit grew strongly, with the company earning $8.45 million per day. Masan Consumer Corporation (MSC) delivered 14 per cent on-year revenue growth in H1/2024 to VND7.4 $292.32 million, driven by convenience foods (up 20.7 per cent on-year), beverages (up 17.6 per cent on-year), and coffee (up 16 per cent on-year). Masan Consumer maintained gross margin at a relatively high level of 46.3 per cent, driven by power brands and premium acceleration and commanding pricing power in the context of lower raw material costs. Net profit after tax post minority interest (NPAT Post-MI) margin recorded 24.2 per cent. WinCommerce (WCM) reported 9.2 per cent on-year revenue growth in 2Q/2024 to reach revenue of $309.7 million across the whole network, mainly driven by new store formats of WIN (catering to urban shoppers) and Winmart+ Rural (catering to rural shoppers), with 6.3 per cent and 10.7 per cent like-for-like (LFL) on-year growth, respectively. LFL growth accelerated to 6.8 per cent in 2Q/2024 and to 9.7 per cent in June, primarily driven by an increase in traffic. WinCommerce reported NPAT-positive in June 2024, providing a clear pathway to sustainable profitability. As of June 2024, WinCommerce operated 3,673 WinCommerce stores, a net opening of 40 new stores since December 2023 as management exercised prudence amid uncertainty in the operating environment. WinCommerce expects to accelerate store openings in 2H/2024. In 2Q/2024, WinCommerce recorded $6.79 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA), up 11.1 per cent on-year. Excluding the one-off profit from financial product distribution pilot in 2023, EBITDA increased by 33 per cent on-year. Masan MEATLife delivered $4.15 million on-year uplift in earnings before interest and taxes in 2Q/2024, reporting the second consecutive quarter of positive earnings, driven by increased sales mix from processed meat while benefiting from higher chicken and pork market prices and declining feed costs. Masan MEATLife continues its mission to revolutionise the under-developed Vietnamese processed meat market with tasty, healthy, high quality, non-additive products, with the two Love Brands Ponnie and Heo Cao Boi having captured about half of the respective market share in the sterilised sausage market. Phuc Long Heritage (PLH)s net revenue grew by 5.3 per cent on-year to $15.45 million in 2Q/2024, mainly driven by contribution from 15 new stores opened since 2Q/2023. Management continued to maintain a prudent approach with four new stores outside WinCommerce added to the network in 2Q/2024, now standing at 163 stores nationwide. LFL daily sales of Phuc Long Heritage stores outside WinCommerce increased by 2.4 per cent from the trough in 4Q/2023, signalling recovering domestic demand for food services. Masan High-Tech (MHT) Materials earnings improved by $7.62 million, supported by increasing APT and copper prices. The sale of H.C. Starck Holding GmbH to Mitsubishi Materials Corporation for an equity purchase price of $134.5 million is expected to close before year-end 2024, upon which Masan High-Tech Materials is expected to book a one-time profit gain of approximately $40 million in the second half of 2024 and benefits from long-term NPAT uplift of 20-30 million. Transaction proceeds will be used to reduce MHTs outstanding debt balance, whilst the deconsolidation of HCS also means MHT is relieved from HCSs pension liabilities of approximately $190 million as of 2Q/2024. Techcombank, Masans associated company, contributed $48.9 million in EBITDA in 2Q/2024, representing 38.5 per cent on-year growth. In 2Q/2024, EBITDA reached VND3.82 trillion in 2Q/2024, increasing by 20.9 per cent on-year. NPAT Post-MI of $19.87 in 2Q/2024 is up 378.6 per cent on-year, surpassing FY2023 NPAT Post-MI $16.55 million, driven by improvements across consumer retail businesses, the recovery of non-core/non-operating activities in 2Q/2023, and $5.45 million lower in debt-incurring net financial expenses. Masan Consumer continues to deliver double-digit top and bottom-line growth, while our other consumer platforms start to reach sustainable profitability levels WinCommerce delivered profit in June and Masan MEATLife achieved positive earnings for the second straight quarter. We are confident in delivering our 2024 profit guidance and growing profitably in the short and medium term to deliver superior shareholder returns," said Nguyen Dang Quang, chairman of Masan Group. Masan eyes global expansion, WinCommerce to reach 4,000 stores by 2024 Masan Group Corporation, along with its publicly listed affiliates Masan Consumer and Masan MEATLife, convened their 2024 AGM in Ho Chi Minh City on April 26, projecting a unified vision titled "Consumer of Things". Mitsubishi Materials Corporation spends $134.5 million acquiring H.C. Starck Mitsubishi Materials Corporation will acquire 100 per cent of H.C. Starck Holding (Germany) GmbH from Masan High-Tech Materials Group for an equity purchase price of $134.5 million. VENEZUELA: Maduro declared victor of Venezuelas disputed presidential election Election authority says Maduro, who faced a stiff test from a unified opposition, secured 51 percent of the vote. Incumbent Nicolas Maduro has been declared the winner of Sundays presidential election in Venezuela, but the opposition said they were preparing to dispute the results. Elvis Amoroso, president of the CNE electoral authority, said Maduro secured a third six-year term with 51.2 percent of the vote. Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who had been leading in opinion polls, got 44.2 percent, he said. Keep reading South Africas ruling ANC expels ex-president Zuma for backing rival party Stark split in world reactions to disputed Venezuela election Venezuelas Maduro wins another disputed election Venezuela election results updates: Maduro declared winner in disputed vote The electoral authority, which is controlled by Maduro loyalists, did not immediately release the tallies from each of the 30,000 polling stations nationwide. Opposition representatives said earlier that tallies they collected from campaign representatives at the centres had shown Gonzalez trouncing Maduro. In comments shortly after the announcement, Maduro said his re-election was a triumph of peace and stability and reiterated his campaign trail claims that the voting system was transparent. Maduro, 61, first won power in 2013 after his mentor, socialist President Hugo Chavez, died from cancer. He has been accused of locking up critics and harassing the opposition and has failed to end a years-long economic crisis that has prompted more than seven million of Venezuelas 30 million citizens to emigrate. The opposition campaigned on a promise to end the economic crisis and exit polls suggested they stood a strong chance of beating Maduro. Gonzalez replaced popular opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on the ticket after authorities loyal to Maduro excluded her from the race. Machado, who campaigned far and wide for her proxy, had urged voters late on Sunday to keep vigil at their polling stations in the decisive hours of counting amid widespread fears of fraud. She said Gonzalez had won 70 percent of the vote. We want the whole world to know that we won in every sector and every state in the country. We know what happened today. Weve been making sure all the information was collected and reported. This shows the results. It is irrefutable, Corina Machado told a rally. Gonzalez, also disputing the official results, told supporters in Caracas the government had violated all rules and norms to an extent that we were denied seeing most of the ballots. Our struggle continues and well not rest until the will of the Venezuelan people is respected, said Gonzalez, though emphasising that he would not call his supporters to take to the streets or carry out acts of violence. Violation Sundays election was the product of a deal last year between the government and opposition. That agreement led the United States to temporarily ease sanctions imposed after Maduros 2018 re-election, which was rejected as a sham by dozens of Western and Latin American countries. The sanctions were reinstated after Maduro reneged on agreed conditions, and Washington did not welcome the announced results. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern at the declaration of Maduros victory and said that the US wanted the votes to be counted fairly and transparently. We have serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people, he said. The EU and several member states have also expressed concern over the transparency of the vote. Analysts and leaders throughout the Americas also expressed scepticism, although some did offer support to Maduro. Everything we have seen so far indicates the results of the government are just produced, Phil Gunson, the International Crisis Groups senior analyst for Venezuela, told Al Jazeera. He claimed the tallies announced by the government-controlled electoral authority did not correspond to the votes cast. The result that the opposition claims is the correct one corresponds very closely to what opinion polls have been saying for the last several months, Gunson said. All the partial results we have seen so far indicate the opposition got something like three-fifths of the vote. Francisco Rodriguez, a professor of international and public affairs at Denver University, said the Venezuelan opposition must document any alleged fraud and make their findings public. It has to publish [the individual] polling station results and show how those are inconsistent with what the electoral authorities are showing, Rodriguez told Al Jazeera on Monday morning. Both Costa Ricas President Rodrigo Chaves and Perus Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez-Olaechea rejected the official election results as fraudulent. Lima recalled its ambassador to Caracas due to the violation of the popular will. Chiles President Gabriel Boric described the results as hard to believe while Uruguays President Luis Lacalle Pou said the counting was clearly flawed. Advertisement However, Maduro did enjoy support from allies in Bolivia, Honduras and Cuba. Cubas President Miguel Diaz-Canel said Maduro had cleanly and unequivocally defeated the pro-imperialist opposition. Chinas foreign ministry also offered its congratulations to Maduro on his re-election. To read original article, please click HERE On July 26, the seminar themed "Promoting green innovation in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam", hosted by the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) and the Embassy of Denmark to Vietnam, looked at issues in green innovation, The seminar focused on systematising and clarifying basic concepts and analytical frameworks for boosting green innovation in SMEs, with proposed directions for future solutions. During their research, experts have worked with 30 businesses in various cities and provinces, including Hai Duong, Haiphong, Dong Thap, Dong Nai, Hue, and Lam Dong, and conducted surveys to assess the current state of green innovation among SMEs. In Vietnam, green innovation is gaining significant attention, and is being implemented among enterprises of all sizes, including SMEs. Enterprises engaged in green innovation have emerged across various sectors such as agriculture, consumer goods sector, waste treatment, and food processing, said Nguyen Hoa Cuong, deputy director of the CIEM. Nguyen Thi Luyen, head of the Economic Institution Research Department at the CIEM said, "Green innovation helps businesses access markets, increase profitability along the value chain, meet increasingly stringent standards and regulations, attract investment, and enhance productivity and technological capacity." However, the CIEM report points out that green innovation activities in SMEs are still quite limited. "Due to the low technology content in SMEs, these enterprises mainly engage in 'green innovation' by using input materials and applying circular processes. The number of enterprises actually implementing greener technological innovations is still not significant," it said. Notable policies include investment incentives and support for funding and credit as stipulated in the Law on Investment 2020, the Law on Science and Technology 2013, and the Law on Economical and Efficient Use of Energy. There are also preferential policies and support regarding taxes and fees such as corporate income tax, VAT, import-export tax, and incentives for land and water surface rental. "The government is gradually helping and encouraging businesses, especially SMEs, to implement green innovation," said To Hoai Nam, vice president and general secretary of the Vietnam Association of SMEs. "A general policy framework to promote innovation in general and green innovation in particular has been established, and support organisations have been formed." In addition, financial and non-financial policy solutions have been implemented to support and motivate SMEs in green innovation such as communication, promotion, technical support, and trade promotion. Commenting on the report published at the seminar, Cung Trong Cuong, director of Thua Thien-Hue Institute for Development Studies, proposed additional content for the next phase of the research programme to effectively apply or develop policies for the development of businesses towards green innovation and transitioning to a green economy. Hanoi launches Green Innovation Awards On December 14, the Vietnam Environment Administration (VEA) and the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union launched the first Green Innovation Awards in Hanoi. CPTPP impacts on small and medium enterprises Luong Hoang Thai, director general of the Multilateral Trade Policy Department, under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, speaks to Vietnam News Agency about the likely benefits and impacts of the CPTPP on the countrys economy. Speaking at a VIR talk show, Dinh Hoai Nam, director and head of Business Development at SLP Vietnam, said, Vietnam is a bright spot for foreign companies to implement their relocation and contingency plans. The country offers a quite good policy to woo foreign investors. SLP has invested in China, Japan, the United States, and Europe. Through GLP's observations and assessments, we believe that Vietnam is still a good market in the long term. It is the reason why SLP ventures into Vietnam. Over the past four years, we have stepped up our expansion from zero to 11 projects. SLP has a set of criteria and makes a complete analysis for evaluating a potential location. However, the company always takes the market factor into consideration. Specifically, manufacturers and developers mainly focus on the first tier markets, including Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, Hung Yen, and Vinh Phuc in the north, as well as Ho Chi Minh City, Long An, Dong Nai, and Binh Duong in the south. These markets already have demand for industrial properties, alongside the available labour source, land funds, existing infrastructure, and connectivity ecosystem. Thus, investors can quickly kick-start their operations. After securing a strong footprint in these markets, we are scouting for investment opportunities in tier 2 and 3 markets, Nam said. "By investing in non-traditional markets, we hope to optimise costs for investors. When comparing industrial park locations, we will look at two decisive factors, including the investor's reputation and the legality. If the investor is not reputable and the legality is not guaranteed, it will be risky to make an investment and get a return on investment. Another factor is the project implementation and financial capacity of the investor. Dinh Hoai Nam, director and head of Business Development at SLP Vietnam One important factor is the integration of environmental, social, and governance factors. SLP and foreign investors are selecting industrial parks with the operation, management, and vision in line with sustainable development trends, he added. Besides opportunities, there remain challenges regarding the soaring prices of industrial real estate in several localities. A number of tenants have noted that the sum of land, labour, and other expenses in Vietnam can be higher than in China. However, they are still making the move as part of the China+1 strategy and the unpredictable geopolitical environment. It is hard for developers to find and secure a good location. There are some downsides, as industrial property price hikes will lead to increasing input and output prices for tenants and manufacturers. To address these challenges, SLP has offered short-term policies to support tenants, which in turn lower our investment efficiency, Nam said. He added that the price hike was a short-term challenge. In the long term, the government and investors need to find ways to resolve the issue to ensure competitive investment costs compared with many other regional peers such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. SLPs sustainable development in logistics SEA Logistics Vietnam, an industrial infrastructure developer and GLPs operational platform in Southeast Asia, is making significant strides in integrating sustainability at the core of its business operations. SLP Vietnam inaugurates rural road solar lighting project in Long An SLP Vietnam and Long An Youth Union celebrated the inauguration of the "Bright - Green - Clean - Beautiful - Safe" rural road solar lighting initiative on April 17 along Kenh T6 street, Tan Thanh commune in the Mekong Delta province of Long An. In a meeting held on July 26 focused on refining the draft decree for promoting self-produced and self-consumed rooftop solar power, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha instructed the ministry (MoIT) to assess the situation. A 20 per cent purchase rate is a notable increase from the 10 per cent initially proposed for the central and southern regions of Vietnam. Accordingly, the DPMs adjustment is a departure from its initial proposal of compensating for 10 per cent of the surplus electricity fed into the national grid. Previously, the MoIT had also set the purchase price at VND671 (2.5 US cents) per kWh. However, in alignment with the new directives, they are now contemplating adopting net metering or the lowest bid price in a competitive electricity market at the time of purchase. The dialogue also covered the integration of safety standards and fire prevention measures to streamline procedural and documentation processes under clear policy directives. The German Development Agency (GIZ) has previously highlighted concerns that limiting power feeds into the grid could retard the growth of the rooftop solar market and escalate future power shortages. "Occasionally, systems are installed with minimal capacities, failing to utilise available roof space fully, which leads to inefficiencies and underutilisation of the sectors potential," remarked GIZ. GIZ recommends that rooftop solar installations be designed to accommodate appropriate capacity scales to prevent surplus production and facilitate efficient partial grid feed-in systems. "Feed-in limits should be adaptable, modifiable based on the real-time operations of the power system and current electricity demands," the agency advised. Rooftop solar investor Nguyen Thanh Nam told local media, "The current cap on feeding only 10-20 per cent of generated capacity into the grid is excessively restrictive. There's a consensus among investors for a potential increase up to 30 per cent, alongside necessary price adjustments to ensure the financial viability of such investments." Nam also criticised the proposed purchase price of 2.47 US cents/kWh as insufficient. "It's merely a third of the rates offered under the earlier schemes, whereas the investment cost for 1 kWp of rooftop solar is estimated at VND 9-11 million ($360-440), he said. "Households predominantly active during peak evening hours due to daytime work commitments see little to no benefit from these installations. Conversely, those with higher electricity requirements or intentions to enter the electricity market demand higher prices to counterbalance their upfront costs." Responding to inquiries, a senior official from the Department of Electricity and Renewable Energy at the MoIT stated that the agency would persist in refining its strategies following the DPM Has guidelines. "Rooftop solar development must be in harmony with the National Power Development Plan VIII, the official stated. The approved grid-connected power capacity stands at 2,600MW, yet the plan targets 50 per cent of public buildings and residential structures to adopt rooftop solar by 2030, without imposing a capacity cap. "The percentage of capacity that can be integrated into the grid needs meticulous calculation and evaluation to align with the national planning. Additionally, regional capacity percentages will be scrutinised to prevent discrimination and guarantee equitable benefits for the public and businesses," the official emphasised. "The ultimate objective is to finalise a decree on self-produced and self-consumed rooftop solar that not only encourages participation and simplifies processes but also minimises investment costs while preventing negative societal impacts and resource wastage," he added. Two 4-year-old boys and a 72-year-old woman are dead after a pontoon boat flipped on Lake Powell in Arizona. The National Park Service says the accident took place Friday afternoon in the Glen Canyon Regional Recreation Area. A 25-foot privately owned pontoon vessel was being towed by another boater in Navajo Canyon, when waves contributed to the towed vessel capsizing. Several of the 11 passengers became trapped under the overturned vessel. Park Rangers responded and saw one person on top of the pontoon boat and others in the water. Others were still unaccounted for. Nearby boaters assisted in helping the victims out of the water. Emergency medical attention was provided on scene by Glen Canyon Rangers and Page Fire Department personnel. Two other patients were transported by Classic Air Medical helicopter and the Page Fire Department ambulance for further medical treatment. The 72-year-old victim was identified as Melissa Bean. The two children's identities were not immediately released. The incident is under investigation by the National Park Service, Coconino County Sheriff's Office, and the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office. No further information was immediately available. Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (27 July 2024) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. The units of the Sever Group of Forces have defeated manpower and hardware of 42nd mechanised, 92nd assault, 71st infantry brigades of the AFU, the 36th Marine Brigade and the 125th Territorial Defence Brigade close to Liptsy, Tikhoye, Petrovka, Bayrak, and Volchansk (Kharkov region). Two counterattacks by formations of the 92nd Assault Brigade and the 57th Motorised Infantry Brigade of the AFU have been repelled. The enemy losses were up to 165 troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, two pickup trucks, one U.S.-made 155mm M777 howitzer, four 122-mm D-30 howitzers, and two ammunition depots. The units of the Zapad Group of Forces have improved their position along the front line and also defeated formations of 30th, 44th, 67th, 116th mechanised brigades of the AFU, the 12th Azov Special Operations Brigade, the 110th Territorial Defence Brigade, and the 1st National Guard Brigade close to Sinkovka, Tabayevka (Kharkov region), Makeyevka, Nevskoye, Stelmakhovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Krasny Liman (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Russian troops have repelled an attack by an assault detachment of the 241st Territorial Defence Brigade. The AFU losses were up to 570 servicemen, one tank, one Kozak armoured fighting vehicle, four motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system launchers, and one U.K.-made 105-mm L-119 howitzer. In addition, one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare radar station has been destroyed. The units of the Yug Group of Forces have occupied more favourable lines and positions and defeated AFU 28th, 54th mechanised, 79th, 80th air assault and 46th airmobile brigades near Stupochki, Katerinovka, Maximilyanovka, and Seversk (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The AFU losses were up to 540 servicemen, four armoured fighting vehicles, and five motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, three 152-mm D-20 guns, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, two UK-made 105-mm L-119 guns, one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 gun have been destroyed. In addition, one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-battery radar station and Anklav-N electronic warfare station have been neutralised. The units of the Tsentr Group of Forces have liberated Lozovatskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). In addition, formations of 32nd, 53rd, 151st mechanised, 1st air assault, 59th motorised Infantry, and 68th infantry brigades of the AFU have been defeated near Toretsk, Ivanovka, Ukrainsk, Novgorodskoye, Shcherbinovka, and Novosyolovka Pervaya (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Russian troops have repelled three counterattacks by assault detachments of 31st, 151st mechanised, and 95th air assault brigades of the AFU. The enemy losses were up to 425 troops, one tank, two armoured personnel carriers, including one U.S.-made M113 APC, five motor vehicles, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and two 122-mm D-30 howitzers. The units of the Vostok Group of Forces have improved their position along the front line and defeated manpower and hardware of 123rd, 128th, and 129th territorial defence brigades close to Neskuchnoye, Vremyevka, and Velikaya Novosyolka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The enemy losses were up to 125 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, nine motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 gun, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-battery radar. The units of the Dnepr Group of Forces have defeated formations of 65th mechanised, 128th mountain assault, 141st infantry brigades of the AFU and the 35th Marine Brigade near Nesteryanka, Rabotino (Zaporozhye region), Tyaginka and Poniatovka (Kherson region). The enemy losses were up to 85 troops, four motor vehicles, one -N electronic warfare station, and one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery radar station. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have destroyed two electronic warfare stations, one aerial weapons depot, and one ammunition depot, as well as defeated AFU manpower and military hardware concentration areas in 124 areas. Air defence facilities have shot down 10 U.S.-made HIMARS projectiles and 81 unmanned aerial vehicles, including 37 out of the special military operation zone. In total, 630 airplanes, 278 helicopters, 28,545 unmanned aerial vehicles, 556 air defence missile systems, 16,698 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,390 fighting vehicles equipped with MLRS, 12,446 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 24,115 special military motor vehicles have been destroyed during the special military operation. Tags: WtR Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (28 July 2024) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. The Sever Group of Forces hit manpower and hardware of AFU 115th mechanised, 92nd assault, 71st infantry brigades close to Volchansk, Tikhoe, and Velikiye Prokhody (Kharkov region). Two counter-attacks were repelled close to Volchansk and Glubokoye (Kharkov region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 205 troops. One ammunition depot was wiped out. The Zapad Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line, defeated units of AFU 116th mechanised, 117th territorial defence, and 1st national guard brigades near Tabayevka, Kupyansk-Uzlovoyi (Kharkov region) and Krasny Liman (Donetsk Peoples Republic). One attack launched by an enemy assault group was repelled close to Torskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The AFU losses amounted to up to 540 Ukrainian troops, one U.S.-made Stryker armoured personnel carriers, and 16 motor vehicles. In the course of counterbattery warfare, two U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzers, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one 155-mm Bogdana self-propelled artillery system, and two Anklav-N electronic warfare stations were eliminated. Eight AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions, inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of AFU 24th, 54th mechanised, 79th air assault, 46th airmobile brigades, as well as the 12th Azov Special Forces Brigades near Kurakhovo, Katerinovka, Konstantinovka, Serebryanka, and Verkhnekamenskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The AFU losses amounted to up to 560 Ukrainian troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, and two motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, one U.S.-made 155-mm M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, two 152-mm D-20 howitzers, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 gun, and one Anklav-N electronic warfare station were eliminated. Two AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Tsentr Group of Forces liberated Progress and Yevgenovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic) during active operations. Units of AFU 28th, 31st, 32nd mechanised, and 142nd infantry brigades were hit near Dimitrov, Novogrodovka, Dzerzhinsk, Belaya Gora, and Zhelannoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Three counter-attacks launched by enemy assault groups were repelled. The AFU lost up to 385 Ukrainian troops and five motor vehicles. In addition, two U.S.-made 227-mm M270 multiple launch rocket systems, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, two 100-mm Rapira guns, and one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare radar were hit. The Vostok Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line, defeated manpower and hardware of AFU 72nd mechanised, 102nd and 104th territorial defence brigades near Ugledar (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Gulyaipole, and Novodarovka (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 140 Ukrainian troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, five motor vehicles, one UK-made FH-70 howitzer, and one 152-mm D-20 gun. Three AFU ammunition depots were destroyed. The Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on units of AFU 128th mountain assault, 141st infantry, and 35th marine brigades near Rabotino (Zaporozhye region), Tyaginka, and Ponyatovka (Kherson region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 100 Ukrainian troops, two U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzers, two 152-mm D-20 howitzers, and one D-30 howitzer. One ammunition depot was wiped out. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged one U.S.-made Patriot anti-aircraft missile station as well as clusters of manpower and military hardware in 138 areas. Air defence systems shot down five U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, two French-made Hammer aerial guided bombs, and 34 unmanned aerial vehicles, to include 12 outside the special military operation zone. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 630 aircraft and 278 helicopters, 28,579 unmanned aerial vehicles, 556 anti-aircraft missile systems, 16,702 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,392 MLRS combat vehicles, 12,469 field artillery guns and mortars, and 24,143 units of special military vehicles have been neutralised. Tags: WtR Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (2026 July 2024) From 20 to 26 July, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have carried out 33 group strikes with precision-guided weapons and strike drones, as a result of which the following have been hit: facilities of the Ukrainian military industrial enterprises for the manufacture of gunpowder, the production and repair of armoured vehicles, and the energy infrastructure that supplied them. In addition, UAV assembly facilities, ammunition and missile artillery weapon depots, military echelons with AFU hardware and military personnel as well as temporary deployment areas for foreign mercenaries have been hit. Over the past week, the units of the Sever Group of Forces have improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of two AFU mechanised, motorised, and assault brigades, two marine brigades, three territorial defence brigades, and formations of the Ukrainian National Guard. In addition, 21 enemy counter-attacks have been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 1,385 Ukrainian troops, five U.S.-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, and 24 motor vehicles. In addition, two Croatian-made RAK-SA-12 MLRS launchers, 23 field artillery guns, including five U.S.-made M777 howitzers as well as three field ammunition depots have been eliminated. As a result of successful actions, the units of the Zapad Group of Forces have liberated Rozovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Peschanoye (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Nizhneye (Kharkov region), and have taken more advantageous lines and positions. Russian troops have defeated units of six brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as three territorial defence formations. Nine counter-attacks of enemy assault detachments have been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 3,640 Ukrainian troops, four tanks, including one German-made Leopard tank, 10 armoured fighting vehicles, including four U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, and 68 motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, 36 field artillery guns, including nine Western-made self-propelled artillery systems, and 155-mm howitzers have been hit. Eight electronic and counter-battery warfare stations and 21 field ammunition depots have been eliminated. As a result of active operations, the units of the Yug Group of Forces have liberated Ivano-Daryevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and improved positions along the front line. Russian troops have launched strikes on manpower and hardware of five mechanised, two airmobile, and four assault brigades of the AFU. Six enemy counter-attacks have been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 4,640 Ukrainian troops, six tanks, 23 armoured fighting vehicles, including two U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, and 44 motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, 64 field artillery pieces have been hit, 37 of them were Western-made, 12 electronic and counter-battery warfare stations as well as 13 field ammunition depots. The units of the Tsentr Group of Forces have improved its tactical position. Russian troops have launched strikes on eight formations of the AFU, two territorial defence brigades, and two Lut assault brigades of the National Police of Ukraine. Forty-two counter-attacks of AFU assault detachments have been repelled. Over the past week, the enemy losses were up to 2,525 troops, five tanks, including two U.S.-made Abrams tanks, 10 armoured fighting vehicles, 24 motor vehicles, 30 field artillery guns, and nine field ammunition depots. The units of the Vostok Group of Forces have taken more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of two AFU brigades, two territorial defence formations, and two Ukrainian National Guard brigades. The AFU losses were up to 835 Ukrainian troops, two tanks, 30 motor vehicles, 23 field artillery guns, including 12 howitzers and 155-mm self-propelled artillery systems manufactured in NATO countries as well as six electronic warfare stations. The units of the Dnepr Group of Forces have inflicted fire damage on mechanised, infantry, mountain assault brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, one marine brigade, three territorial defence brigades and National Guard brigades. The AFU losses were up to 100 Ukrainian troops, one tank, three armoured fighting vehicles, and four motor vehicles. In addition, during counter-battery warfare, 18 field artillery guns, including five U.S.-made M777 howitzers, six electronic warfare stations, and six field ammunition depots have been hit. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have eliminated two U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS launchers, seven Grad MLRS launchers, two launchers with the AN/MPQ-65 radar station of the U.S.-made Patriot SAM system, two S-300 SAM system launchers, and two ST-68 and P-18 mobile radar stations for detecting and tracking air targets. Air defence facilities have shot down one Mi-8 helicopter of the Ukrainian Air Force, ten U.S.-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles, two Tochka-U tactical missiles, nine French-made Hammer aerial bombs, 36 U.S.-made HIMARS projectiles, and 623 unmanned aerial vehicles. Over the past week, 63 Ukrainian servicemen have surrendered on the line of contact, 27 of them in the area of responsibility of the Dnepr Group of Forces. In total, 630 airplanes and 278 helicopters, 28,464 unmanned aerial vehicles, 556 air defence missile systems, 16,684 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,390 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 12,416 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 24,086 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. Tags: WtR Vice Presidential nominee JD Vance spoke at a campaign rally in Reno Tuesday afternoon. Watch the full video of the rally below: He appeared at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center with remarks starting speakers first taking the stage ahead of Vance at around 4 p.m. Vance also held rallies in Henderson and in Glendale, Arizona. 2 News Nevada anchor/reporter Josh Meny got to interview JD Vance. Watch the interview below: The Harris campaign released a statement in response to Republican Vice Presidential nominee JD Vance's visit. JD Vance is nothing more than a rubber stamp for Donald Trumps extreme Project 2025 agenda an agenda that will kill Nevada jobs, raise costs on our workers, and attack our unions. "The Trump-Vance agenda would destroy this states economy and target our fundamental freedoms by banning abortion nationwide and overriding the protections weve fought for here. "The stakes are high for Nevada families, and we must come together to defeat the extremism Trump and Vance are trying to bring here by sending Kamala Harris to the White House. Long before he was a U.S. senator from Ohio, Vance rose to prominence on the wings of Hillbilly Elegy, a bestselling memoir that many thought captured the essence of Donald Trump's political resonance in a rural white America ravaged by joblessness, opioid addiction and poverty. Vance was raised by his grandparents in Middletown, in southwestern Ohio, while his mother, whom he introduced during his speech Wednesday, battled an addiction he said she put behind her 10 years ago. He spent a significant amount of time traveling to Kentucky with his grandparents to visit family and said he hoped to be buried in a small mountain cemetery there. (The Associated Press contributed to this report.) An American finds second home in China's millennia-old city Xinhua) 09:06, July 29, 2024 Daniel Welker and his family pose for a photo at the Luoyi ancient city in Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, Jan. 11, 2024. (Xinhua) ZHENGZHOU, July 28 (Xinhua) -- When Daniel Welker delved into Asian studies as an undergraduate back in the United States, he had no idea that the seemingly casual interest would later bring him across the Pacific to start a life in China. Welker hails from the U.S. state of Kentucky and has lived in China for 12 years. He has found his second home in Luoyang, one of the cradles of Chinese civilization and the capital of 13 dynasties. Over time, Welker has immersed himself in the local culture, enjoying specialties like spicy soup, wearing traditional Chinese clothing to feasts and even picking up some local dialects. In recognition of his contributions and love for the city, Welker was officially appointed as a "city ambassador" by Luoyang. "I'm grateful for the opportunities China has allowed me to have," he said, reflecting on his experiences and the bonds he has formed with a country over 10,000 km from his hometown. Welker majored in anthropology and minored in Spanish and Asian studies in the United States. "East Asia has some differences that I wanted to understand better, so I added Asian studies. At first, it was seemingly a casual interest, but then it grew stronger," he said. In 2011, he embarked on his first trip to China and came to Henan the following year to pursue a Chinese certification program in the province. Initially planning to stay for just one year, Welker found himself learning so much that he extended his stay for another year and eventually met his future Chinese wife. After finishing his studies in 2014, he moved to Luoyang to work as a foreign language teacher at Luoyang Normal University and Luoyang No. 2 Foreign Language School. What was originally intended to be a one-year stint turned into two years, then three and ultimately 12 years now. As a teacher, Welker is well-liked by his students, though he occasionally needs to be strict. He carefully observes their performance and grades them based on their English fluency and effort. Each school year, Welker prepares gifts for the top three students, including books that he greatly enjoyed during his middle school years. Speaking of his Chinese students, Welker said most of them have clear goals for the future and are actively pursuing them. He was deeply impressed by the English proficiency of some students. "These kids are really driven, and they crave knowledge. They want to affect the world in a positive way, being a good representative of their own country," Welker said. He added that he was also captivated by Henan's profound historical and cultural heritage. "If you want to see the beginnings of China, you should go to Henan." Luoyang's rich history and cultural depth, from landmarks like the White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China, to its distinctive local customs, are incredibly impressive, Welker noted. He believes this is a land where tradition and modernity converge, with fresh air prevailing most of the time and infrastructure, such as subways, continuously being developed. When discussing cultural exchanges between China and the United States, Welker sees great potential. In his spare time, Welker enjoys creating videos of his city tours in China and sharing them online to promote Chinese culture. "Luoyang is getting more cosmopolitan than it has been in centuries since its heyday in the Sui and Tang Dynasties (581-907). It's getting more international ties. I hope the world sees more of Henan," he said. Speaking about the relations between China and the United States, Welker said the two countries have had their commonalities and differences. "If we can focus more on the commonalities and keep improving our relationship, I think that we can do some really great things." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) An 11-year-old "juvenile terrorist" is facing more than two dozen of felony charges for allegedly calling in bomb and shooting threats to several Florida schools, officials said. The Flagler county Sheriff's Office last week announced the boy's arrest in Henrico County, Va., where he is from, and where he was awaiting extradition to Florida. The arrest follows a 10-week investigation into more than 20 threats called in against five Flagler County schools between May 14 and May 22: Buddy Taylor Middle School, First Baptist Christian Academy, Flagler Palm Coast High School, Old Kings Elementary School, and Suncoast Community School. Although the calls were placed to the FCSO Communications Center, the Volusia Sheriff's Office Communications Center, and the Lincoln Emergency Communications Center in Nebraska, detectives traced the calls to the boy's home in Virginia. In coordination with the Henrico County Police Division, a search warrant was executed at the boy's residence. Electronic devices were seized, but detectives discovered that the boy had removed the hard drive from his laptop in an alleged effort to destroy evidence. Nevertheless, through his electronics and interviews with his family, detectives learned the boy had been completely absorbed by the internet since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and developed an interest in violent content, including videos of animal and human cruelty and "snuff" videos. "What we learned was frankly shocking and alarming," Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said during a press conference. ""This kid needs to be held accountable and get some serious help." Authorities say the boy said he created a script and acted alone, using skills he learned on the internet to try to avoid detection. In addition to making threats against Florida schools, the boy also allegedly made similar calls to several other states and even the Maryland State House. "With school coming up in less than a month, I know that the status of this investigation was on the forefront of our community's mind, which is why our detectives never stopped working to find the person responsible for terrorizing our students, parents, teachers, and our community," Staly said in a statement. "This kid's behavior was escalating and becoming more dangerous. I'm glad we got him before he escalated out of control and hurt someone," Staly said. "I commend Detective O'Barr and our Criminal Intelligence Unit, our Real Time Crime Center team, dispatchers, and our patrol team, along with our federal and state partners for their incredible effort to solve this case." The boy's calls allegedly inspired a copycat threat made by a 13-year-old in Flagler County, authorities said. The boy is charged with 14 felony counts of false report concerning the planting of a bomb, 14 felony counts of unlawful use of a two-way communication device, one felony count of tampering with physical Evidence, and 14 misdemeanor counts of disrupting a school function. --with reporting by TMX Once again breaking records for the hottest summer on record, if youre anywhere other than under Karls protection in San Francisco this season, youre probably dying for a beach vacation right about now. But you dont have to fly to Hawaii or Mexico for a taste of seaside luxury. Over the last year, Monterey Bay has welcomed a whopping five new or totally revamped properties that are perfect for a quick coastal escape. From last months debut of The Sanctuary Beach Resort to the stylish new Stilwell Hotel in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, these stays on Monterey Bay are your Rx for summer fun. The Sanctuary Beach Resort (The Sanctuary Beach Resort) This summer, one of the only beachfront properties on Monterey Bay unveiled a brand new chapter. The Pacific is literally right outside your doorclose enough to hear the waves crashing at night, close enough to bury your toes in the sandat The Sanctuary Beach Resort, a collection of 60 cottages, suites, and rooms on 19 acres of shoreline next door to the Marina Dunes Preserve. New Orleans design firm Farouki Farouki cultivated a vibe of seaside sophistication in their redesign of the propertys interiors, with calming ocean tones and laidback new-bohemian accents. Each room has a fireplace and private patio or terrace that opens onto the beach where a bonfire lights up every night at sunset. At the onsite spa and fitness studio (and on the beach, too) Monterey Bay Moves delivers a range of yoga, meditation, and sound baths, while daily guided nature walks give guests a deeper appreciation for The Sanctuarys unique coastal ecosystem. The aroma of wood fire saturates the Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette, the hotels fantastic Central Coastinspired seafood restaurant helmed by up-and-coming star, executive chef Nestor Marin. In a modern dining room combining aesthetics both beach-chic and industrial, at the nautical-inspired bar and lounge and on the outdoor patio, locally sourced ingredients are crafted into seafood-forward dishes like rich curried mussels, tangy cioppino, and addictive seaweed-infused sourdough. Salt Wood also takes care of breakfast, which you select the night before from a menu of classics, and is delivered to your door by picnic basket in the morning. // Rates start around $439/night; 3295 Dunes Dr. (Marina), // Rates start around $439/night; 3295 Dunes Dr. (Marina), thesanctuarybeachresort.com Stilwell Hotel (Courtesy of @stilwellhotel ) This spring, storybook village Carmel-by-the-Sea welcomed a charming new downtown stay. Stilwell Hotel channels the regions coastal climes with a soothing seaside palette inspired by sand and surf in each of its 42 rooms. In the courtyard, plush loungers are warmed by multiple firepits and restaurant Foraya space adorned in reclaimed Monterey Cypress, local abalone shells, and gyotaku prints of local ingredientsis renowned for its sustainably minded Central Coast fare. // Rates start around $525/night; San Carlos St. at 5th Ave. (Carmel-by-the-Sea), larkhotels.com La Playa Hotel (Courtesy of @laplayaca ) A $20 million renovation recently restored Carmels grand dame, La Playa Hotel, to the beauty of her youth. They spared no expense to honor the 120-year-old heritage of the one-time salon and artist retreat, drawing out the propertys warmth and bohemian eccentricity with new custom furnishings, lighting, and flooring, adding spa-inspired baths, enhanced guest programming like Champagne breakfasts, and even carving out three new one-bedroom suites along the way. Buds, La Playas historic dark woodpaneled tavern, got a touch-up, toojust enough to return the intimate, moody space to its original glory. // Starting around $589/night; Camino Real at 8th Ave. (Carmel-by-the-Sea), laplayahotel.com Carmel Beach Hotel (Rick Pharoah) Sister to lAuberge Carmel, Carmel Beach Hotel has all the luxury of its sibling in a boutique package. Sweet Carmel-by-the-Seas closest thing to a beachfront property (its just a block from the shore), the hotels 26 rooms and suites span seven historic bungalows and are decked out with soaking tubs and sweeping views. Only overnight guests have the privilege of indulging in Michelin-starred chef Justin Cogleys artistry at the all-day restaurant Secoya or packed into a picnic basket for proper beach-going, and there are an array of restorative treatments at the intimate on-site spa. // Rates start around $481/night; San Antonio Ave. at 13th St. (Carmel-by-the-Sea), carmelbeachhotel.com Le Petit Pali (Courtesy of @palisociety ) Celebrating their first birthday this summer, the Palisocietys twin Carmel outposts drip with bespoke design details and vintage-inspired style. At its locations on Ocean Avenue and on Eighth Avenue, Le Petit Pali evokes the charm of the old-school inn, with complimentary Champagne breakfasts, bath amenities from Diptyque, nightly hot water bottle service, and bicycles for tooling around town. A rotating menu of small bites and drinks hail from village favorites like Stationaery, Chez Noir, and Folktale Winery. // Rates start around $323/night; Junipero St. at Ocean Ave. and Junipero Street at Eighth Ave. (Carmel-by-the-Sea), lepetitpali.com Leaving AARP.org Website You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply. In the coming months, millions of dollars in federal funding will be flowing to states to help them improve internet access in underserved areas and increase digital literacy skills to close the digital divide. AARP state offices around the country are playing a crucial role in ensuring much of that funding goes to programs that help older adults take advantage of todays technology. Members only Nevada last month became the first state to receive federal funding through the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which is awarding more than $800 million this year to help states and territories identify and address gaps in internet access and overcome barriers to reliable and affordable connectivity. Funding is expected to be awarded to additional states and territories by the end of this year. The grants, which were championed by AARP, were included as part of the federal bipartisan infrastructure law passed in 2021. They come as states and territories are getting a combined $42.5 billion from the federal government to build out and upgrade infrastructure for high-speed internet in underserved areas. Learn How AARP is Fighting for You AARP is your fierce defender on the issues that matter to people 50-plus. Read more about how were fighting for you every day in Congress and across the country. States are also applying for a share of an additional $1.25 billion in competitive grants from the federal government to continue implementing digital equity initiatives. The grants aim to ensure that older adults and others have the digital skills and the devices that they need to put the internet to work for them, once broadband infrastructure is in place, said Tim Morstad, an AARP government affairs director. A mass stabbing at a children's dance workshop in the United Kingdom has injured eight people, including several children, in what's being described as a horrendous attack. Merseyside Police said officers were called to a property on Hart Street in Southport at approximately 11:50 BST on Monday. North West Ambulance Service reportedly treated eight patients with stab injuries while several others were taken to Alder Hey Children's Hospital. Journalist Tim Johnson, from Eye on Southport, disclosed the incident occurred at the Hope of Hart children's club, which is housed in a former warehouse building on a back street, according to the BBC. Johnson explained that a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance workshop for primary school children aged six to 10 had been taking place at the time of the attack. "It was horrendous. I've never seen anything like it," he said. "There were so many police cars; it was a mass of blue lights. I saw ambulance men and women in tears. People were in tears in the streets." A business owner who called the police said the attack was like a "scene in a horror movie." Colin Parry, owner of Masters Vehicle Body Repairs on Hart Street, said he believed six or seven "young girls" had been stabbed. "It's like something from America, not like sunny Southport," he told the news outlet. Mercyside Police announced that a 17-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the stabbings. He remains in police custody amid an investigation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the multiple stabbings were "horrendous and deeply shocking" as he thanked emergency services for their response. The San Angelo Police Department in Texas has arrested two Walmart employees involved in a large-scale $1 million theft operation. Carmelo D. Amigleo, 18 years old, and Ryan Munoz, 18 years old, were taken into custody on July 29 following a week-long investigation. Authorities were notified on July 23 of an alleged large-scale and ongoing theft at 1852 Sherwood Way, San Angelo. On Sunday, July 28, 2024, detectives executed two search warrants at local residences, resulting in the discovery of several pieces of evidence and proceeds related to the crime. Primary findings indicate that approximately one million dollars have been stolen from the Walmart on Sherwood Way over the course of the past year. The SAPD announced the arrest of the two suspects in a press conference on Monday. Telecommunications and technology company based in Mississippi, C Spire, announced on X that it had withdrawn all its advertising from the Olympics due to the ceremonys mockery of a painting depicting a significant biblical moment for Christians. The 2024 Olympic Games began on July 26 in Paris, France, featuring French culture and controversial art that led to global Christian dismay and prompted a sponsor to pull out. "We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the Paris Olympics opening ceremonies," the company stated. "C Spire will be removing our advertisements from the Olympics." The four-hour event along the Seine River included performances by international stars like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga, both celebrated icons in the queer community. Drag Queen Nicky Doll, a contestant from the 12th season of "RuPauls Drag Race" and host of "Drag Race France," participated in the fashion runway segment alongside "Drag Race France" Season 1 winner Paloma, Season 3s Piche, and Giselle Palmer. Telecommunications and technology company based in Mississippi, C Spire, announced on X that it had withdrawn all its advertising from the Olympics due to the ceremonys mockery of a painting depicting a significant biblical moment for Christians. The 2024 Olympic Games began on July 26 in Paris, France, featuring French culture and controversial art that led to global Christian dismay and prompted a sponsor to pull out. "We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the Paris Olympics opening ceremonies," the company stated. "C Spire will be removing our advertisements from the Olympics." The four-hour event along the Seine River included performances by international stars like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga, both celebrated icons in the queer community. Drag Queen Nicky Doll, a contestant from the 12th season of "RuPauls Drag Race" and host of "Drag Race France," participated in the fashion runway segment alongside "Drag Race France" Season 1 winner Paloma, Season 3s Piche, and Giselle Palmer. Initially, the queens watched the models from the runway sidelines before joining to showcase their styles. One of their performances included a scene reminiscent of Leonardo da Vincis "The Last Supper," with drag queens and other performers arranged similarly to Jesus Christ and his apostles. This drew significant attention and sparked mixed reactions globally. Da Vinci's famous masterpiece is located in Milan, Italy. Later, Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, addressed the controversy in a media briefing. He clarified that the act was meant to promote inclusion, not mockery. "When we aim to include everyone and exclude no one, questions can arise," Jolly explained, according to FOX News. Initially, the queens watched the models from the runway sidelines before joining to showcase their styles. One of their performances included a scene reminiscent of Leonardo da Vincis "The Last Supper," with drag queens and other performers arranged similarly to Jesus Christ and his apostles. This drew significant attention and sparked mixed reactions globally. Da Vinci's famous masterpiece is located in Milan, Italy. Later, Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, addressed the controversy in a media briefing. He clarified that the act was meant to promote inclusion, not mockery. "When we aim to include everyone and exclude no one, questions can arise," Jolly explained, according to FOX News. A Maine man has pleaded guilty to bank robbery after using a bank's pneumatic tube to issue a bomb threat, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Maine said Monday. According to court records, 41-year-old Jason Arsenault pulled up to the drive-through of the Key Bank on Gorham Road in South Portland on January 26 while wearing a black winter hat, sunglasses and a black mask covering his face. Arsenault used the bank's pneumatic tube to send a note to the teller that read: "CAR BOMB No Cops Alarms or WE ALL DIE $50,000 in 20's." The teller complied, sending money through the pneumatic tube, which Arsenault took before driving away. The South Portland and Portland police departments assisted the FBI in their investigation. Detectives used surveillance cameras to track the vehicle's movements until they were able to capture a surveillance image of Arsenault without his mask on. Six days after the robbery, Arsenault was arrested in Portland. He confessed to the crime and directed law enforcement to the stolen cash, which was hidden in a backpack in Portland's Baxter Woods. Arsenault faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. --with reporting from TMX Divine Solitaires, a premier diamond solitaire jewellery brand, is set to shine this August with the return of The Solitaire Festival of India (TSFI), now in its third edition. This year, the festival features Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor as the brand ambassador, adding a touch of glamour and star appeal to the event. Known for her roles in popular films like War, Shuddh Desi Romance, and Befikre, Vaani Kapoor brings her star power and impressive Instagram following of 8 million to the campaign, promising to make this year's festival a standout event. Running from August 1-31, the festival will take place at over 200 partner jeweller stores across India and online at https://shop.divinesolitaires.com. It offers customers the chance to explore and indulge in exquisite diamond solitaire jewellery collections, perfect for the upcoming festive and wedding season. To entice customers, TSFI will offer assured gifts with every diamond solitaire jewellery purchase, along with coupons for weekly lucky draws scheduled for August 11, 17, and 24. Prizes include iPhones, Alto cars, and a grand bumper draw on September 4, where one lucky winner will drive away in a luxurious XUV 700, with additional prizes for other participants. "The festive and wedding season is just around the corner, and there is no better time than August and no better opportunity than TSFI to invest in diamond solitaire jewellery," said Jignesh Mehta, Founder of Divine Solitaires. "Our customers will not only have the chance to purchase the best quality diamond solitaires but also the opportunity to win fantastic prizes." The previous edition of TSFI in 2023 saw a 600% increase in footfall, and this year, partner jewellers like Senco Gold, Ranka Jewellers, and Reliance Retail are set to break that record, attracting customers from across the country. To promote the TSFI 2024 campaign, Divine Solitaires will launch a nationwide marketing initiative in over 100 cities, including regional newspaper advertisements, radio campaigns, and cinema ads running nationwide for seven days. The festival will also feature a Facebook and Instagram live draw event on August 11, engaging audiences and bringing the excitement of the draw directly to their screens. Also read: Our growth culture prioritizes catering to specific needs of smaller town: Pooja Baid For the past three years, Dove has been at the forefront of a transformative movement in India with its Test campaign. The multi-year initiatives have been dedicated to challenge beauty biases faced by women, particularly within the context of arranged marriages. In the third edition of the series, Dove unveils the experiences of four mothers who inspire change by rewriting their daughters matrimonials to be free of beauty biases and introduces mothermonials. The campaign builds on a poignant yet sharp insight that in the biodatas are circulated within family groups, daughters are solely described basis their height, weight and colour. With #TheBeautyTestStopsWithMe, Dove aims to redefine matrimonials, converting them to mothermonials this year. These mothermonials aim to be holistic narrations of their daughters personality, preferences, achievements and ambitions - challenging the excessive emphasis on external appearances. In doing so, mothers of prospective brides change the narrative for their daughters so they can have a more positive experience in finding life partners, unlike the experiences theyve had. #StopTheBeauty DOVES JOURNEY TO #THEBEAUTYTESTSTOPSWITHME Dove sparked the conversation first in 2021 by highlighting the beauty tests women face through the real-life stories of four young women while finding a partner in marriage. The second edition (2022) of the campaign delved into the beauty report cards for marriage that adolescent girls receive early on, which perpetuate appearance-based anxieties throughout their lives and impacts their self-esteem. This year, with #TheBeautyTestStopsWithMe, Dove takes one step forward and calls on mothers and daughters to lead by example, inviting them to join the movement and change the way matrimonials are written. IMPACT THROUGH FILMS AND AI As part of the initiative, Dove has released four films, born from heartfelt conversations with Ms. Subhashini, Ms. Sudarshana, Ms. Ritu and Ms. Monica - four mothers from across the nation - that highlight the pervasive nature of beauty biases in arranged marriages. Dove has partnered with a leading media house and Mindshare to enable moms and daughters write customized mothermonials by harnessing artificial intelligence. The platform enables grooms to connect with brides based on education, hobbies and quirks, rather than height, weight colour. In addition to this the Dove Self-Esteem Project (DSEP) in a partnership with UNICEF, aims to reach over 23 million girls and boys in schools in India by 2026. Through the educational material designed for this program, Dove aims to improve students knowledge and skills that help them enhance body confidence and self-esteem. Sharing more insight, Harman Dhillon, Executive Director, Hindustan Unilever, and Beauty and WellBeing General Manager, Unilever South Asia, said, Dove is on a mission to ensure the next generation grows up with body confidence, self-esteem, and a positive relationship with the way they look. Through these campaigns Dove has urged and provoked the country to stop the beauty test for two years now. In 2024, we continue to build on our efforts by encouraging mothers to lead the change and for daughters to challenge the very format of a biodata that is the perpetrator of beauty-based biases. We aim to revolutionize traditional matrimonials into empowering mothermonials that inspire society to see daughters beyond stereotypes. Through this campaign and the Dove Self Esteem Project, Dove is committed to taking tangible actions that help address biases and inspire body confidence amongst young girls and women. Zenobia Pithawalla - Senior Executive Creative Director & Mihir Chanchani - Executive Creative Director, Ogilvy added In our country even today parents put out matrimonial ads or biodatas for their eligible daughters. Tall, slim and fair rear their ugly heads in the first two lines. At Dove, we approached mothers who wanted her daughters matrimonial ad to be different from hers. These mothers of India joined hands with us to write matrimonial ads without beauty biases. We brought mothers on the frontline, to protect every daughter of India from the ugly Beauty Test. With this began the change from Matrimonials to Mothermonials. Authored by : Anurag Das, Marketing Head of Kaapi Machines In an era characterized by an abundance of information and heightened consumer awareness, the landscape of advertising has undergone a significant transformation. As a seasoned professional in India's dynamic marketplace, I have observed firsthand the impact of digital commerce and social media on advertising practices. Ethical advertising has emerged not just as a practice but as a cornerstone of sustainable business, demanding a deep commitment to transparency and integrity in communications with consumers. Significance of Ethical Advertising Ethical advertising transcends legal compliance; it is fundamentally about nurturing trust and building long-term relationships with consumers. In the diverse and well-informed Indian marketand indeed, globallya brands reputation significantly depends on its ethical stance. Honest and transparent advertisements not only comply with local guidelines, such as those of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), but also align with global consumer expectations. From my observations, ethical advertising is a strategic asset that enhances brand loyalty, protects public image, and reduces the risks associated with misleading claims. This is especially true in markets like India, where community endorsements and word-of-mouth have substantial influence. Challenges Involved in Ethical Advertising Achieving ethical advertising, despite its clear importance, is a challenging process. Advertisers face several key hurdles: Balancing Creativity And Honesty: Advertisers are inherently creative, striving to produce captivating stories that resonate with their audience. However, there is a fine line between creative expression and hype, making it complex to maintain interest and truthfulness in ads. For instance, Doves Real Beauty campaign celebrated diverse beauty by featuring women of various sizes and shapes, earning acclaim for its honesty. Yet, it faced criticism when some images were found to be digitally altered, raising questions about the authenticity of its message. Cultural Sensitivity: The diversity of global markets means an advertisement acceptable in one region may be inappropriate in another, requiring a nuanced understanding of cultural differences to avoid backlash. Misleading Claims: The pressure to stand out in a competitive market can tempt businesses to exaggerate claims. The Maggi noodles incident in India and the Volkswagen emissions scandal in Europe underscore the potential repercussions of unethical advertising. Digital Advertising Dilemmas: Issues like ad fraud and data privacy concerns are global challenges. The controversy over Facebook's data practices highlighted the need for transparency in digital advertising. Regulatory Compliance: Adapting to new advertising technologies and methods is difficult as regulatory frameworks often lag behind industry innovations. Strategies for Ethical Advertising To navigate the moral complexities of advertising, brands can adopt various effective strategies: Adhere to Global Standards: By aligning advertising campaigns with guidelines from bodies like ASCI and the International Chamber of Commerce, brands ensure their ads are truthful and culturally sensitive. Enhance Transparency: Transparency, particularly in digital spaces, involves clear disclosures of sponsorships and data usage policies. Companies like Patagonia, which openly share their supply chain challenges, set a good precedent for honesty. Invest in Consumer Education: Educating consumers about products and services is essential. The shift towards ingredient transparency in the food and cosmetics industries shows how informed consumers tend to trust brands more. Consumer Feedback and Engagement: Actively seeking and valuing consumer feedback through social media, customer surveys, and interactive platforms allows brands to gather valuable insights, address concerns, and adapt their strategies. This open dialogue fosters deeper trust and loyalty. Monitor and Audit Advertisements Regularly: Regular audits ensure that advertising practices meet ethical standards and comply with regulatory requirements. Cultivate a Culture of Ethics: Encouraging a corporate culture that prioritizes ethical behavior leads to more sustainable operations. Companies like Unilever have integrated corporate social responsibility into their strategies, promoting an ethical ethos. Leverage Technology for Better Compliance: Advanced analytics and AI can help monitor ad placements and manage consumer data responsibly. GDPR compliance in the EU is a prime example of how technology aids in ensuring transparency. A recent example in digital advertising comes from Zomato, a leading player in Indias food delivery industry, exemplifies proactive communication. Following a campaign that confused customers about delivery times, Zomato quickly clarified these misconceptions, preventing potential consumer distrust and emphasizing their commitment to transparency. In summary, while ethical advertising in India is fraught with challenges from intense market competition and digital complexities to cultural diversities, there are robust strategies that brands can employ to maintain integrity. Companies that commit to ethical practices not only foster consumer trust but also build a sustainable business model that can thrive in Indias dynamic market environment. Premiumisation, hyperpersonalisation, belongingness, need for sustainability the automotive industry in India is evolving at a fast pace, as for consumers it is no longer just about buying an affordable car. There are several factors driving demand as consumer behaviour is changing. Delivering his keynote address at the Auto Konnect Redefining Automotive Advertising event, 2024, presented by Hybrid in partnership with Adgully, Shashank Shrivastava, Executive Director, Maruti Suzuki India, deciphered the Evolving Indian car consumers and the future of automotive advertising. Speaking about his vast experience in the automobile industry, which spans over 35 years, wherein he saw the industry from a very nascent stage to what it is today, Shrivastava noted that India today is the third largest in the world as far as the passenger vehicle industry is concerned, after China and the US. Many of the changes that we have seen in the passenger vehicle industry also applies to the automotive industry and also while this is about digital and programmatic, but I will be talking about the entire ecosystem which means the consumer in India and how they have changed, where does the marketing fit in, and within marketing where is advertising placed, and within advertising, the digital part of it, Shrivastava said at the outset. He started off by speaking about the changing dynamics in the Indian auto industry, specifically the Indian automobile customer, which he believed, is the most exciting and insightful subjects to analyse when it comes to advertising strategies. Firstly I would like to talk about the Indian car consumer, because ultimately whatever you do advertising or marketing, contextual targeting, personalised banners and so on and so forth it has to do with the consumers. And in India, one of the biggest shifts that we have to look at is the demographic shift that we have seen. In the Indian demographic landscape, there has been a significant transformation, quite unique to anything else that we have seen so far. Over 65% of the population is under the age of 35 years, and the market now is dominated by younger, more dynamic and tech savvy consumers. This new generation values technology, connectivity, experiences over the traditional form of car ownership. They are looking for vehicles that integrate seamlessly with their digital lifestyles. Moving hand-in-hand with these younger consumer demographics is Indias growing middle class, which is the major driving force in the automotive market. As disposable incomes rise, there is a growing appetite for premium cars. This shift is accompanied by demand for advanced features, superior performance and more safety. Delving further on the middle class, Shrivastava noted, The middle class is not only expanding, but also becoming more aspirational, seeking vehicles that reflect their improved socio economic status. The lesson here is since the market has become larger, consumers can be bucketed differently. There is increased need for requirements of the consumers to be addressed, and consumers have different requirements, thats why personalisation is so important. This premiumisation is what we call in the market, people have more financing options, they are going for SUVs, and this, I believe, is going to continue in the near future. The third thing which is specific about Indian consumers is that there is a lot of digital influence now, whether its the tech savvy features in the car, they are part of the current digital revolution, which has fundamentally transformed the car buying process. In car buying there are 26 touch points, starting from the time you think of buying a car to the actual delivery of the car, he said, adding, We at Maruti Suzuki have digitised 24 of them, the two points which have not been digitised are the test drive and the actual delivery which is difficult to digitise. However with the emerging technologies that we have, we can have virtual test drives as well, and that is one of the options that we have for the consumers as well. Todays consumers are well informed and conduct extensive online research. In India, 95% of the consumers conduct online research even before reaching the showrooms for a purchase. Social media research, review sites, automotive blogs are playing an increasingly important role, so digital is very important. The fourth thing is the need for sustainability, it is the other driving force in Indias automotive industry today, consumers are increasingly aware of environmental issues, this consciousness is reflected in their car buying choices as well, the demand for eco-friendly vehicles is on the rise and they are driven by reduction in carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. And government is also incentivising green vehicles, and this is further reinforcing this trend, Shrivastava noted. Finally, people are preferring experience over ownership, and this is partly because of the digital revolution. He added, We now have flexible, cost effective alternatives to traditional car ownership, there is no long term commitment for buying a car. Normally people used to buy a car and keep it for five-six years, now there is a shift towards value and experiences over ownership and, therefore, the concept of shared mobility of subscription buying, car rentals and so on. These are the five major points which I believe defines the automotive consumer in India. Increasingly driven by a digital first approach, automotive brands are embracing the digital era with enthusiasm, but recognising the immense potential that it holds. We are not talking about websites or apps, but crafting user-friendly interactive platforms that serve as virtual showrooms. In fact, Maruti Suzuki has launched the Arena Verse in the Nexaverse, virtual showrooms that allow users to indulge in immersive experiences, he added. Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports Bern, 29.07.2024 - President Viola Amherd will travel to Mongolia and Japan in early August with the aim of further strengthening Switzerlands relations with these democratic East Asian nations. The two visits will provide an opportunity to celebrate long-standing relations: Switzerland has maintained bilateral relations with Mongolia for 60 years and with Japan for 160 years. President Amherd will meet President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar on Friday, 2 August. This will be the first visit to Mongolia by a Swiss president. In view of 20 years of successful engagement in the country by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the closure of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Ulaanbaatar, the visit will focus in particular on the future shape of bilateral relations. International topics will include security issues and commitment to the multilateral order. The programme in Mongolia until Sunday includes a visit to a photo exhibition celebrating bilateral relations and to an SDC project dedicated to the responsible production of cashmere and yak wool. In Japan, Ms Amherd will meet with regional officials on Monday in Shinagawa, one of Tokyos city wards, which is twinned with Geneva. Talks with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Defence Minister Minoru Kihara are scheduled for Wednesday, 7 August. The discussions will start with an appreciation of the long-standing relations between Switzerland and Japan and their further development. Other items on the agenda include prospects in East Asia and the security situation in Europe. Ms Amherd is expected to meet Emperor Naruhito on Thursday. Switzerland and Japan enjoy excellent relations based on shared values, the promotion of innovative and competitive framework conditions and a commitment to multilateralism and a rules-based world order. Japan is Switzerland's third most important trading partner in Asia after China and India, with an annual trade volume of around CHF 14 billion. Japan is also an important country for Switzerlands bilateral research cooperation. Address for enquiries DDPS Communications kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch +41 58 464 50 58 Publisher Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports http://www.vbs.admin.ch Foundation Stone Laid for Surjagad Ispat Pvt Ltd Steel Project in Gadchiroli 2 In a landmark event, Maharashtras Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Dada Pawar laid the foundation stone for the Surjagad Ispat Pvt Ltd steel project in Gadchiroli. This ambitious project, with an investment of Rs. 10,000 crore, is expected to generate employment for over 7,000 individuals, both directly and indirectly. During the ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed confidence that Gadchiroli district will become the most progressive district in the state in the near future. He highlighted that in the future, Gadchiroli alone will account for thirty percent of the states steel production. Fadnavis also emphasized that Gadchiroli will become Maharashtras leading district and the largest steel hub in the country. He spoke about the positive impact of industry on the tribal community, mentioning the establishment of a medical college and the planned construction of an airport in the area. Fadnavis announced efforts to transform Gadchiroli into an education hub and initiate water transportation from Chamorshi to Kakinada port. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Dada Pawar remarked on the significance of inaugurating a major company with an investment of Rs. 10,000 crore in Gadchiroli. He stressed that this project will provide significant employment opportunities for local residents and meet the countrys steel requirements. Vedansh Joshi, MD of Surjagad Ispat Pvt Ltd, stated, We are contributing to our Prime Minister Narendra Modi jis vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by making significant investments and promoting industrial development in Maharashtra. We are establishing an integrated steel plant in the Naxal-affected region of Wadlapeth village, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, covering an area of 340 acres. Our project includes a 1.6 MTPA Beneficiation Plant, a 1.2 MTPA Pellet Plant, a Sponge Iron Plant of 4 x 650 TPD, an Induction Furnace of 0.75 MTPA, a Rolling Mill of 0.75 MTPA, a Captive Power Plant with a capacity of 120 MW, and a Pellet Plant of 1.2 MTPA and we plan to extend up to 2 million tons integrated steel plant in phase 2. Upon completion, we plan to achieve 8 million tons of integrated steel production. The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Cabinet Ministers Uday Samant, and Dr. Dharmaraobaba Atram. Several government officials were also present. The first phase of the project is slated to commence in 2026, with the entire project expected to be completed by 2030. In conclusion, the Surjagad Ispat Pvt Ltd project stands as a testament to Maharashtras commitment to industrial growth and regional development. The initiative promises not only economic benefits but also aims to uplift local communities by providing essential services and employment, marking a new chapter in Gadchirolis development. There Must Be Immediate Steps Towards Ceasefire in Gaza: UK PM to Israeli Prez 2 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has met Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Paris and told him that there must be immediate steps towards a ceasefire in Gaza. The two leaders met on Sunday and reiterated their commitment to maintaining the historic friendship between Israel and the UK. Starmer expressed his condolences for the deaths of the five hostages kidnapped on October 7, 2023, whose bodies have recently been recovered from Gaza. Starmers office in a statement said that the Prime Minister reiterated his ongoing support for Israels right to self-defence in accordance with international law. The Prime Minister was clear that there is no moral equivalence between Israel, a democratic state actions and Hamas, a terrorist organisation, it added. According to the statement, Starmer said there must be immediate steps towards a ceasefire, so that hostages can be released and more humanitarian aid can get in for those in desperate need. The two leaders committed to continuing their close partnership in key areas of collaboration such as trade and investment. WWE Hall of Famer Abdullah the Butcher, whose real name is Larry Shreve, has been in a Georgia hospital for almost a week, according to PWInsider.com. According to the report, the 83-year-old former wrestler has been dealing with an intestinal issue. Wrestling Inc. reports the legend was slated to appear at an upcoming North Carolina event, but his appearance is now in question. Per the report, Abdullah stated in 2023 that he felt like he was in great shape for his age, despite hip replacement. His goal was to get back in the ring to have a retirement match. Shreve told Click on Detroit last year that he is broke. He said the reason was a $2.3 million lawsuit. Shreve blamed his inability to read or write for the loss, saying that he didnt know he was being summoned to court. The lawsuit, which was filed by Devin Nicholson, claimed that Shreve gave Nicholson Hepatitis C during a match and cost him a contract with the WWE. Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily. Lawyers for six Alabama inmates argued during a Monday hearing that the prison systems punishment of inmates for failing to go to work violates the newly updated state Constitution. The inmates filed the lawsuit in May, arguing they want to work for an employer outside the prison system, but they do not want to be punished by the prison system for not working if (they) cannot work or decline to do so, including for reasons such as illness or unsafe working conditions. If prisoners miss or refuse work, according to the inmates lawyers, the Alabama Department of Corrections can take away phone privileges and commissary access, revoke good time, or order someone to solitary confinement. The department can also dole out additional work inside prison walls without pay. These prison punishments can also create a record of disciplinary infractions, making someone deemed safe enough for work release less likely to be paroled. The inmates, who werent present at Mondays hearing, are represented by lawyers from the Center for Constitutional Rights. There are five male inmates and one female inmate named in the lawsuit. All are Black. They want to work, said senior staff attorney Jessica Vosburgh. They just dont want to be subjected to punishments if they dont work. The lawsuit, filed in Montgomery County Circuit Court, is based on the change in the state Constitution, after voters in 2022 chose to update the document to remove racist language. The lawyers noted that Article 1, Section 32 of the new state Constitution now reads: That no form of slavery shall exist in this state; and there shall not be any involuntary servitude. The suit challenges the states brazen failure to heed the will of the people of this state, who voted in 2022 to ratify a new state constitution that bans slavery and involuntary servitude in all its forms, with no exceptions. Mondays hearing was set to discuss the states motion to dismiss the case. The state case, filed in Montgomery County and handled by Circuit Judge James Anderson, is slightly different from a federal case, which includes similar allegations about the states work release program. In that case, filed in December, prisoners said theyve been denied parole and forced to work jobs at fast food restaurants as part of a labor-trafficking scheme that generates $450 million a year for the state. On Monday, lawyers cited some of the reasons inmates would refuse work in the lawsuit like health hazards, inadequate pay, or workplace harassment or abuse. The case is relatively simple compared to other issues plaguing the Alabama Department of Corrections, said Vosburgh. The inmates arent seeking monetary damages; just an order barring the department from punishing them for not working. Vosburgh said being fired from a job for not showing up is fair game and that the case is about additional punishments handed down from the Department of Corrections. An attorney for the state told the judge that the issue comes down to good time, which most of the six plaintiffs arent eligible for. He said the sanctions come from the privilege of work release, which inmates arent forced to do. Inmates sign up for work release, he said. Its just not believable that the people of Alabama intended to turn (the Alabama Department of Corrections) on its head, Assistant Solicitor General Soren Geiger said, referencing the 2022 vote to change the Constitution. He said the case is about getting all the benefits of work release or community-based programs without following the rules. The six inmates are trying to use this linguistic modernization (of the 2022 Constitution) to challenge the entire incentive structure of Alabamas prison system, the states motion to dismiss the case said. In other words, (the inmates) want a court order permitting them to abandon their posts on a day-by-day, or per-haps an hour-by-hour, basis no matter how legitimate the reason. The judge listened to about 20 minutes of arguments on the case before saying he wouldnt issue a ruling immediately. Im going to look at everything with fresh eyes now, Anderson said from the bench. Following the hearing, Vosburgh said she feels optimistic about the judges impending decision. I think hell rule in our favor. A Detroit mother who admitted to killing her blind 3-year-old son and hiding his body in her freezer was sentenced to up to 60 years in prison. As part of her plea agreement, Azuradee France, 33, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder earlier this month, for the March 2022 death of her son, Chayce Allen. France fatally kicked Chayce in the chest after she got upset that he wouldn't eat, police said, according to the Detroit Free-Press. When Chayce didn't wake up the next morning, the mom of six concealed his corpse in a bag and stuffed it in a freezer in her basement, where his body remained for three months, until officers responding to a welfare check at her home made the grim discovery. France was initially charged with first-degree child abuse, torture and concealing a death. "You were supposed to protect Chayce, instead you hurt him to the point where he can't come back," France's sister, Azuant Sauls, said while delivering a victim impact statement during the sentencing hearing Monday, according to the paper. "I pray that you find healing, that you actually one day repair what you did to your children, especially Chayce. Because he didn't deserve it," said Sauls. While the defense argued for a lighter sentence, citing France's own history of childhood abuse and lack of mental health care, prosecutors said that didn't excuse Chayce's death. "Chayce is going to be forever three because of Ms. France's actions," said Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor Erin Wilmoth. "Chayce was not a disposable child and deserved more." France will be eligible for parole after 35 years. Until then, Wayne County Circuit Judge Tracy Green hopes France will ruminate over the tragedy and pain she inflicted on the children she was supposed to protect. "I want you to put Chayce especially, and the rest of your children on your back and carry them through your sentence, so that the horrible events that have occurred will not be in vain," said Green. Alma Powell, wife of retired general and former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, has died at the age of 86. Her death was confirmed by a family spokesperson. (Powell) was the grounding force of our family, the couples three children, Michael, Linda and Annemarie, said in a statement provided to CNN. During childhoods marked by constant moving to new homes, we always felt secure, because home was wherever she stood. She was an exemplary role model for us and for the world. She served our country, alongside our father, with intelligence and grace. We will miss her terribly but take comfort in the fact that she had a life so well-lived and is reunited with our father. Alma Vivian Johnson Powell was born in Birmingham in 1937 and attended Parker High School and Fisk University in Nashville. The eldest of two daughters, her father, nicknamed Big Red, was a school principal while her mother ran a daycare, founded the first Girl Scout troop for black girls in Alabama, and was the first African American to be elected assistant moderator of the United Church of Christ, according to her obituary. After graduation from Fisk, she returned to Birmingham and hosted an afternoon radio show, Luncheon with Alma on station WJLD. She soon headed to Boston and studied speech pathology and audiology. She met Lt. Colin Powell on a blind date and married him eight months later. The couple spent their honeymoon at the historic A.G. Gaston Motel. She then came home again to Birmingham in 1963 while her husband was deployed for his first tour in Vietnam. The Powells raised three children at stops in Virginia, North Carolina, Kansas, Kentucky, Colorado, Georgia and Germany. She served an advisor to her husband while he served as National Security Advisor, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and eventually the U.S. Secretary of State under George W. Bush. She reportedly talked her husband out of running for president in 1996. The couple founded Americas Promise Alliance, a youth organization, and she wrote two childrens books in support of it. In what was believed to be Colin Powells final interview, he said in July 2021 that his wife was the greatest person hed ever known. She was always there for me, and shed tell me, Thats not a good idea. She was usually right, he said. Colin Powell died from complications with COVID-19 in 2021. A preliminary hearing date has been set for an Alabama man charged in the shooting deaths of his wife and four children including two of his own will remain held without bond at least until his next court. Brandon Allan Kendrick II, 32, is charged with five counts of capital murder. The charges are four counts of capital murder of a child under the age of 14, and one count of capital murder in the slayings of two or more people in one act. Killed were Brandon Kendricks wife of six years, 24-year-old Kelse Kendrick, and their two children Kaleb Kendrick, 6 and Kynli Kendrick, 2. The other victims were the couples niece and nephew, Haley Daniels, 6, and Colton Daniels, who was killed days just before his 9th birthday. Their funerals were held Friday. Kendrick, whose grandfather is the longtime pastor of Oasis of Praise church in McCalla, has pleaded not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect. Kendrick has been appointed three lawyers to represent him. They did not immediately respond to a request for comment. District Judge Marvin Woods ordered Kendrick to remain held without bond and set the next court date for Sept. 26, at which time Kendrick will hear the evidence against him, according to the judges order made public Monday. The shooting happened Thursday, July 18, at the home of Pastor Kendrick. His grandson and family lived in the garage apartment on the West Blocton property. The large, close-knit family earlier that day had gathered at the home of Bill Morrow, Kelse Kendricks grandfather, for a pool party to celebrate Colton. Kynli Kendrick, 2, (not pictured) Kaleb Kendrick, 6, Colton Daniels, 8, and Haley Daniels, 6, were shot to death Thursday, July 18, just hours after Colton's birthday pool party.GoFundMe Brandon Kendrick did not attend Coltons party. The plan, said cousin Shannon McCoy, was for Kelse Kendrick and all four children to spend the night at Morrows home after the party. Haley and Coltons mother, Jessica Morrow, had surgery planned for the following day and Kelse Kendrick was keeping the children since Jessica Morrow her aunt had to be at the hospital early Friday morning. Brandon Kendrick repeatedly called his wife, telling her to come home. Ultimately, McCoy said, Kelse Kendrick agreed to return home. Jessica Morrow took Kelse Kendrick and the four children back to the garage apartment. Pastor Kendrick told his congregation three days later what happened. Ten minutes before I heard a gunshot, my grandson was sitting in my bedroom with me and Gay, laughing, talking, talked about the first time we ever took him to a restaurant for his 13th birthday, Pastor Kendrick said. Hed never been in a restaurant. All hed ever known for 12 years was abuse - physical, sexual, mental, drug. When I got him at 12 years old, he weighed 58 pounds, Pastor Kendrick said. He was on nine different psychotic medicines. The pastor went on to say that the system failed his grandson. When Brandon Kendrick turned 18, Pastor Kendrick said, they took him off disability and took him off medication because the family couldnt afford to buy it since his Medicaid was canceled. Gay and I watched him all these years try so hard, the pastor said. We talked to every agency, we talked to everybody, we tried everything. We had him institutionalized in hospitals only to have him discharged with no medication, no follow, up no doctor. Pastor Kendrick said in the predawn hours of that Thursday, Brandon Kendrick had called 911 asking for help, only to be turned down, he said. In the bedroom with me and Gay, we talked about the J. Alexanders lunch we took him to and a few other things. We were laughing and talking, the pastor said. His wife had gotten home. She came in, laughed with us a little while, left. He (Brandon) got up, 10 minutes later, Pow' Pastor Kendrick said. I told Gay, Thats a gunshot,' he said. She said it was. Kelse Kendrick and her young son and daughter were among five people killed in Bibb County on July 18, 2024. Kelse's husband, Brandon Kendrick, is charged with capital murder.(Special to AL.com) Moments later, Brandon Kendrick walked into the bedroom with a gun in his hand. Gay Kendrick was closest to him. She grabbed the gun. It went off, Pastor Kendrick said. I dont know how it kept from hitting her. Yeah, yeah I do know, he said. Because our prayer time that night, about an hour before this incident, our prayer team stood here and joined hands and prayed for mine and Gays safety, he said. I had reached out to several of the church members, they were helping me trying to get some kind of help. So, they prayed for us. I was able to subdue him, Pastor Kendrick said of his grandson. And once that happened, he didnt know where he was at. He started asking me and Gay, Where am I at? Wheres Kelse? Why are you angry? Whatd I do wrong,' he said. Ten minutes before that hes laughing, talking and having a pretty good time, Pastor Kendrick said. Dont you think that if you dont have Jesus, youre going to walk out of here and everythings going to be cool because you aint no match for the devil. Do you think youre strong enough to resist the devil if he were to possess you? he said. You better get your heart right with God, because you may be the next one on national news. Two well-known evangelical leaders will serve as interim pastors of Gateway Church after its founder and senior pastor, Robert Morris, resigned following revelations of child sexual abuse. Max Lucado, a charismatic evangelical author and San Antonio pastor, and Joakim Lundqvist, a leader of an megachurch in Sweden, will share the responsibilities, the church told its congregations Sunday. Gateway, headquartered in Southlake, Texas, with 10 satellite churches across three states, has been embroiled in scandal after Morris was publicly accused of sexually abusing a girl in the 1980s, from when she was 12 until he was caught by her father when she was 16. Morris was in his 20s. Morris admitted to the abuse last month, saying he asked forgiveness, went to religious counseling called freedom ministry and established accountability measures. He left ministry in the church where he was working in the 1980s for two years before returning, he said, with the blessing of the girls father and leaders of that church. Move toward what God is doing Gateway elder Tra Willbanks told the congregation Sunday that the church was slow to release information on the abuse because leaders were praying about it and the church had contracted a law firm to conduct an independent investigation. Sunday morning, the first floor of the auditorium in the churchs Southlake location was about a third full for the 9 a.m. service and about half filled for 11 a.m. Signs at stairways outside the auditorium announced the balcony was closed and white curtains had been drawn over those seats. Willbanks delivered the first update to the church in person at the Southlake campus, the message livestreamed to the megachurchs other locations. During the 11 a.m. service, Willbanks message was replayed in a video before Lucado took the stage. He apologized for the characterization of Cindy Clemishire, the woman who was abused by Morris as a child, as a young lady. He said the church is praying for her and that Robert Morris actions were unacceptable. He announced that Robert Morris son, James Morris, and wife Bridget Morris would be leaving the church to establish a new one somewhere else. He did not share specifics about when or where the new church would be. In a scripted statement, the two of them said they loved the church and would be praying for its members. Willbanks told church members they should press in to Gateway instead of leaving the church over the crisis. Please do not let your hurt from the last several weeks drive you from Gateway, he urged. Move toward what God is doing in this place. Press in during this season. A dark wind out of nowhere Willbanks said another faith leader, who wasnt named, shared a prophecy with Gateway that he said he received while visiting Dallas last year after a tornado. He told Gateway leadership that God told him in a prophetic word that there were two winds coming to Gateway, first is a dark wind out of nowhere. It will uproot precious people, split friendships, but you are not to be afraid because the Lord is sending a second wind, Willbanks said. He said the prophecy said Gateway would lose members but that in the second wind it would grow larger. He said the wind would heal and restore. Dry bones will come alive, Willbanks recounted. Things that seemed to be gone will even return. Willbanks reminded congregants of another prophecy last year that said 10,000 youth would convert to Christianity at Gateway. He said he believes that prophecy and the one shared Sunday. Lucados sermon Sunday Delivering his first sermon as co-interim pastor, Lucado compared the exposure of child sexual abuse by Morris and the troubles the church was having to the story of Jesus and the disciples on the Sea of Galilee during a storm, during which Jesus walked on water. He told congregants the disciples were terrified when the storm hit while Jesus was asleep. They awoke him and asked him to save them but were surprised that he didnt seem concerned. Lucado told the congregation that Jesus told them not to be afraid and to have faith, comparing the storm to the news that Morris had abused a child. He said the fear and hurt members were feeling were similar to the fear the disciples felt. The storm, he said, would be calmed by Jesus the same way he did in that Bible story. Lucado heads up a large congregation in San Antonio at Oak Hills Church. He will deliver sermons about twice a month while continuing to lead his own flock. He said he is taking on the interim pastor role with the blessings of his church. In addition to leading Oak Hills, Lucado is a celebrity in evangelical circles who has written books that have sold more than 145 million copies combined, according to his website. Lucado grew up in Andrews, a small town in West Texas, and attended Abilene Christian University. He led a church in Florida before going to Oak Hills. Lundqvist pastors an evangelical congregation in Uppsala, Sweden, called Word of Life Church, which has more than 3,200 members. He also leads a network of more than 600 churches worldwide. In addition to preaching at Gateway, he will serve in the church office Monday through Wednesday for pastoral duties like meeting with members. Willbanks recounted that when Gateway wanted to ask Lundqvist to be an interim pastor, he flew in from Sweden, stayed five hours to meet with church leaders, accepted the position and returned home that same day. Lundqvist told members in a recorded video that he was excited to take on the role. He will continue his position with the church he leads in Sweden. Willbanks said the church has already taken steps to find a new senior pastor and expects a decision to be made within six months. _____ 2024 Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Visit star-telegram.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Mississippi-based telecommunications company C Spire has pulled its ads from the Paris Olympics, citing a scene it said made a mockery of Jesus Last Supper. We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. C Spire will be pulling our advertising from the Olympics. C Spire (@CSpire) July 27, 2024 The opening ceremony Friday featured a scene that showed drag performers sitting at a long table around a large, blue-painted man. A scene from the Olympic opening ceremony.Facebook Paris organizers said the tableau was supposed to reference Greek and Roman gods and French gastronomy, according to CBS News. The scene featured DJ and activist Barbara Butch and was intended to inspire love and inclusivity. But many interpreted it as a parody of the famous Leonardo Da Vinci painting depicting Jesus last supper with his disciples and, by extension, a critique about Christianity. Bishops from the French Catholic Church denounced the image and were joined by other Christians around the world. It sparked a firestorm of criticism on social media. U.S. politicians have also weighed in on the controversy, with Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., saying it was insulting for Christians. Last nights mockery of the Last Supper was shocking and insulting to Christian people around the world who watched the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. The war on our faith and traditional values knows no bounds today. But we know that truth and virtue will always pic.twitter.com/s88c9ymG9j Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) July 27, 2024 After C Spire announced its intention to pull advertising, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves tweeted his support of the company. Alabamas 2nd congressional district was drawn to give a Democratic politician the advantage, but the National Republican Congressional Committee is going all-in on its candidate 99 days before the Nov. 5 election. The NRCC announced Monday that Montgomery attorney Caroleene Dobson is one of 26 Republicans added to the Young Gun list. The program, founded in 2007, provides mentorship and support for Republican candidates seeking U.S. House seats. The NRCC also announced that the 2nd district is an official target for national Republicans on Nov. 5. The announcement means that the national campaign arms of both major political parties will be duking it out in a rare competitive congressional seat in Alabama. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) announced its involvement in the race in late May. Extreme House Democrats border, crime, and cost of living crises wrecked Americans safety and security, NRCC Chairman Richard Hudson said in a statement. Fortunately, these Republican candidates are already well on their way to running winning campaigns that will grow our House majority in November. Republicans want to keep the 2nd district, currently represented by U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, R-Enterprise. But the district was redrawn last fall to benefit a Democrat after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Alabamas congressional map violated the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The result is a newly redrawn district that gives Black voters a better opportunity to elect a candidate of their choosing. Moore decided not to run in the 2nd district, and instead opted to run in the redrawn and heavily conservative 1st congressional district. Moore defeated U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl, R-Mobile, during the March 5 Republican primary, and is poised to remain in Congress. Shormari Figures, Democratic candidate for the U.S. House in the 2nd congressional district of Alabama, speaks during a news conference on Monday, April 1, 2024, at Government Plaza in downtown Mobile, Ala.John Sharp The stakes are high in the 2nd district as Dobson and Democratic candidate Shomari Figures campaign for a seat that takes in all or part of 13 counties from Montgomery to Mobile and from the Georgia line to the Mississippi line. Justin Chermol, a spokesperson with the DCCC, said the national Democratic party is confident in Figures ability to win in November, and blasted Dobson as a radical, phony and extreme politician for her views on a number of issues including abortion rights. The DCCC is confident Shomari Figures will win in November, restore fair representation to his home district, and be a valued and trusted member of Congress come January 2025, Chermol said. Republicans hold a narrow 218 to 213 majority in Congress, and polling shows the race for the House majority will be tight. According to FiveThirtyEights analysis of polls asking people which party they would support in a generic congressional election, 45.1% say they support Republicans while 44.9% back Democrats. The two campaign committees have taken turns with major fundraising hauls. The DCCC raised a record-breaking $12.4 million in April, while the NRCC countered with $12.6 million in May. Dobson has also been impressive in fundraising, which was noted by the NRCC in naming her to the Young Gun program. According to the latest campaign finance reports, Dobson raised over $545,000, with the bulk coming from individual contributions. Figures raised over $475,000. Hudson, in comments to Punch Bowl News earlier this month, said he felt that if only a few of the districts Black voters backed Dobson, then the Republicans could be competitive. He called Figures fairly weak, and heaped praised on Dobson, saying she was really impressive. Figures is the son of longtime state Sen. Vivian Figures and the late Michael Figures, who served 18 years as a state senator until his death in 1996. Shomari Figures worked on former President Barak Obamas campaign and has recently served as a deputy chief of staff and counselor to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland while working in the Justice Department. Figures won the support of the Democratic Congressional Committee, which added him to their Red to Blue program in May. He joined 20 other Democratic congressional hopefuls who the DCCC much like the NRCC is providing financial and staff assistance throughout the campaign. Figures is the first Alabama congressional hopeful to be added to the Red to the Blue program since 2008. The DCCCs program began in 2006 under then-DCCC Chair Rahm Emanuel. This story was updated at 9:39 a.m. on Monday, July 29, 2024, with comments from the DCCC The U.S. State Department has updated a warning urging travelers to avoid a popular Caribbean hotspot. The update, issued July 25, urged people to reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime and lack of medical services. The department first issued its alert in February, citing an increase in home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults and murders, with some incidents occurring at popular all-inclusive resorts. The U.S. Embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts. U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory response to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence, the notice said. In its update, the State Department noted that while tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crimes than other parts of the country, incidents can occur throughout Jamaica, which has one of the highest homicide rates in the Western world. Jamaica is categorized under a level three advisory, meaning people should reconsider travel there. Other level three countries include Egypt, Pakistan, Lebanon, El Salvador, Guatemala and Saudi Arabia. Certain parts of the country are under a do not travel advisory for embassy personnel. More than 206,000 Americans visited the island nation last year. Healthcare concerns Adding to the Jamaica travel issues are issues related to healthcare, officials said. There are lower levels of emergency service response times and routine care for illnesses or injuries. Private hospitals require payment upfront before admitting patients and specialized care is limited. Ambulance services are not always staffed with trained EMTs or even readily available, especially in rural areas. Its recommended U.S. citizens who do travel to Jamaica bring their own prescription medication, especially for things such as insulin which can be difficult to obtain. We strongly encourage you to obtain travelers insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling, the alert noted. If you do travel to Jamaica, the State Department recommends: By February of this year, Joe Biden was already so cognitively impaired that nearly four-in-five Americans had revealed to pollsters that he was just too old to run for president again. Biden was already beginning to drown in polls against his opponent on nearly every issue that is important to Americans by double digits, including a massive 35% deficit on the vital issue of border security and controlling illegal immigration. For many of us, it was obvious that Biden wouldnt make it to November. It cant be Biden on the top of the ticket in 2024, I argued back then. And yet somehow, the prediction that he wouldnt be around in November to headline the ticket was considered a longshot prediction by all of the mainstream media and the supposedly smart set of political wonks. There just wasnt enough time to replace Biden in the primary process if they didnt replace him by March, we were told. If they were going to do it, theyd have to do it quickly, as Thomas Gift suggested. But, as I also observed in February, it made far more sense for Democrats to wait to pull the plug on Biden in the summertime rather than the early spring, because waiting until summer would eliminate the pesky primary process and the partys voters altogether. Having an honest and open primary introduces the risk that voters may choose a different candidate than the Democrat politburos preference, after all, just as they nearly did in the primary process of 2016 and 2020 when the party was forced to rig the primaries against Bernie Sanders. That went largely unreported by the left-wing media, but it managed to raise more than a few eyebrows on both sides of the political aisle. Waiting until after the primaries to replace Biden was a longshot prediction among the supposedly smart set, too. But, lo and behold, the mainstream media, the Hollywood elite, and the Democrat establishment operated in unison to prop up a rapidly diminishing Joe Biden in the spring, only to send him as a lamb to slaughter in an unprecedentedly early debate in late June. Afterward, they orchestrated a finely tuned, yet unconvincingly veiled, slow-motion coup to oust Joe Biden in late July, with roughly one month until convention. Whats interesting is that while these predictions may have once been considered longshot predictions, there was never anything illogical about them. In fact, it would have been far more illogical to imagine that Biden would continue campaigning into the fall as a viable candidate on the Democrat ticket, just as it would have been illogical to presume that Democrats would oust him in February to open a frenzied primary season, over which theyd have limited control to direct the outcome. It's been a pretty good year for logical longshot predictions, and I see no reason to stop making them now. And something just doesnt feel right in all this new focus about this being a sprint to November between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Now, I maintain that the Biden camps nearly immediate endorsement of Kamala Harris was a big middle finger to those conspiring in a coup against him. New information this week only serves as further evidence of that. As it turns out, Barack Obama reportedly threatened Biden with the 25th Amendment, telling him that Harris was on board to invoke it. Equally unsurprising is that Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, and Hakeem Jeffries were all in coordination. When Bidens announcement came with a surprise endorsement of Kamala Harris, none of these conspirators were quick to endorse Harris. What followed was a series of stringing endorsements by the establishment honchos, culminating with Obamas endorsement nearly a week later. If a show of unity is the goal, that goal would have been better served with a coordinated endorsement. But that didnt happen, which suggests confusion on the part of the Democrat party elite. And they would be right to have been confused. For lack of a better way of putting it, Kamala Harris simply doesnt fit in a winnable Democrat presidential campaign strategy. She is incredibly unlikeable, even in her own party. This is evident by the fact that she failed to get oxygen in a crowded field of Democrats in 2019. Despite holding a voting record that is to the left of avowed socialist Bernie Sanders (a fact that media apparatchiks are hilariously failing to expunge convincingly), she failed to gain any traction among the socialist bloc of Democrats and failed to make an impression in the moderate lane over which Biden, Buttigieg, Klobuchar, and Bloomberg were contesting. It feels crazy to even have to type this sentence, but if Kamala Harris couldnt make it to the first state primary vote in a contested Democrat primary, it seems strange to imagine that Democrats are betting the farm that shell win over moderate votes in the swing states. And what would be even crazier is imagining that Democrats could do this after her stint as vice president, where all logic points to Joe Biden having purposefully set her up to fail in the early task of addressing the longstanding and problematic issues with illegal immigration. From that point forward, her approval rating plummeted and remained lower than even Joe Biden, who was so unpopular that Democrats had to orchestrate a coup to be rid of him. None of this makes any sense. Not only because she is one of the most unproven and unlikeable candidates in the Democrats stable, but because she is a radical leftist from San Francisco whose voting record and rhetoric makes her a liability on the partys ticket in swing states. The internet is forever, and theres no equivocation about her position on some matters that are of crucial importance to millions of Americans, and particularly in those precious swing states. She has said that she supports the abolition of private insurance and a nationalized healthcare system. She supports taxpayers funding free college, an end to fracking and fossil fuels, defunding the police, open borders, and free healthcare for illegal aliens. Kamala Harris notably encouraged rioters in the leadup to the 2020 election and helped in fundraising for violent criminals and arsonists bail. And most importantly, she believes that it is the governments job to achieve the equality of all Americans outcome. In the words of the late, great Norm McDonald, thats all some commie gobbledygook. And Americans dont like that commie stuff. Some Democrats do, sure, but the ones theyve liked are named Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. And they havent been the candidates that the Democrat establishment has been promoting. Somehow, not only has the radical progressive standard finally become acceptable to the Democrat party, but theyve calculatedly decided that Kamala Harris will be the standard bearer in a national election? Im not buying it. Heres what we know. Selecting the VP to replace Biden was the easiest path. There are many reasons for this, and the selection of Hubert Humphrey at the 1968 Democrat convention serves as precedent. Just as in 2024, other Democrat candidates earned pledged delegates, but those Democrats were cast aside when the party elites decided who they wanted to anoint, absent any voter consent. The VP of the previous administration has implied voter consent, in a way. But what happens when it becomes just as apparent that Kamala cant win against Donald Trump as it had become that Joe Biden couldnt? It isnt just me noticing this problem. And for whatever reason, Bill Maher told his audience Friday night, Harris has never been popular. You can count how many delegates she won in the 2020 primary on one hand as long as that hand has no fingers. He points out that shes been quieter than an electric car in three years as vice president, but that its not fair that shes not popular, he said. Shes intelligent, and accomplished, and in fact, was put in charge of the border and look at O.K., bad example. [laughter] If Democrats are smart, theyll space out the potential polling bumps available to them all the way to November, and they will wait a week or so to announce a VP for the Harris ticket. If those bumps arent promising enough before convention, I would expect a replacement for Harris in an open convention. I have no reason to believe she cant be bought off, and a simple statement with sagging polls about her not being the best candidate to secure victory in the Electoral College against the greatest existential threat to democracy that America has ever known, or some such, would suffice. The way I see it, Democrats have a binary choice. Either they replace Kamala Harris in the coming weeks and vie for the presidency in November, or they keep Kamala on the ticket expecting a loss and regrouping for 2028. Or, theyre hoping for a miracle in the form of some miraculous vote-counting in key cities and districts in crucial states, if you get my meaning. Image: Gage Skidmore, via Flickr // CC BY-SA 2.0 This is not about the rock band. Its a phrase that should be a war cry against what has taken over the central governing powers of our country, what Vivek has called the system. In this election cycle, we are not running against Joe, or Kamala, nor anyone personally. We are running against an unusually coordinated series of institutions that seem to be in sync with each other in the worst of ways. A blob that has been captured by an inhuman, destructive, incompetent, vile ethos that seems to control it. In the end it does not matter whom the left chooses to push into the leader of this blob, be it Joe, Kamala, Michelle Obama, Nancy Pelosi, Gavin Newsom, or Gretchen Whitmer. Somehow these have become indistinguishable as to who would be worse. Elon Musk nails it when he speaks about the the woke mind set. Its a virus, infecting all good things in its path. This mindset has deep dark traits, individually, as a group, and has infected our system in very negative ways. This system began at our founding. It had ideals and principles that were great, principles intended to keep the system small and controllable. It was the genius of our constitution. Separating and enumerating powers, setting forth the rights and principles we have or should aspire to. Prescribing freedom, helping unleash the better angels of humanity to create a great civilization. The system has weaknesses, our country has its fair share of warts, but in spite of the left trying to tear it down, its hard to deny there hasnt been a better system in any other country. When Vivek says were running against a system, I agree. But we need to differentiate between what the left is doing with our original system, and Viveks verbiage. The left is trying to twist our original system, warping it into a political, psychological and spiritual machine to dominate its opponents, rather than to use it to benefit the citizens of our country. This is a machine. The leftist machine. This is what we need to rage against, because they genuinely desire to push us into a dystopian future, one where they hold the reins of power. The machine they have erected has several parts. The first cog is controlling the reins of governmental power, warping the bureaucracies, the DOJ, the FBI, CIA into institutions they should not be. Imputing ways of doing things contrary to their founding, contrary to the ideals of our nations founding, and of most of what the people in our country believe. The left has effectively taken control of these organs, and now uses them to solidify their own power, and to try to destroy those who oppose them. Examples: The current lawfare against Trump and others in his circle. Charging them with felonies for essentially jaywalking, for doing things all administrations have done, pretending these are now crimes. Literally trying to put their opponents in prison as third world countries and communists of all stripes have done in the past. Using the bureaucracies to forward their pet nonsensical ecological ideas to destroy energy creation, to destroy our economy, and the capacity of so many of us just to keep up with living expenses. Using our foreign policy institutions and the CIA to forward the goals of the corrupt and greedy military/industrial complex. Pushing us towards WWIII without a sense of proportion as to what that would mean for the country and the world. Opening the border to the control of the cartels, bringing us illegal drugs, human trafficking, the sex trading of children, and the intent to replace our country with citizens malleable to the whims of the left. They are using psychology, or psyops to put their opponents (us) in a bad position and paint us in a bad light. We are supposedly the ones who are the existential threat to democracy, extremists who...gasp...believe that the founding of our country was a good thing, had strong ideals, and made us a great nation. How they pulled the trick of painting us as extremists, and themselves as moderate, measured paragons of virtue is beyond me. The absurdity of those who believe that is stunning. The same crowd that lied about Russian collusion, about the Hunter laptop, about the senility of Joe, and most everything else is the same crowd that calls us liars. It is the manner of pushing their psyops that dredges up the third dimension of the machine. There is this unusual hidden spiritual dimension of what they are doing. This has been pointed out by Tucker Carlson, Jordan Peterson, Russel Brand, Candace Owens and so many others. Its an uncanny bent towards evil, manifesting itself into our institutions in surprising ways. They are coming against the Judeo/Christian principles we were founded on in obvious and evident ways. The left is showing its colors worldwide. Just look at the ugly depictions in the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. A mocking of the last supper with depictions of crazy, demonic and outwardly trans agendas being displayed. This from the same group that sent grandmothers who were peacefully praying outside abortion clinics to years in prison while they gave murderers and violent criminals a pass. This is a concerted effort by their media and tech toadies. Normalize evil, genuine evil, and send normal into the outer edges of space where it cannot be seen. It is this part of the machine that should have us all, not just concerned, but frantically adjusting our thinking. We are crossing that line of good and evil. No longer should we see them as simply incorrect, or that we have a difference of opinion. Rather, we need to understand these leftists are playing with genuine evil. Flaunting it, daring us to confront them or to say anything about it. We have not seen this in our lifetimes. Nothing like it has taken place. Evil is displaying itself more openly every day. With no apparent forethought or sense of shame. CS Lewis wrote about this tendency in the last century. He saw it quite clearly. The merging of science, politics, the educational establishment and the darker demons of life. He saw it all and described it well. I dont think he would be shocked to see how far this has progressed. As for us modern normies, we should be outraged. This is an attempt at an internal coup of our nation. The machine believes it should own us, it should be able to, in the name of goodness, take down our minds, our lives, and what we believe in. The machine has its digital imprint everywhere. In our phones, all our technological communications devices. It owns most of our media/tech complex. It owns our educational system, and at its heart there is a darkness that thirsts for power, wealth, and recognition. We can be happy for one thing. They are not God. Their power is fleeting, and not absolute in any sense. The machine has stumbled, and is now vulnerable. By showing itself for the evil that it represents, it is waking up too many of us to succeed. Arrogance has brought a premature revealing of itself. As a nation we are rising up. They have cornered themselves. Rage against them in a controlled manner. Work to rid this stain from our nation. Anything else would be a dereliction of our duties as people. Image: JSMed via Pixabay, Pixabay License. If Donald Trump wishes to implement his Trump 2.0 agenda, he must first win two critical battles: The Battle of the Steal and the Battle of the Deep State. Precisely because the Democrat Party successfully stole the 2020 election, they will be pulling out all stops to do it again. The Trump campaign and the Republican Party will be hard-pressed to Stop The Steal 2024, but stop it they must, and they are probably fully aware of the stratagems they face. The Battle of the Steal To win the Battle of the Steal, the Democrats have evolved two distinct modi operandi: the 3 a.m. strategy and the landscape strategy. The 3 a.m. strategy derives from the Democrat belief (maybe its a fact) that Republicans misunderstand how elections are won. The Democrat perception is that the Republicans believe elections are won by having the most votes. The Democrats understand the contrary is true: Elections are won by having the most ballots. Ballots, not votes, decide elections. The number of votes is limited by the number of voters: Only one vote per voter. But ballots can materialize out of thin air in whatever quantity is desired. That leads to a ballot-producing tactic: Stop the count at 3 a.m., assess how many votes are needed to prevail, conjure up however many ballots are required to close the gap, and at 6 a.m.Presto!Democrats win! The key to the 3 a.m. strategys viability is that there is no gap so large that it is immune to ballot generation. No wonder Brian T. Kennedy, President of the American Strategy Group, warns against ignoring the 3 a.m. strategy. The Landscape Strategy in the Battle of the Seal is called that because it is an exercise in shaping the electoral battleground. While Biden was a candidate, the campaign functioned as a sort of sea anchor, preventing him from making dramatic moves as President. Now, having resigned from the campaign, Biden is free to do as he pleases without his actions affecting the campaign. Richard Truesdell and Keith Lehmann call this Biden Unchained. How about universal amnesty allowing every illegal alien to vote? Could Biden get that through Congress? Well, its possible because the Democrats hold the Senate, and the Republicans hold the House by only nine votes. Biden would only need to buy 10 House Rinos to make illegal alien votes a reality. And were congressional legislation to prove a bridge too far, why not simply use an administrative regulation promulgated by the Department of Homeland Security? Packing the courta long-standing Democrat dreamis also a real possibility. The Battle of the Deep State If Trump manages to win the Battle of the Steal, we know he has several pressing agenda items. These issues include but are not limited to rebuilding the military, assuring energy availability, rectifying the migration mess, fixing education, and the many problems that fall under the heading of foreign affairs. But Trump knows from experience that merely taking his coffee in the Oval Office is not enough to enable him to work his will as President. Before he can do anything else, he must first seize the reins of the Executive Branch! This is the Battle of the Deep State. Until these reins are firmly in Trumps hands, he cannot implement his agenda. However, the Deep State forces are already entrenching themselves in Executive Branch offices, placing land mines and booby traps, determined as they are to retain their present hold on the executive branch. Charles Burris tells us this will be the central conflict of Trump 2.0. Richard Truesdell and Keith Lehmann argue that, between now and January 20, 2025, We expect Deep State operatives to issue multiple layers of regulatory rules over this period in an effort to prohibit their firing or re-assignment by a Trump administration looking to reform a wildly expanded administrative state that fought the former president at every turn during his first administration. Rabbi Shmuel Klatzkin drives home the point about what has been going on and what needs to be done: The ruling political elites have soiled themselves with their lies. The bureaucrats who betrayed the Constitution whose power they have enjoyed and then usurped all stand naked in their incompetence, venality, and unfaithfulness, covered with their own filth. The people are seeing this. And day by day, they are slowly letting everyone grasp that they will have their say. They are ready to clean up the mess. Trump knows all this. When Trump assumed office in Trump 1.0, he was a political novice. He was then bloodied, impeded, deceived, and betrayed. It will be a new and savvy Trump who takes office for Trump 2.0, a Trump who is acutely aware of the slings and arrows the deep state will deploy against him. And he knows he must now assemble and deploy a battle force of Lovers of liberty and Devotees Of The Republic eager to proclaim, This is our time! Image by Andrea Widburg using AI. The Houston Chronicle, one of the largest newspapers in the United States, was founded in 1901 and was acquired by Hearst in 1987. In addition to delivering in-depth coverage of local issues, the Chronicle is committed to covering state, national and international news. The newspaper operates a news bureau in Washington, D.C., that provides coverage of issues of special interest to residents of Houston and Texas. Now that Vice President Kamala Harris is the leading contender for the Democrat partys presidential nomination, the corporate media are gaslighting the public to a degree many of us never thought possible. The latest Orwellian history rewrite is whether Harris was President Bidens border czar. One example is left-wing Axios, called out via real fact-checking and X community notes, now denying that Harris was Bidens border czar. As Fox News reported, in the spring of 2021, Axios said, The number of unaccompanied minors crossing the border has reached crisis levels. Harris, appointed by Biden as border czar, said she would be looking at the root causes that drive migration. Now this week, Axios did a 180, rewriting history with this revision: The Trump campaign and Republicans have tagged Harris repeatedly with the border czar title which she never actually had. What is a czar? Technically, it is the Polish spelling for an emperor of Russia, the ruler of Russia until the 1917 revolution, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Informally, czars are government bureaucrats, high-level executive-branch officials who oversee a particular policy field. There have never been any U.S. government offices with the formal title czar. When did this term start? The earliest known use of the term for a U.S. government official was in the administration of Franklin Roosevelt (19331945), during which eleven unique positions (or twelve if one were to count economic czar and economic czar of World War II as distinct) were so described. Czar is not an actual government title. You wont find it in the U.S. Constitution or the Federal Register. But when a government official, such as the vice president, is placed in charge of a particular policy, he is indeed a czar for that issue. President Barack Obama had 13 czars, including an economic, drug, green jobs, and Afghanistan czar. Lets ask the all the news thats fit to print New York Times about this czar business. In April 2021, that paper reported, Roberta S. Jacobson, the former ambassador to Mexico whom President Biden chose as his border czar on the National Security Council, will step down at the end of the month. Jacobson was replaced by V.P. Harris. Mr. Biden announced that Vice President Kamala Harris would lead the governments diplomatic efforts with that region. In other words, the new border czar. The AP confirmed: President Joe Biden has tapped Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the White House effort to tackle the migration challenge at the U.S. southern border and work with Central American nations to address root causes of the problem. Despite Emperor Harriss new title, she did nothing, as the N.Y. Post observed, Where is Kamala? Two weeks since being named border czar, Harris still hasnt visited. The Daily Mail expressed similar thoughts: Harris will take her first trip to survey the southern border between the U.S. and Mexico on Friday even though she was named 'border czar' by the White House in March. By all definitions, Kamala Harris was the Biden administrations border czar. And she failed miserably, to the tune of 10,000 illegal migrants per day. As CBS News reported last December, In just five days last week, Border Patrol processed nearly 50,000 migrants who entered the U.S. illegally, with daily apprehensions surpassing 10,000 thrice, up from the 6,400 average last month, according to federal data obtained by CBS News. Roughly 1,500 additional migrants are being processed each day at official border crossings under a Biden program powered by a phone app. Yet the media will tell you otherwise that she was not what she was. As an aside, watch this bit of wit and wisdom, from the mistress of the married former San Francisco mayor Willie Brown, also get sunk down the medias memory hole. She made some inconvenient comments about ten years ago as Californias attorney general. Heres Reuters rewriting history: Harris can be heard saying in the 22-second snippet, And its a specific phase of life, remember, age is more than a chronological fact. What else do we know about this population, 1824? They are stupid. That is why we put them in dormitories, and they have a resident assistant. They make really bad decisions! Correct-think is that Harris was not the border czar and that she did not call Gen-Zers stupid. Lets see how that plays with her Gen Z paid social media influencers. If this sounds like Maos China or Stalins Soviet Union, it is. George Orwell wrote about totalitarianism. In his novel 1984, he described exactly what we are seeing today: Every record has been destroyed or falsified, every book rewritten, every picture has been repainted, every statue and street building has been renamed, every date has been altered. And the process is continuing day by day and minute by minute. History has stopped. Nothing exists except an endless present in which the Party is always right. Today we are no longer beholden to the network evening news and print newspapers. The internet lasts forever. Digital warriors can use alternative and social media to keep history alive, not allowing the ruling class, Deep State, or party (as Orwell describes it) to rewrite history. When the paid Democrat shills on X or the corporate media outlets attempt to gaslight the public in an effort to influence an election, dont let them. Keep history alive by reminding everyone about past facts and events, as noted above. Societies where the party is always right are dystopian hellholes. Dont let America follow that path. Brian C Joondeph, M.D. is a physician and writer. Follow on Twitter @retinaldoctor Substack Dr. Brians Substack Truth Social @BrianJoondeph LinkedIn @Brian Joondeph Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. I get news items in my email from the New York Times and the Washington Post every day, giving updates and headlines but I didn't see information about a mass killing yesterday in Israel. I also didn't see this information at the top of Drudge or Yahoo! News. Clearly, this kind of news didn't help them in their efforts to elect Kamala Harris and to continue the Biden-era world disasters. Iranian terrorists targeted and killed several children yesterday. I guess they were disposable. I also haven't heard a word about those children from Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, or their spokesman, John Kirby, yet. Trump kept the price of oil throughout his four years low, and that essentially kept Iran and Russia in check. Trump got the Abraham peace accords and Obama, Biden and their team of useful idiots let that go by the boards and essentially built up the finances of Iran, which pledges death to Israel and death to America. Europe also helps Iran. High oil prices also fund Russian killing in Ukraine. Trump worked to cut off the gas pipeline from Russia to Germany and warned Germany not to rely on Russia for their energy. He was laughed at. Russia did not attack Ukraine while Trump was in office but they have twice while Obama and Biden have been in office. And whom does the media cheer as being great on foreign policy and having adults in the room? Obama, Biden, and Harris. Not Trump who kept the world relatively peaceful. Most of the media is working as hard as they can to hide the Biden and Harris record and policies from the public. And here is some history that the people that the media is campaigning for didn't learn: The U.S. is not free because they caved to the tyrants from Britain. The patriots defeated the loyalists. The Civil War and slavery didn't end because the North appeased the South. They defeated them. World War II did not end because a peace agreement was signed at a table. Japan and Hitler were obliterated. The Soviet Union did not collapse because President Reagan appeased them. He essentially scared them to death and bankrupted them. Until the idiots in the Democrat party, including the campaign workers posing as journalists, understand that the existential threat to the world are terrorists and tyrants with weapons, and not a computer generated climate forecast, we are in trouble. I thought the media would be embarrassed by now about all their lies about Russian collusion or covering up the laptop and Biden family corruption, but I was wrong. They are congenital liars, just like Biden, Obama, and Harris. Now they are working tremendously hard to hide Kamala's pure incompetence, especially as border czar. They can't let the public see the truth as they actively interfere in the election as they pretend to care about democracy. What kind of president would Kamala Harris be if she were in office and another 9/11 struck? According to reporter Seymour Hersh, probably a pretty surprised one. She doesn't read her daily presidential intelligence briefings, because, well, that's "homework." Kamala doesn't do homework, as previous reports have noted. According to Hersh's subscription-only Substack, President Obama read Joe Biden the Riot Act about stepping down from his re-election bid, saying that Congress was ready to go on invoking the 25th Amendment against him and that he had "Kamala's approval" for it. Kamala would be the nominee if she could perform, and here was Obama's concern: One possible drawback, I was told, was Harriss sometime disdain for the work of the US Intelligence Community. She is known not to be especially interested in the Presidents Daily Brief, a highly classified summary of current intelligence that is prepared overnight by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and delivered by hand to the most vital offices in Washington, including the vice presidents. The document, which includes signals intelligence, is to be read by the addressee in the presence of the delivering intelligence officer. I was told that Harris often showed little interest in reading the document and at some point asked the agency to stop delivering it to her. Now, as a presidential candidate, she is being kept up to date on all significant intelligence matters. There's a pretty good thread of comments on this post here as to the implications of it: Everything you need to know about @KamalaHarris. "She is known not to be especially interested in the Presidents Daily Brief, a highly classified summary of current intelligence that is prepared overnight by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and delivered by Roxanne Hoge (@RoxanneHoge) July 28, 2024 We've known for a long time that she's stupid and indifferent to national security as her performance as Biden's point person on the border pretty well proves it. Millions of unvetted foreigners have crossed over illegally into the U.S. since Harris took on the "border czar"task, doing the exact opposite of what she asked them not to do ("do not come, do not come,") and among them are thousands of national security risks -- spies, terrorists, drug lords, slavers, criminals -- entering illegally and being released into the country. Those are the ones we know about, and there are about a million we don't, owing to their being what the Border Patrol calls "gotaways." National Security? Not something she cares about. Now we learn she don't-know-much-about America's overseas commitments, either, which requires some kind of command of history and geography as well as international politics and military affairs. It's why NATO leaders got statements like this from her, remember this? They must have been aghast. The good part here is that this stupidity angers the national security establishment which has a zillion "ways to Sunday" to do her in as a candidate and president, to paraphrase Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. After all, that's their "product" and we know what they tried on President Trump, who didn't reject his daily briefs. But this is something entirely different, a stupid and easily manipulated person who doesn't even pay attention to intelligence briefings for the prestige purposes, which is what some do, and which might be in character. Yet she doesn't, it's too much homework, and we all know that Kamala doesn't do homework. Who needs a national security briefing when one has Instagramming to do and sorority sisters to giggle with? Any questions as to why she didn't meet with Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu last week? Bibi would have made her feel as though she were intellectually drowning. Jack Posobiec reported three years ago that his sources told him the intelligence people seemed to be extra solicitous of her: Have heard from multiple White House and national security officials that Kamala is getting the full PDB daily. Highly unusual and Biden didnt even get that himself when he was VP. Jack Poso (@JackPosobiec) March 12, 2021 But she seems to have rejected them, according to Hersh. Yet this isn't the first time we have heard this -- her refusal to do "homework" also been linked to her horrendous behavior around staff: Staffers who worked for Harris before she was vice president said one consistent problem was that Harris would refuse to wade into briefing materials prepared by staff members, then berate employees when she appeared unprepared, the Washington Post reports. One former staffer told the paper, Its clear that youre not working with somebody who is willing to do the prep and the work. With Kamala, you have to put up with a constant amount of soul-destroying criticism and also her own lack of confidence. So youre constantly sort of propping up a bully, and its not really clear why. The bottom line here is that if Hersh's reporting is right, she isn't interested in national security and doesn't care what happens to the country from external threats. Like the prosecutor she has frozen her personality to, she prefers instead to go after the petty crimes, the thought crimes of the opposition, throwing the book at those so-called "threats," of whatever is fashionable at the moment. She's interested in abortion, interior decorating, and "historic firsts" to brag about so far as can be told, she doesn't have much else to offer to voters because she doesn't seem to think about much else. National security is completely foreign to her. That's an ominous development, because we know that Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, the global terror networks, and even weak, malevolent countries such as Mexico, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Cuba are listening. They will move on this information, knowing their best chance has come to get what they want. Obama's warning to perform or else is a reference to the polls, not the actual job of president. That will be terrible news for us as a country, and could in the ends seal our doom if this idiot, God forbid, ever becomes president. Image: Gage Skidmore, via Flickr // CC BY-SA 2.0 In every military engagement, the aim is to decisively defeat the enemy, launching them into a headlong retreat. The victorious army pursues and annihilates the routed enemy. The danger for the victorious army is that the enemy can regroup and stage a comeback. Despite the Democrats best efforts, their enemyDonald Trumpstaged just such a comeback, and theyre in the final phase of trying again to defeat him. This time, though, voters are finally seeing the moving parts behind the machinations. After four years of non-stop attacks against Trump (the Russia hoax, the Ukraine hoax, the very fine people hoax, etc.), in 2020, the Democrat party power brokers supported Joe Biden, correctly viewing him as the only candidate whom they could cast as a moderate. Obama, with his jokingly expressed dream of a term that had no accountability, believed (correctly) that he could staff Bidens executive branch and dictate policy. Through an election half of Americans suspect was rife with fraud, Democrats dragged Biden into the White House. The moment he was installed, they destroyed those Trump supporters who appeared at the Capitol on January 6. (Many believe with some justification that January 6 was a set-up intended to create just the uncontrolled situation that resulted, allowing the idea of an insurrection to enter the leftist consciousness and justifying the brutal crackdown on Trump supporters.) Image: YouTube screen grab (edited). After January 6, Pelosi cemented the Democrats total government takeover by installing the National Guard and barbed wire around the Capitol building. Bidens inauguration suddenly looked like a third-world coup. Pelosi followed that up with the partisan J6 Committee. Meanwhile, the Justice Department didnt stop with its purge of Trump supporters. It also arrested those close to Trump. In this, the DOJ was aided by corrupt attorneys general in both New York and Georgia, both of whom ran on platforms boasting that they would destroy Trump. After leaving the White House on January 20, 2021, and returning to Mar-a-Lago, Trump decided to run for president again. That triggered the Biden Administration to launch a coordinated lawfare campaign to destroy him financially and, if possible, to imprison himagain, with help from those state AGs. All of them underestimated Donald J. Trump, who was determined to fight, fight, fight. He took on all the fraudulent indictments head-on and carried out a presidential campaign at the same time. He dealt with a social media gag order by creating his own Social Media platform, Truth Social, that has guaranteed he always has a voice. And the Democrat lawfare campaign backfired, bringing Trump increased popularity and fundraising while one case after another fell apart. Even as Trump soared with voters, Bidens fight with senility became more and more difficult for the Democrats to hide. Trump, knowing that Biden would avoid a debate, made him an offer that he couldnt refuse: a debate anytime and anyplace. Then, he accepted Bidens conditions that the debate be moderated by CNN, without an audience, with controlled microphones. The result was that the world saw Bidens dementia. Suddenly, the DemocratsHarris, Obama, Pelosi, Clyburn, and all the otherscould no longer gaslight voters into ignoring Bidens rapidly advancing cognitive degeneration. With the writing on the wall, they maneuvered more or less in broad daylight to remove Biden from the White House. An obdurate Biden made the maneuver difficult. The House of Cards came tumbling down when President Trump was almost assassinated in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024, and Corey Comperatore was killed. The Democrats lost their last ace up their sleeve, as Trump remained alive and more popular than ever. All that was leftand there couldnt be anything subtle about itwas to remove Biden from the campaign trail. Apparently using the threat of the 25th Amendment, they strong-armed him out of the office. And with much fanfare and no voter input, they maneuvered into his place the only feasible candidate they had, the impossible Kamala Harris. We need to see Kamalas ascension for what it is: Having failed to destroy Trump, they are now stuck with an obvious, panicked, undemocratic attempt to salvage a lost presidential campaign. Trump has routed the Democrats, and they are retreating into the convention citadel to await complete annihilation. Everything is in the open, so even their convention shenanigans will be apparent to all. They are facing total and utter defeat, which includes losing not only the White House but the House and Senate. President Trump needs to do what I am confident he will do. Advance in a headlong pursuit of the enemy until they are politically annihilated. Have no mercy. Take no prisoners. Only complete and unconditional surrender is acceptable. According to a new study published by the Council on Criminal Justice, the homicide rate in New York City is 20% higher than it was just a few short years ago. Heres the story, from a report out at the New York Post: NYC homicide remains 20% above pre-pandemic levels even as national average drops below New York Citys homicide rate remains higher than it was before the pandemic in 2019 even as the national average has largely returned and even dropped below pre-pandemic levels, a major new national crime study has found. Homicide rates are up about 20% through the first half of 2024 compared to the same time in 2019, the Council on Criminal Justices (CCJ) newly-released Mid-Year Crime Report found. Now Im not convinced that the national average has actually decreasedI exposed this narrative previouslyunless youre using Bernie Madoffs system of accounting as someone quipped online, but thats beside the point, because that heightened 20% is quite a stunning discrepancy, and its important to consider the cause of such a drastic deviation from the norm, especially so because these are violent crime rates about which were talking. So, take your pick: Is it because New York City invited (directly and by proxy) third world individuals, many of whom are prone to criminal behavior, either for survival culturally, or are simply war-hardened, to live on the public dole? Perhaps because activists have rubbed raw the sores of discontent and stirred angry misfits into politically motivated violence? Maybe it was the elimination of the traditional system of justice that kept this nation lawful and orderly for so long, with officials and voters ushering in an era of progressive reforms like cashless bail, reparative justice, and release rather than detention the default in criminal cases? Or, could it simply be the fact that the judiciary has been weaponized, and prosecutors and their respective offices have been devoting tremendous resources to taking down political opponents instead of dangerous criminals? Well, all of the above. To the first bullet point, from another NYPost item today: Three people shot one fatally after overnight gunfire near Randalls Island migrant center No arrests had been made early Monday. The NYPD reportedly is looking for at least two suspects, one of whom is believed to have fled on a moped with New Mexico license plates. Could the assailants be involved in the moped gangs of South American (Venezuelan) thugs causing mayhem all over the Big Apple? Based on the very limited details, it seems like the most plausible explanation at this moment in time. To the second bullet point, the NYPost report cited at the outset also included this detail: Homicide across Gotham spiked severely during the 2020 summer of unrest. If you recall, that was the summer that George Floyd suffered a drug-induced medical episode while under arrest after trying to pass off a fraudulent billBLM and Antifa thugs then went on mostly peaceful rampages, attacking and killing with impunity. To the third bullet point, a mother of a man randomly shot in the head in Crown Heights said this: [Crime] has gotten worse, and let me tell you the reason why its gotten worse. Its because people are literally getting away with murder, Hollie said. Rudy Giuliani cleaned up the violent crime in the city because he cleaned up the little crime in the citypermitting lawlessness only begets escalating lawlessness. And to the last point: The political persecution and prosecution of President Trump, at the hands of Attorney General Letitia Peekaboo James and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, was a tremendous diversion of resources, both financial and manpower. How much taxpayer money was spent by these two Stalinist sickos to try to derail Trumps run instead of using their delegated authority and purses to take down violent criminals murdering innocent New Yorkers? As is the case with all political problemshyperbolic but not untruewe have only leftist, progressive, Democrat policies to blame. Image: Free image, Pixabay license. The Constitution means what it says. It establishes all the lawful conditions that may be placed on each branch of government. However, Joe Biden announced today that his explicit goal is to override those conditions and he does so in a way manifestly intended to delegitimize the Supreme Court in the eyes of at least half of America. This is, effectively, an insurrection. The Founders who ratified the Constitution bent their efforts to one purpose: decentralizing power to maximize individual liberty. Thats why they created a tripartite, balanced government, giving each branch unique powers, along with limited checks and balances over the other branches. Article III, which establishes the judicial branch of the federal government, is not complicated. Section 1 establishes the Court. The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office. Because there is no term of office stated (unlike the case for Congress and the presidency), as long as federal judges display that good Behaviour (a legal term of art) they serve for life or until retirement. The only way to remove a judge is through impeachment (the powers of which are divided between the House and the Senate in Article I). Image (edited) from Pixabay. CC0. Thats it. Theres nothing in there saying that Congress or the president can impose terms limit on the Supreme Court, which have been routinely rejected throughout American history, nor can they impose upon it a code of conduct. We all know how the overlapping checks and balances work: Congress makes laws, the president must enforce those laws, and the Court system can review the laws for constitutional legitimacy or to determine whether the president is correctly enforcing them. In addition, some other overlaps include things such as Congresss say in executive appointments and divisions of power regarding war. The goal, always, is to keep one branch from accruing too much power at the expense of the others. For Biden, though, a senile lame-duck president, the sky is the limit when it comes to making unconstitutional demands. Hes gone in six months, and everything his handlers do now is dedicated to making the base happy. Thats why Biden announced this morning that he wants a constitutional amendment to ban presidential immunity (which would destroy him if ever ratified), as well as congressional action to impose term limits and a code of conduct on the Supreme Court. Heres the full text of his demands: 1. No Immunity for Crimes a Former President Committed in Office: President Biden shares the Founders belief that the Presidents power is limitednot absoluteand must ultimately reside with the people. He is calling for a constitutional amendment that makes clear no President is above the law or immune from prosecution for crimes committed while in office. This No One Is Above the Law Amendment will state that the Constitution does not confer any immunity from federal criminal indictment, trial, conviction, or sentencing by virtue of previously serving as President. 2. Term Limits for Supreme Court Justices: Congress approved term limits for the Presidency over 75 years ago, and President Biden believes they should do the same for the Supreme Court. The United States is the only major constitutional democracy that gives lifetime seats to its high court Justices. Term limits would help ensure that the Courts membership changes with some regularity; make timing for Court nominations more predictable and less arbitrary; and reduce the chance that any single Presidency imposes undue influence for generations to come. President Biden supports a system in which the President would appoint a Justice every two years to spend eighteen years in active service on the Supreme Court. 3. Binding Code of Conduct for the Supreme Court: President Biden believesthat Congress should pass binding, enforceable conduct and ethics rules that require Justices to disclose gifts, refrain from public political activity, and recuse themselves from cases in which they or their spouses have financial or other conflicts of interest. Supreme Court Justices should not be exempt from the enforceable code of conduct that applies to every other federal judge. None of the above can happen, of course. The first demand (amending the Constitution to reverse the Supreme Courts decision in Trump v. United States, which acknowledges immunity when a president exercises his plenary powers) requires Article V processes, which are intentionally laborious: (1) Two-thirds of both houses of Congress agree on a proposed Amendment, which is then sent to the states in the hope that three-quarters of them ratify it or (2) a constitutional convention convened by two-thirds of all state legislatures, with outcome of such a convention then sent to the states, at which time three-quarters must ratify the amendment. With regard to ending presidential immunity, its never going to happenand Biden should be grateful for that fact. As for term limits and a binding code of conduct, Congress has no authority to impose on the Supreme Court a handicap that limits in any way the powers and freedoms granted to the Court under the Constitution. Indeed, in 1995s U.S. Term Limits, Inc. v. Thornton, the Supreme Court noted James Madisons concern about anything that would vest an improper & dangerous power in the Legislature, by which the Legislature can by degrees subvert the Constitution. That principle guided the Courts conclusion that we reaffirm that the qualifications for service in Congress set forth in the text of the Constitution are fixed, at least in the sense that they may not be supplemented by Congress. The same overarching constitutional principle obviously applies to the terms of service for the Supreme Court. Whatever Biden, the bottom-of-his-class legal scholar and never-taught-a-class law professor, may think, his handlers know that all these proposals are complete garbage. The first (to amend the Constitution) will never happen, and the second and third cannot happen. The sole purpose for putting this out there is to instill in American minds the belief that the United States Supreme Court is an illegitimate organization and that its rulings can be ignored (as Biden, boastfully, has done before). And if you doubt that, look at how the same presidential fact sheet explains the reason for these unconstitutional demands: In recent years, the Supreme Court has overturned long-established legal precedents protecting fundamental rights.[*] This Court has gutted civil rights protections, taken away a womans right to choose, and now granted Presidents broad immunity from prosecution for crimes they commit in office. At the same time, recent ethics scandals involving some Justices have caused the public to question the fairness and independence that are essential for the Court to faithfully carry out its mission to deliver justice for all Americans. President Biden believes that no oneneither the President nor the Supreme Courtis above the law. Democrats have told us for over three years now that attacking a branch of the federal government is an insurrection. Thats exactly what Biden and his handlers are doing here. _______________________ *Once upon a time, both chattel slavery and separate but equal were long-established legal precedents protecting fundamental rights. The Court can and should correct fundamental constitutional errors. Natural gas powered electric generation plants are visible at the WA Parish Generating Station in Richmond. The state seeks to encourage development of more such stations. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer A taxpayer-backed fund providing low-interest loans primarily to build new natural gas power plants to connect to the Texas grid has received 72 applications requesting more than $24.4 billion to finance more than 38 gigawatts of projects. The applications represent a pullback from the initial enthusiasm expressed by developers but still exceed the $5 billion available in the first funding cycle of the Texas Energy Fund. Texans have made it clear that they expect reliable electricity today and well into the future, and I am pleased to see industry leaders responding to that call and planning for major investments in dispatchable power for the state, Thomas Gleeson, chairman of the Public Utility Commission of Texas, said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The application period closed Saturday for developers seeking low-interest loans to build power generation for the grid operated by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. The PUC will decide which projects will proceed to the due diligence stage at the commissions Aug. 29 open meeting, according to the agencys statement. Elected state leaders, the PUC and ERCOT have pushed for more dispatchable power generation facilities, those for which electricity output can be controlled more easily than renewable resources dependent on weather conditions, as a solution to stabilize the sometimes-fragile Texas grid. That movement only gained speed after ERCOTs estimate this spring that the state could expect roughly double its power demand by 2030. If built, the 38 gigawatts of proposed projects detailed in the Texas Energy Fund applications would increase gas capacity on the ERCOT grid by more than 50%. How much of that supply will materialize is uncertain at least one major power generation company, Houston-based NRG Energy, has said it wont build 1.6 gigawatts of shovel-ready natural gas power plants unless it knows by September that it will receive $925 million from the fund. Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov Dan Patrick have said they want to expand the Texas Energy Fund to $10 billion from $5 billion as soon as possible. When lawmakers approved the fund in 2023, it was intended to be a $10 billion program; the 2023 legislative session allocated $5 billion this year, with plans to allocate another $5 billion in the 2025 legislative session. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Whether Abbott and Patrick intend to make the second half of the fund available sooner or add to the planned $10 billion is unclear, though the two wrote in a letter Thursday to the heads and executive directors of state agencies that priorities for the next appropriations bill will include additional funding for dispatchable power generation. Actress Alyssa Milano has said Russia has no morals after hearing the stories of Ukrainian medical workers who were unable to save children after their hospital was hit by a missile. The Charmed star was chatting with workers from the Okhmatdyt Childrens Hospital, which was hit by a Russian cruise missile, while children were being treated. The hospitals general director, Volodymyr Zhovnir, told Milanos Sorry Not Sorry podcast, he had been forced to tell parents he couldnt do anything to save their children due to the missile. Alyssa Milano has recently joined United24 as an ambassador (United24/PA) The podcast had been organised as part of a fundraiser to rebuild the hospital, bring run by United24, which Milano has recently become an ambassador for. After hearing the stories, Milano said: Imagine doing that work in the middle of a war zone, where your country has been illegally invaded by an authoritarian with a huge army and no morals. Imagine worrying not only about whether or not treatment will save this child, but whether or not you will die, simply because youre doing your job in a place that has no business being so dangerous. Milano is best known for playing Phoebe Halliwell in the supernatural TV series Charmed, she also starred in the US soap Melrose Place, The Blue Hour, and Little Sister. She is also known for being a keen activist since the 1980s, raising awareness of women and children with Aids, natural disasters, and the MeToo movement, as well as other causes. Mr Zhovnir told the 51-year-old that electricity and water being turned off during the war had also put increased pressure on doctors work. He said: Treating children is a huge responsibility, and during the war, it is much bigger, as there are many moments that you have no control over, the turning off of electricity, water, or other critical systems for the patient. And these are all trifles compared to missile attacks on Ukrainian hospitals. For me, the worst thing is to tell the parents that I, as a doctor, couldnt do anything, and the child died. When there is war, the risk of saying that I couldnt save the child because a missile hit the hospital increases by a million times. Anna Isaeva, who works in the hospitals paediatric intensive care unit, echoed his comments, and said workers were forced to use their own bodies as human shields during the attack. She said: We were near the children, covering them with pillows and blankets so that they would not be injured by debris. When we heard the explosions, the staff shielded the children with their own bodies. They were not hurt. One of the hospitals surgeons, Ihor Kolodka, added that medics were blown across the room while operating on a five-year-old child. He said: We were in the operating room and started the surgery before the air raid alert started. Unfortunately, we couldnt take the child from the operating table. We had to complete the surgery. This child was five months old. Milanos podcast is to be released in the coming days, and a fundraiser, set up by the United24 group she supports, for the Okhmatdyt hospital has since raised seven million US dollars to help rebuild it. Arsenal have completed the signing of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna as Emile Smith Rowe departs the Emirates Stadium. Calafiori, 22, was highlighted as a priority target for the Gunners this season and they have landed their man for a fee of 42million. Calafiori has signed a five-year deal at the Emirates having played for Italy during their Euro 2024 campaign. Making us stronger All the lowdown on our Riccardo Calafiori signing Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 29, 2024 We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence, said manager Mikel Arteta. Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive. Were looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come. Calafiori, who can also operate at left-back, becomes Arsenals second major summer acquisition after David Rayas loan move from Brentford was made permanent. Calafiori has already joined up with his new team-mates on their tour of the United States and said Arsenal is the perfect place for him. Asked what he can bring to the club, he said on Sky Sports News: Maybe my mentality, I like to win, I want to give this to the team. I am confident with the ball, I like to play, this is the perfect place for me. While Calafiori has come in, England international Smith Rowe has left for London rivals Fulham. Arsenals Emile Smith Rowe appears to be on his way out of the club (Mike Egerton/PA) The 24-year-old, a Hale End academy graduate, struggled to break into the first-team with a number of injuries also hampering his progress. Smith Rowe made just 13 Premier League appearances last season and the PA news agency understands a deal worth up to 34million has been struck with Fulham, with 27m paid and a further 7m in potential add-ons making it a club-record deal for the Whites. The French border control zone at the Port of Dover will be expanded to reduce the risk of queues at peak times when new EU rules come into force. Under the EUs Entry/Exit System (EES), expected to come into force in the Autumn, travellers entering from the UK and other non-EU countries will have to register their details at the EU border and provide biometric data. As the Government prepares for the change, Home Office Minister Seema Malhotra laid a statutory instrument in Parliament on Monday to allow French border officials to operate in an expanded zone at the Port of Dover. It will commit the Home Office to working with the French Government, local authorities and businesses to streamline EU border checks at the port. The change in law is part of the preparations to minimise the risk of traffic disruption. The aim is to create more space to process passengers for a better customer experience. The Home Office is working with the French Interior Ministry to amend the border control arrangements between the two countries to accommodate the expanded zone. The port plans to change the location of passport control for passengers arriving to board the ferry from the Eastern Docks to a new border control zone at its Western Docks. The port has also been making major upgrades to its port infrastructure, including building bespoke facilities to carry out the checks. It will have 24 kiosks for coach passengers to complete the checks and will register passengers in cars using agents and tablets. Work is also under way to support other ports where France operates immigration control. The Eurostar will have almost 50 kiosks for people to carry out the checks spread across three locations at the station. Eurostar passengers will be affected by the changes (Gareth Fuller/PA) The Eurotunnel will have more than 100 kiosks and estimates that the new checks will add just over five minutes to journey times. The EES automated IT system aims to speed up border control by replacing passport stamping. It registers non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay each time they cross the external borders of Schengen countries. They will need to have their fingerprints scanned and a photograph taken. Ms Malhotra said the checks will be a major change to the EU border so the public should prepare for some queues during peak times when they are first introduced. She said that Home Office ministers were working swiftly to minimise the risk of excessive queue times as much as possible. But she added we have lost valuable time under the previous government, which she had not done enough to mitigate the impact of the change. The EUs Entry/Exit System has been in the pipeline for several years. But instead of pulling out all the stops to ensure travellers and businesses coming into and out of Britain will be unaffected, the previous government seems to have sat on its hands and let others get on with the hard work needed, she said. Huw Edwards was one of the most recognisable faces on British television, having anchored coverage of major national events and presented the BBCs News At Ten for decades. The 62-year-old fronted the flagship nightly news programme for the last 20 years, earning a reputation as a respected veteran broadcaster, before he resigned from the corporation in April. On Monday, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the former presenter has been charged with making indecent images of children. Edwards faces three charges over alleged activity between December 2020 and April 2022 and is due in court on Wednesday. Huw Edwards (Dominic Lipinski/PA) Born in Bridgend and brought up in Llangennech, Carmarthenshire, Edwards joined the BBC as a trainee in 1984. During his four decades at the corporation, he was among the broadcasting teams leading coverage of historic events including the late Queens funeral in 2022 and most recently the coronation of the King in May 2023. Edwards, a married father of five, also announced the late Queens death on the BBC in September 2022. Over the years he was the BBCs go-to presenter for big news events and was front and centre in live broadcasts of election coverage, the Queens Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and Platinum Jubilee in 2022, the wedding of the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018, and the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh in 2021. He was also the BBCs voice at Trooping the Colour and the Festival of Remembrance. Edwards was a Westminster correspondent for 13 years and played a key role in the BBCs political reporting, taking over election coverage from the long-serving David Dimbleby in 2019. He told Radio Times in 2019: Im going to let you in on a secret: the first time a senior BBC manager dangled this carrot in front of me was in 1992. So its been at the back of my mind since then. Edwards announced the late Queens death on the BBC in September 2022 (PA) Edwards was the corporations highest paid newsreader, with a pay bracket of 475,000 and 479,999 for the year 2023/24, before he resigned, according to the BBCs latest annual report. This last salary marked an increase from 2022/23, when he was paid between 435,000 and 439,999 for 180 days presenting on BBC One, as well as news specials. In 2018, it was reported he agreed to take a pay cut following revelations over unequal pay for men and women at the BBC. Edwards said in 2021 that he was considering his future presenting News At Ten as he approached his 60th birthday. A time comes when youre bound to reassess whats in front of you, he told Radio Cymru in a Welsh-language interview. Now that a big milestone is here, which is 60 years old, its natural for a man to think Am I going to continue in this job for another five years, or do I want to do something different? The nightly news business, after 20 years, that can be taxing, even though I still enjoy the job. I dont think Ill be doing that for long. Because I believe that, in the first place, I think its fair for the viewers to get a change. Secondly, I have co-workers who are very talented its time to give them a chance too. Huw Edwards with the live event award for the state funeral of the late Queen at the Tric Awards at the Grosvenor House Hotel (Ian West/PA) But Edwards said he would not be giving up journalism entirely. He added: I wont disappear tomorrow from the 10 oclock news because Im still enjoying myself. But of course, Im thinking about the working patterns of the future. And the truth is that I dont want to sustain these working patterns for a long time to come, because I dont believe its a very wise thing at all. An article on the BBC website in 2002 said Edwards was determined to stamp his own identity on News At Ten. You dont want to let people down, but at the same time, I want to do it in my own way. I dont want to be a clone of Sissons or Buerk, he said. Edwards, who attended Llanelli Grammar School and graduated in French from Cardiff University, is an honorary professor in the School of Journalism, Media and Culture at his old university. In June 2023, Edwards picked up the best live event honour at the Tric Awards for being among those to cover the state funeral of the late Queen, and in February he received the Broadcast Awards special recognition award. Edwards is listed as a vice president on the website of the National Churches Trust and has appeared on Songs Of Praise. He has also made documentaries for the BBC including Wales: Who Do We Think We Are? and talked about his depression on S4Cs Huw Edwards Is 60. In a documentary in 2021, Edwards revealed he has had bouts of depression over the last two decades which have left him bedridden. Like everyone that suffers with depression, you dont get one bout of it. It comes and goes, he said. For me, it started around 2002 I think. I went down fairly quickly and I couldnt understand it. Speaking on a podcast hosted by Jane Garvey and Fi Glover, Fortunately With Fi And Jane, he said he decided to share publicly that he has depression as he felt it was complete hypocrisy to support organisations such as the Shawmind Foundation or Mind without explaining why. I also felt that it might be someway helpful to people if I opened up about it and say, You can do a job and you can be successful, whether its just reading a bit of autocue or doing whatever it is while also dealing with issues like that, he told the podcast. An escalation in fighting between Israel and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah could be much more serious than the war in Gaza, a minister has warned. Pat McFadden urged against further escalation of the conflict, which has seen an exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces since October last year along the Israel-Lebanon border, in southern Syria, and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights region. A rocket from Lebanon struck a football field in the Golan Heights on Saturday, killing 12 children and teenagers, according to Israeli authorities. Hezbollah has denied responsibility for the attack, which has raised fears of a potential escalation of fighting in the Middle East. Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden said a full-scale Israel-Hezbollah conflict could be much more serious than the Israel-Hamas war (James Manning/PA) Israels security cabinet has authorised the countrys prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his government to decide on a wider response to the attack, following an initial exchange of fire in its aftermath. Asked about the possibility for escalation in the conflict, Cabinet Office minister Mr McFadden told Sky News: I think this is very serious. Since October 7 last year, we have all been focused on the situation in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. We have known that there is this other situation in northern Israel between Hezbollah and Israel, and that has the potential to be a much more serious situation than even the one that we have been watching unfold in Gaza over the last 10 months. Asked if the Government would support an Israeli ground invasion against Hezbollah, Mr McFadden said: We will always argue for Israels right to defend itself, but we hope in this situation that cooler and calmer heads will prevail and we do not see a full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has spoken to Lebanons Prime Minister Najib Mikati about the situation. I spoke to Prime Minister @Najib_Mikati today to express my concern at escalating tension and welcomed the Government of Lebanons statement urging for cessation of all violence. We both agreed that widening of conflict in the region is in nobodys interest. David Lammy (@DavidLammy) July 29, 2024 Mr Lammy said he expressed his concern at the escalating tension and welcomed the Government of Lebanons statement urging for cessation of all violence. We both agreed that widening of conflict in the region is in nobodys interest, Mr Lammy said after the call. The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Were calling on all parties to de-escalate. We urge both the Israeli and Lebanese governments to engage with the US-led discussions to reach a political settlement and resolve these tensions diplomatically. Since October 8, a day after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, Israel and Hezbollah have been trading fire, but cross-border fighting has ramped up in recent weeks. Israel and Hamas are currently considering a ceasefire proposal to end the nearly 10-month war and free around 110 hostages still being held in Gaza. Tom Daley hinted the lure of a home LA Games could persuade him to compete in 2028 after he and partner Noah Williams celebrated silver medal success in the mens 10m platform event. The pair were joint-second with Canada in the opening rounds and a strong third dive saw them take a 4.8 point lead over the Canadian duo Rylan Wiens and Nathan Zsombor-Murray. Daley and Williams continued to maintain second place throughout the competition and finished with 463.44 points overall, 26.91 points behind gold medallists China, while Canada took bronze. The pair continued a successful spell in the pool for the Team GB diving squad after Scarlett Mew Jensen and Yasmin Harper took bronze on Saturday in the womens 3m synchronised springboard event. Daley is now a five-time Olympic medallist having competed at five Games since making his bow at Beijing 2008, but did not reveal if he would compete at the next edition in Los Angeles, which is where he currently lives. He said: I dont know yet because I went from being the youngest on the team in 2008 to now oldest diver on the team. I want to enjoy this moment and make decisions about the future of diving, for me, later on. Daley has hinted he might return in LA in 2028 (Mike Egerton/PA) I live in LA now so it could be a chance to have a second home Games, but for now I just want to enjoy this moment and see how things pan out. After ending his long wait for Olympic gold in the 10m synchronised event in Tokyo 2020, Daley was back defending his title on Monday after being convinced by his son, Robbie, to return to the sport. He returned to training last year with the aim of reaching Paris and was watched by his husband, American screenwriter Dustin Lance Black Daley and their two children. Im so proud to have been able to decide to come back, Daley said. Fifteen months ago I was sitting on the sofa doing nothing and today, being able to get back into some kind of competition shape, its something I feel very proud to have been able to do. Team GB finished second behind China, with Canada taking bronze (Mike Egerton/PA) I think most of that is being able to set an example to my kids that if you have a dream and work really hard, it doesnt mean youre always going to be able to achieve exactly what you want to. For me this year it was having that sense of perspective being able to balance being with my family and being able to train. Nothing could separate Great Britain and Canada in the first two rounds, with both teams tied on 105.00, but Daley and Williams edged ahead on the third dive. They extended the gap with a high score of 93.96 in the following round with a back three-and-a-half somersault. Daley and Williams were consistent throughout the event (Mike Egerton/PA) Daley and Williams secured their silver in the final round, scoring 93.24 on their hardest dive of the competition, a forward four-and-a-half somersault. Silver completes the collection for Daley, who has three bronzes and one gold, and is a first Olympic medal for Williams, who felt his own performance improved at the event. I really enjoyed the competition today, Williams added. Tom dove amazingly, I think the fact he dove like that and China were good as well just helped me elevate how I normally dive to how I did today. Laura Collett collected a bronze medal on London 52 in the individual eventing competition at the Paris Olympics. After securing team gold earlier in the day, Collett went into the individual jumping round in third, with fellow Brit Tom McEwen 2.7 penalties behind in fourth. Both jumped clear, but with German Michael Jung and Australian Christopher Burton also enjoying perfect rounds to take first and second respectively, Collett had to be content with third. Great Britains Laura Collett jumps a fence aboard London 52 en route to eventing individual bronze at the Paris Olympics (David Davies/PA). Collett told the BBC: I thought (gold in) Tokyo was special but this is incomparable. It has blown that out the water. Going out in front of a crowd like this and feeling like every single person is willing you on. It felt like Dan felt that too. He tried so hard, I am just the lucky one that gets to steer him. I owe absolutely everything to that horse. This is just a day I will never, ever forget. Collett had led after the first day of competition, having scored an Olympic record of 17.5 in the dressage phase. However, a time penalty of 0.80 for the cross-country handed the initiative to Jung ahead of the final showjumping rounds. Collett had one fence down and a time penalty of 0.80 in the first team round, dropping her to her final position of third with a score of 23.10. Laura Collett is planning to party in Paris after adding an individual Olympic bronze medal to her earlier team gold in eventing. Collett, Tom McEwen and Ros Canter registered a comfortable victory in the team division, with the first two riders in the hunt for medals in the second round of jumping at the Chateau de Versailles. Just 2.7 penalties separated Collett in third and McEwen in fourth, with German Michael Jung and Australian Christopher Burton filling the top two spots. All four jumped clear rounds meaning the places remained unaltered but Collett could not have been more thrilled with her bronze after missing out on an individual medal in Tokyo, when the British team took gold and McEwen was a silver medallist. Great Britains Laura Collett aboard London 52 during the eventing individual jumping final (David Davies/PA). She said: I never thought this day would actually come. I was very lucky when I did ponies, juniors and young riders, each year I went and won a team and individual medal but then I went into seniors and realised it was an awful lot more difficult. Things havent gone to plan for really any of my senior appearances. In Tokyo I really thought I could and should have won an individual medal but things didnt go to plan and I luckily learnt from my mistakes. We had a very strict plan coming here that we werent going to make the same mistakes as in Tokyo and the plan paid off and Im just so lucky to have been given a second chance. Not many people get to go to one Olympic games and try to win a medal, I was lucky enough to go to two, so Im relieved I managed to pull it off. Jung finished the competition on 21.80 penalties to win the gold, with Burton on 22.40 and Collett on a final mark of 23.10. Great Britains Laura Collett aboard London 52 celebrates winning an individual eventing bronze medal (David Davies/PA). The German was winning a record third individual title after triumphing at London 2012 and in Rio in 2016 and Collett paid tribute to the riders achievements. She added: I personally think the best man won hes an absolute genius who has made every one of us ride so much better and improve our horses and riding. We still havent learnt how to beat him, but maybe one day we will. When asked how she planned to mark her Olympic medal double, Collett replied: My friends and family are here, so were definitely planning to have a very big party and many parties when we get home as well, because these things dont happen every day and I plan on celebrating. Burton also had his own thoughts on how the medallists might celebrate, adding: I think the Germans have Jagermeister, the Australians have beer and the British have a cup of tea! Pearland ISD's partnership with the YMCA's after-school program has helped various elementary campuses within the district receive funding to enhance their indoor and outdoor playground facilities. Pearland Independent School District Teachers grants, a vending machine to promote reading, a new counseling center and tye-dye shirts will highlight the 2024-2025 school year at Pearland ISD. Here is whats new this fall at Pearland ISD: New fall break Students go back to school Aug. 12, and for the first time this year will get a break before Thanksgiving, with no school on Oct. 16 to 18. With the weekend Oct. 19 and 20, this gives students five days off in a row that month. Advertisement Article continues below this ad New playground equipment The district partnered with the Vic Coppinger Family YMCA and YMCA of Greater Houston to fund enhancements to indoor and outdoor playground facilities at several elementary school campuses by adding new equipment. DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS: 51 Texas school districts' dress codes found in violation of state anti-discrimination act Teaching grants and projects With more than $120,000 in grants donated by The Pearland ISD Education Foundation, the district will the 2024-25 school year across Pearland ISD. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These Innovative Teaching grants promote projects that support advanced learning in the classroom, according to the district. Each grant recipient can use the grant funding to implement these projects. The following projects were made possible by these grants. BAY AREA INSIDER: Must-read local news from League City, Clear Lake and other Bay Area communities Book Vending Machine: At Silvercrest Elementary, a book vending machine will promote literacy, and engage students in positive decision-making behavior. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mindful Oasis: Pearland Junior High East will have access to a calming space to assist with socio-emotional needs at this counseling center. The center will focus on helping junior high school students manage their emotions, reduce stress and enhance their academic performance, according to the district. Migrant says this is for Rishi Sunak as dinghy leaves France to cross Channel Migrant crossings hit another record high as those embarking on journeys from France to the UK shouted this is for Rishi Sunak. A migrant was heard making the declaration on Monday morning while sailing an inflatable boat down a riverway before it picked up more people from a beach near Calais and travelled onwards across the English Channel. Footage captured by the PA news agency just a day after another migrant died while attempting the journey to the UK showed a group travelling on a black dinghy before reaching the sea, where dozens of migrants waded into the water at Gravelines and pulled themselves onto the crowded boat. It comes as the latest figures show there had been a record number of crossings for the first seven months of a calendar year. According to the Home Office, 255 migrants made the journey on Sunday, taking the provisional total for the year so far to 16,457. The previous record for arrivals in the seven months from January to July was 16,420 in 2022, with 14,732 making the journey in the same period last year. (PA Graphics) Men, women and young children, some wearing life jackets, could be seen appearing from sand dunes and walking across the beach. Some youngsters were carried on shoulders, but families turned back from the sea as others walked out into the water to be picked up by the inflatable boat. Police patrolled the beach and appeared to approach families before they turned away. Volunteers from refugee charity Utopia 56 were also at the scene and told PA they deal with emergencies, check the boats at sea are not in trouble, distribute clothes and monitor how police engage with migrants on the beaches. Volunteer Pablo Eymard-Picollec said of the families who turned back: I think a few police officers talked to them and told them to stay on the beach. As you can see on the boat, it was really, really crowded, so I think they assumed it was too risky for them to go, but we have to speak with them to know for sure the reason they didnt go today. Volunteers have said that crossings have become more dangerous now as police have militarised the border (Gareth Fuller/PA) At the weekend the French coast guard rescued 34 migrants, while one person died, after a heavily loaded boat got into difficulty overnight on Saturday into Sunday. Another Utopia 56 volunteer, who asked not to be named, said they believe it is more dangerous now as the police have militarised the border. More and more people are coming in one boat because there is less chance for them to try, they said. So there are more people now in one boat than before, there is more risk and things like yesterday. The charity patrol group said they saw four boats leaving the French coastline on Monday morning. In the Commons, Reform UKs Ashfield MP Lee Anderson accused France of being complicit in migrant Channel crossings in light of the latest activity, asking Yvette Cooper: Does the Home Secretary agree with me its time now to stop paying the French any more money until they stop being complicit in this evil trade? Ms Cooper said the crossings were extremely dangerous as she mentioned the latest death, adding: Criminal gangs are deliberately cramming boats to maximise their profits, and they have been getting away with it for far too long. That is why we need a new border security command in place, but it is also why we need to work not simply with the French police but also with police forces and organisations right across Europe, and beyond, in order to pursue the gangs and to prevent the boats reaching the French coast in the first place, she said. Last year, 29,437 migrants made the journey to the UK, down 36% on a record 45,774 arrivals in 2022. Monthly data comes from the most recent Home Office quarterly update on irregular migration to the UK, which presents the final and authoritative statistics on small boat arrivals. Plans for a retail share sale in banking giant NatWest will be scrapped as they are a bad use of taxpayer money, the new Chancellor has announced. Rachel Reeves revealed that the new Labour Government has ditched the Tory aims to launch a Tell Sid-style share sale of its remaining 20% stake in the lender. The former Government had been planning to launch a share sale in NatWest to retail investors this summer, before it was put on hold due to the surprise July 4 General Election announcement. Ms Reeves told the House of Commons: We intend to fully exit our shareholding by 2025-26. But having considered advice, I have concluded that a retail share sale offer would involve significant discounts that could cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds. It would therefore not represent value for money. She added: It will not go ahead. Its a bad use of taxpayer money and we will not do it. The bank formerly known as Royal Bank of Scotland was at one stage 84% owned by the State after a mammoth 46 billion bailout at the height of the financial crisis. The Treasury has been selling down its stake in the lender, which also owns Coutts, as part of aims to return it fully to private hands. NatWest has seen the taxpayer stake in the group drop to below 20% in recent weeks, down from about 38% in December, as the Government has continued to sell down its shareholding. The former Tory government had announced plans to sell some of the stake to retail investors, in a similar share offering to the 1986 British Gas Tell Sid campaign to promote the sale of stock to the public after it was privatised. It has been reported recently that Labour will instead look to offload shares in NatWest to large, institutional investors, as part of its goal to see the bank fully return to private hands by 2025-26. NatWest last week revealed it spent 24 million on the scrapped plans after it was forced to pay for advertising and preparations for the share sale. It is understood that some of the 24 million forked out by NatWest for marketing costs of the retail share plan can be re-used for general advertising uses, although the bill also covers legal fees and expenses. A NatWest Group spokesman said: We welcome the Chancellors commitment to returning NatWest Group to full private ownership. This is a shared ambition that we believe is in the best interests of both the bank and all our shareholders. In the winter of 2022-23, around 11.4 million older people received a winter fuel allowance. Photograph: Jacob King/PA Up to 2 million financially struggling older people could lose annual payments worth hundreds of pounds under government plans to restrict the winter fuel allowance to the poorest pensioners, campaigners have warned. Rachel Reeves announced the plans in a speech on Monday outlining a series of spending cuts to help fill what the government says is a 22bn black hole in the public finances. Charities criticised the changes, which could save 1.5bn, warning people who fail to claim the main qualifying benefit, pension credit, could face heat or eat dilemmas this winter because they will lose eligibility for payments worth up to 300 a year. Related: What are Rachel Reeves spending cuts and how do the sums add up? The chancellor also scrapped long-delayed plans drawn up by previous Conservative administrations designed to protect individuals from having to sell their homes to meet large social care bills, saving 1bn a year by 2026. Potentially millions of affluent pensioners will lose winter fuel payments of between 100 and 300 for each person, designed to help people aged 67 or over pay heating bills in the coldest months of the years. In the winter of 2022-23, some 11.4 million people received them, alongside extra one off cost of living payments of up to 300. Caroline Abrahams, the charity director at Age UK, said: Our initial estimate is that as many as 2 million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it and will be in trouble as a result yet at the other end of the spectrum well-off older people will scarcely notice the difference a social injustice. She added: Means-testing winter fuel payments this winter, with virtually no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy decision, and one that will potentially jeopardise their health as well as their finances the last thing they or the NHS needs. Age UK estimates 800,000 older people on very low incomes under 218.25 a week for single pensioners and under 332.95 for couples are eligible for but do not claim pension credit, which will be the main qualifying benefit for the winter fuel payments under the plans, and could lose out. The decision to means test winter fuel payments a universal benefit available to all state pensioners since 1997 came as a surprise, with previous cost-cutting governments tending to shy away from a cut that might alienate older voters. The Treasury said the payments will now be targeted at households over state pension age in England and Wales who are in receipt of pension credit and universal credit. Those eligible will receive 200, or 300 for those aged over 80. Winter fuel payments are devolved in Scotland and Northern Ireland. This will better target support for heating costs at those who need it, while all pensioners will benefit from the governments commitment to maintain the triple lock for the basic and new state pension in this parliament, a Treasury document outlining the chancellors plans said. The government said it had decided to abandon the long-delayed social care charging reforms known as the social care cap because the Conservatives had failed to put aside money to pay for them. It said the cap would be impossible to deliver in full under previously announced timeframes. The cap was adopted by the then prime minister Boris Johnson in 2021 to meet a 2019 manifesto promise that pensioners would not have to sell homes to fund care costs in old age. It raised the amount of assets a person can have before getting state funding for social care from 23,250 to 100,000 and capped lifetime care costs at 86,000. A year later the Conservatives delayed the introduction of the cap until October 2025 amid funding concerns. These concerns have not been resolved, and last week local authorities warned pushing ahead with the cap without additional investment would push some councils into bankruptcy. Martin Tett, the adult social care spokesperson for the County Councils Network, said failing to take forward the reforms in the current parliament will be frustrating to campaigners. But pushing ahead without proper funding would have catastrophic consequences for council finances and individuals who receive social care. Thea Stein, the chief executive of the Nuffield Trust, said: While the specific reforms scrapped today were only a partial solution, they were at least something and the danger now is that social care remains in the long grass we urgently need to move social care reform from being tomorrows aspiration to being todays priority. Prime minister Anthony Albanese says Barnaby Joyce should be sacked from shadow cabinet after the National party MP likened ballot papers to bullets during a protest against wind turbines. Speaking to an anti-renewables rally at Lake Illawarra south of Sydney on Sunday, Joyce compared ballot papers to bullets and urged the crowd to load that magazine at the voting booth against the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, and the energy minister, Chris Bowen. And the bullet you have is that little piece of paper and it goes in their magazine called the voting box and its coming up, he said in footage of the rally shown on the Seven network. Get ready to load that magazine. Goodbye, Chris. Goodbye, Albo. Joyce, the shadow minister for veterans affairs, apologised on Monday morning, but Albanese said the comments were beyond the pale and needed action from Coalition leader Peter Dutton. Peter Dutton has had four [shadow ministry] reshuffles he should have a fifth and Barnaby Joyce should go, Albanese said in an interview with Sky News. This is the sort of language which has no place in any part of Australian society, let alone in public life. And here you have a guy going to a rally calling for action, using analogies of guns, bullets, magazines, and goodbye to three members of the government. What does this bloke have to do to lose his job? Bowen said he had not received a personal apology or explanation from Joyce and believed that Joyces resignation from the shadow ministry would be the appropriate course of action. The fact that Mr Joyce thought that such language could be acceptable in any circumstances reflects on his judgement and his character, Bowen said. In an era of violence and tension, it is incumbent on all political leaders to keep their language within civil and non violent norms. Joyce was asked about the comments during his regular appearance on the Seven network breakfast show, Sunrise, on Monday. At first the former Nationals leader defended his use of the metaphor. Related: Extravagant maker of schemes: unpicking Barnaby Joyces anti-renewables campaign | Gabrielle Chan The ballot paper is the weapon you have it shouldnt be a bullet, it should be a ballot paper and the ballot box, he said on Monday morning, before continuing to criticise wind turbines. It is like saying the fertilising capacity and the beauty of dog turd on your lawn in the middle of the morning works as well. [Its] absolutely disgusting. Nobody wants them. Pressed on the use of the word bullet in the wake of the assassination attempt of former US president Donald Trump, Joyce again fell back on the metaphor. I said ballot paper and ballot box. Thats what people should be using People dont like these wind turds out in the ocean or all over the environment. It was only after his sparring guest on the show, Labor MP Bill Shorten, told him that the smartest call here would be just to apologise for using that metaphor because weve had the Donald Trump assassination that Joyce did. Here we go. I apologise for using that metaphor, he said. The deputy Liberal leader, Sussan Ley, rebuked her Coalition colleague in a separate interview, saying it was not language I would have used, but said she wouldnt go as far as condemning it. Barnaby, as we know, does use colourful language, but I havent seen the comments in the entire context, she said. But when it comes to promoting social cohesion, everyone in their language and their words should be lifting the debate to what brings people together, not what pushes people apart, and I think all of us do that. So, by focusing and trying to interrogate individual comments at different times, I dont think thats particularly helpful. Health minister Mark Butler said the Coalition should be holding Joyce to account. I have to say that at a time when the head of the federal police has testified before this parliament about a sharp rise in explicit threats against members of parliament, and within just a fortnight of the assassination attempt against former President Trump, it is simply extraordinary that a senior frontbencher would use such explicit, violent language about the prime minister of this country and other senior political leaders, he said. In 2018 Joyce provided a victim impact statement to the Armidale local court after a 74-year-old man pleaded guilty to charges of stalking and intimidation against Joyce, which included sending a bullet and threatening note to his electoral office. In reports from the court proceedings of the time, Joyces statement said the bullet and note made him feel nervous and he thought the actions set a bad precedent for others in public life. It is not the first time an Australian politician apologised over mixing gun violence with voting in an election. In 2016, independent MP Bob Katter released an election campaign ad depicting himself shooting dead Liberal and Labor party members, which was released just days after the Orlando Pulse nightclub massacre in the US. Joe Biden delivered remarks to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act - Reuters Joe Biden has proposed sweeping reforms to the US Supreme Court accusing it of making dangerous and extreme decisions and losing the publics trust. The US president, who has been a frequent critic of the conservative-leaning courts recent judgments, said its members should be subject to 18-year term limits and a binding code of conduct. Speaking at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas, in a speech to mark the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, enacted under President Lyndon Johnson, Mr Biden said the public had lost trust in the court and reform was overdue. Undisclosed gifts to justices worth hundreds of thousands of dollars from wealthy benefactors who have interests before the very court were adding to this lack of trust, he said Additionally, a series of extreme decisions - including the scrapping of Roe and the banning of affirmative action - had been used to weaponise an extreme and unchecked agenda. He said the court had also agreed to Donald Trumps request for widespread immunity. The court made a ruling for one former president. No other president in history has asked for this kind of immunity for criminal actions, he said. And no president, no former president, not me, not one, should have been given any exception to this. Mr Biden, 81, said he was calling for three changes - 18-year term limits, a required code of conduct and a no-one is above the law amendment. The constitutional amendment would reverse a July 1 ruling in which the court ruled that Donald Trump and other former presidents have partial immunity from criminal prosecution for official actions during their time in the White House. Polls show there has been a dip in trust for Americas top court. However, how successful Mr Biden will be in effecting change depends to be seen. Any lasting alterations would require an Act of Congress and the House of Representatives is controlled by the Republicans. On Monday, House Speaker Mike Johnson said any proposal tabled by Mr Biden would be dead on arrival. In his speech, Mr Biden said of Mr Johnsons words: I think his thinking is dead on arrival. Earlier, writing in The Washington Post, Mr Biden claimed the court was mired in a crisis of ethics and needed drastic reform to restore trust and accountability. What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the publics confidence in the courts decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms, he said. We now stand in a breach. Trump immunity Earlier this month, the court split along partisan lines when it ruled that Trump could not be prosecuted for exercising his constitutional powers while in office, and had the presumption of immunity for his official acts. Arguing that the decision turned presidents into kings and dictators, Mr Biden called for a constitutional amendment to make clear that there is no immunity for crimes a former president committed while in office. I share our founders belief that the presidents power is limited, not absolute, he added. It marks Mr Bidens first major intervention since he dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed Kamala Harris just over a week ago. Analysts said the presidents proposals were largely aspirational. Term-limits and a code of conduct would need Congressional approval, and are unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled House. A constitutional amendment would need two-thirds support in both the House and the Senate, or an even more far-fetched passage on state-level. The president, a former chairman of the Senates judiciary committee, accused the court of making dangerous and extreme decisions that overturn settled legal precedents such as ending the federal right to an abortion. Six of the nine Supreme Court judges were appointed by Republican presidents. Three of them were put in place by Trump, while Mr Biden has appointed only one. Members are not constrained by term or age limits, meaning their appointment is one of the most consequential decisions that a US president can make. Mr Biden proposed that justices would spend a maximum of 18 years on the bench, with presidents appointing a new justice every two years. The United States is the only major constitutional democracy that gives lifetime seats to its High Court, he wrote. Term limits would help ensure that the courts membership changes with some regularity. That would make timing for court nominations more predictable and less arbitrary. It would reduce the chance that any single presidency radically alters the make-up of the court for generations to come. Code of conduct Mr Biden also proposed a code of conduct following a series of controversies that he said had undermined public trust in the court. Scandals involving several justices have caused the public to question the courts fairness and independence, which are essential to faithfully carrying out its mission of equal justice under the law, he said. Justices should be required to disclose gifts, refrain from public political activity and recuse themselves from cases in which they or their spouses have financial or other conflicts of interest. Clarence Thomas, a conservative justice and one of its oldest and longest-serving members, has been the subject of controversy after failing to disclose a series of trips provided by a Republican billionaire donor. Samuel Alito, another long-serving and conservative justice, came under scrutiny this year amid reports that flags associated with supporters of Donald Trump had been flown at two of his homes. Thousands of constitutional amendments have been proposed, but only 27 approved in the history of the US. Blower cartoon There is a black hole in the public finances. The Tories have left a far worse mess than the new Government had initially realised. And some spending will have to be cut (and later in the year, perhaps rather more taxes will have to go up) in order to balance the books. We were introduced to straight-talking Rachel, the woman who will finally level with the public about what it will take to fix Britain, revive the economy, and plug the holes in the services the state is meant to provide. It is easy perhaps too easy to criticise the new Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, for shameless dishonesty. She might claim that it is only now that she has had a chance to properly examine the books, to look at all the unfunded spending commitments, and to assess where the tax revenues will come from, that she is able to conclude that everything is far worse than she realised. But the Office for Budget Responsibility was already meant to have laid out all the financial pressures on the government, and she promised during the election campaign that she had enough information to rule out any major tax increases. There ought to have been nothing in the books that should have come as a surprise, and especially not for someone like Reeves, who is constantly boasting of her financial expertise. In fairness, however, she is at least being slightly more straightforward than the outgoing Conservative administration ever was. Some budgets might well have been overspent. It is also past time that someone made it plain to voters what a mess the country is in. Britain has grown used to being told that it can have both lower taxes and higher public spending, without any consequences. Ministers have become accustomed to pretending that the national debt will start falling at some point in the future thanks to spending cuts that nobody really believed would be possible. It would, to put it politely, have been preferable, of course, if such straight talking had been done before the votes were cast instead of three weeks afterwards. But we are where we are. The real problem is this. While claiming to be honest, Reeves is in fact perpetuating two far bigger lies. The first is the idea that we can fix both the British economy and make the public finances sustainable with nothing more than a few relatively minor tweaks to spending and taxation. Seriously? The government currently spends about 1.2 trillion, or 17,000 per person every single year, an all-time record. Against that huge total, 22 billion a year is nothing more than a rounding error. If we are to stick with the physics metaphors, it is more of a quark, the smallest particle that we know of, than a black hole. Whether it is plugged or not will not make much difference to anything. The second big lie is that the British welfare state is even remotely sustainable without major reforms. We already owe close to 100 per cent of GDP in debt, and the total has tripled over the past 20 years. We are still running a deficit of more than 3 per cent of GDP even though the economy is growing again, and taxes have already been raised to a 70-year high. The Treasury takes about 37 per cent of everything we produce as a nation, again close to an all-time high. We have vast unfunded liabilities on the public balance sheet that no one wants to talk about, such as the 2.6 trillion in public sector pensions, or the 250 billion in outstanding student loans that may well never be repaid. The list goes on and on. To sum it up simply, were broke. If Reeves were really being honest about the situation she has inherited, she wouldnt be talking about black holes. She would be candidly explaining that almost everything the country has been told about public services, about the entitlements people currently look forward to, and about the countrys ability to afford all of them has been a deception. She wouldnt just be cutting winter fuel payments for some pensioners. She would be admitting that we need to raise the state pension age to 70, and get rid of the triple lock. She would be telling the younger generation that they will probably never get a taxpayer-funded pension of anything like the generosity of that enjoyed by their parents and grandparents, and that we will have to make what remains contributory, just as it is for private pensions. She would be planning to halve the number of students offered state-backed loans. She would be working with Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, to introduce modest, means-tested charges into the NHS, while moving gradually to a French or German-style social insurance system. Unless she is willing to make all that clear, Reeves is simply conspiring in a far bigger cover-up than the one she accuses the Tories of. And the only reason she doesnt is because the person she is really lying to, along with the rest of a deluded political class, is perhaps herself. A businessman tried to disarm the Southport knifeman after hearing screams from his office, The Telegraph can reveal. Jonathan Hayes, 63, was stabbed in the leg after running into the dance studio in a desperate attempt to intervene. His wife Helen, 57, told The Telegraph that he regrets he couldnt do more to stop the ferocious attack that left two children dead. Asked if Mr Hayes had tried to put himself between the knifeman and the children, she said: He did. He heard screams. Our office is in the same building as the dance studio, he heard screams and went outside, saw the attacker, saw that he had hurt a child and tried to take the knife off him and got stabbed in the leg. The dance studio is tucked away down a little alley, you wouldnt know that there was a childrens dance studio there just by walking past you would have to have known it was there. Ive been with him all afternoon at the hospital. Hes very upset that he wasnt able to be more help. Physically he will be OK, mentally I dont know. The attack began just before midday in Southport, Merseyside, as the children, some as young as six, were enjoying a workshop at the beginning of the school holidays. Six of the wounded children remained in a critical condition on Monday night and were being treated at hospitals across the North West. Forensic officers on nearby Hart Street, in Southport, after the knife attack - James Speakman/PA Two adults were present at the dance and yoga class and tried to intervene. They were also being treated for stab wounds and were said to be in critical condition. Merseyside Police confirmed that a 17 year-old boy, from the village of Banks, about five miles away from Southport, had been arrested and was being questioned on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. The youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons and is originally from Cardiff, in Wales, moved to the Southport area with his Rwandan parents when he was aged six. In a press conference, Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, of Merseyside Police, said that while the incident was not being treated as terror-related, colleagues from counter-terror policing had offered to assist with the investigation. Police detained a 17-year-old after the attack - James Speakman/PA She said that her officers arrived to find children subjected to a ferocious attack, adding: We believe the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked. The Taylor Swift-themed workshop had been organised by Leanne Lucas, a local teacher, and was intended to coincide with the start of the school holidays. About 25 children, aged between six and 11, signed up for the event, which was due to last two hours from 10am until midday. Witnesses described how just after 11.45am, the attacker allegedly pulled up at the dance studio, which is situated in a small business centre behind a residential street, in a taxi and then got out without paying. One witness claimed he had a black hooded top pulled up and was wearing a Covid-style face mask. He walked into the studio through the front door, which was unlocked for fire safety reasons. It was here that Mr Hayes, who will have surgery on Tuesday, is said to have confronted the attacker, desperately trying to disarm him before being stabbed himself. I understand from the news reports that he was arrested at the scene. John wouldnt know about that because by that time he had collapsed and didnt see what happened, Mrs Hayes told The Telegraph. I understand the attacker entered the building and went up the stairs and on the left-hand side at the top of the stairs is the dance studio. On the right-hand side is our office. It was on the landing. Its quite small. Two children died at the scene and six were being treated in hospital - James Speakman/PA He didnt know but he just said it was a big knife, it made quite a big wound. Not a penknife certainly. Why you target little girls, I dont know. She added: Hes OK, hes having surgery tomorrow. He will recover, we hope. People living close by described hearing shrieks and screams before blood-soaked children began running from the building. Parents, hysterical with panic, dashed to the scene desperate to find their children. One witness said she had seen a mother at the scene, adding: She was screaming, My daughters been stabbed. The woman was in hysterics. Colin Parry, owner of nearby Masters Ltd Vehicle Body Repairs, on Hart Street, called the police and said mothers were screaming as they arrived at the scene. He said: It is like a scene from a horror movie. Mr Parry added: Its like something from America, not like sunny Southport. Within minutes, a massive emergency response was under way, with dozens of ambulances, police cars, fire engines and helicopters arriving at the scene. North West Ambulance Service said victims were taken to Alder Hey Childrens Hospital, Aintree University Hospital and Southport and Formby District General Hospital. Alder Hey declared a major incident and asked parents not to bring their children to the emergency department unless it was urgent. Roger Hallam (centre) was one of five Just Stop Oil activists given a lengthy prison sentence for recruiting volunteers to campaign of non-violent protest. Photograph: Leon Neal/Getty Images Environmental groups are among 92 civil society organisations who have warned Yvette Cooper against the steady erosion of the right to protest in the UK, and called on her to reverse the previous governments crackdown on peaceful protest. The right to protest is a vital safety valve for our democracy and an engine of social progress, the letter, delivered on Friday, said. The achievements of peaceful protest are written on the labour movements own birth certificate. [We] urge this government to intervene to reverse the crackdown on peaceful protest set in motion under the last government, the letter continues. The responsibility for it lies firmly with the previous administration but the current government now faces a clear choice between allowing its dire consequences to play out under its watch, or do something to prevent it. Related: Not acceptable in a democracy: UN expert condemns lengthy Just Stop Oil sentences Signatories include Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, Wildlife and Countryside Link and a host of other environmental campaigning organisations, alongside Amnesty International UK, Liberty and dozens of human rights, free speech and social justice groups. The letter has been prompted in part by the jailing of five Just Stop Oil activists for a total of 21 years after they appeared on a Zoom call recruiting volunteers for non-violent disruptive protests that blocked the M25 over four days in 2022. But it also notes that the stiff sentences are not an isolated incident. Anti-protest legislation passed in 2022 and 2023, and successful efforts by attorneys general to remove legal defences in protest cases, constituted a deliberate strategy by previous governments to criminalise and shrink the space for peaceful protest, the letter said. The groups call on Cooper to join them in roundtable discussions to hear directly from a selection of key groups across civil society about these issues. We cant afford to become a country that routinely sends peaceful protesters to jail for years, said Areeba Hamid, the co-executive director of Greenpeace UK. Protest can be annoying and inconvenient, but its annoying and inconvenient protest that has led to the end of slavery, votes for women, basic workers rights and the bans on nuclear testing and commercial whaling. A Home Office spokesperson said: We recognise the democratic right that people must be free to peacefully express their views, but they should do so within the bounds of the law. Protest organisers should engage fully with the police. The letter has been received and we will respond in due course. Grassroots members will elect their next leader in early November. Composite: Guardian Design/Getty Images/PA/ZUMA Press Wire/REX/Shutterstock/AFP/Alamy The full list of Conservative leadership candidates has been published after Monday afternoons deadline passed. Six MPs will be running in the three-month-long contest to succeed Rishi Sunak. Four will be shortlisted by MPs in September and given the chance to make their pitch at the Conservative party conference and in the weeks leading up to it. MPs will then narrow down the list to two candidates, and grassroots members will elect their next leader in early November. Suella Braverman, who has long been angling for the leadership, announced this weekend that she would not be standing because the majority of Tory MPs did not share her views though she claimed she had the 10 backers needed to make it on to the ballot paper. The Guardian takes a look at the six runners and riders who have unveiled their bids. Tom Tugendhat A Tory centrist, Tugendhat was made security minister in Rishi Sunaks government after a strong run for the Conservative party leadership in the summer of 2022. His pitch then was that he was untainted by the Johnson governments chaotic administration. A former reserve officer who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, Tugendhat became an MP in 2015 and built up a profile on foreign policy issues. He was chair of the foreign affairs select committee between 2017 and 2022 and has been notably hawkish on China. When launching his leadership pitch, Tugendhat suggested he was open to pulling the UK out of the European convention on human rights, which was dismissed by some as an attempt to pitch for rightwing votes. He voted to remain in the EU in 2016. Odds: Ladbrokes 5-1. William Hill 4-1. Mel Stride A staunch Sunak loyalist, Strides frequent media appearances made him the face of the Conservative campaign in the run-up to the election disaster. By the end of it he was warning that Labour was on track for a huge victory and on election night he clung on to his Central Devon seat by just 61 votes. Now running for the Conservative leadership, Stride has put unity at the centre of his pitch and pointed to his experience in roles that involve bringing people together, including Treasury select committee chair and Commons leader. He first became an MP in 2010 and backed remain in 2016. Odds: Ladbrokes 28-1, William Hill 20-1. James Cleverly The first candidate to come out of the blocks, Cleverly has pointed to his extensive experience as a senior minister. He has served as home secretary and foreign secretary in the Sunak and Truss governments, and was education secretary and Conservative chair under Boris Johnson. He first became an MP in 2015. Under successive prime ministers Cleverly was often trusted with taking the governments message to the airwaves. He is pitching himself as a centrist with broad appeal, though he has taken a swipe at the right of his party by warning against sacrificing pragmatic government in the national interest on the altar of ideological purity. He backed Brexit in 2016. Odds: Ladbrokes, 6-1, William Hill 9-2. Kemi Badenoch Badenochs well-established campaign operation and popularity with grassroots members have made her the favourite in this contest. This is her second tilt at the leadership; she came fourth in the race to succeed Johnson in the summer of 2022. In government, where she served as business secretary and minister for women and equalities, she has made a name for herself on gender and culture war issues, including by calling for a change to the Equality Act so that sex is defined only as someones biological sex. She has also become known for her combative style. Launching her campaign on Sunday night, Badenoch argued that calls for party unity were not enough and that the Conservatives incoherent set of policies were to blame for their election defeat. She pledged to rebuild the party by 2030 and respond to Reform UKs threat from the right. She backed Brexit in 2016 and was first elected in 2017. Odds: Ladbrokes 7-4, William Hill 15-8. Robert Jenrick Once billed as a run-of-the-mill centrist Conservative MP so much so that he was nicknamed Robert Generic he has transformed into the darling of the Tory right, supplanting Braverman and mopping up many of her supporters. That transformation is especially remarkable given Jenrick was said to have been installed by Sunak as a minister in the Home Office to keep an eye on Braverman. He soon gave up this unofficial role and began deploying increasingly hardline rhetoric as immigration minister until he quit last December, calling on Sunak to take a tougher line. Jenrick is now expected to put immigration at the heart of his campaign. He backed remain in 2016. Odds: Ladbrokes 5-2, William Hill 11-4. Priti Patel Arguably the most rightwing candidate in the race, Patel has vowed to give grassroots members a greater say in how their party is run. Part of her pitch is that she has served in government under three prime ministers but is not associated with the Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak governments. First elected as an MP in 2010, Patel was international development secretary under Theresa May and home secretary under Johnson. She was sacked by May over unauthorised meetings with Israeli ministers while on a trip to the country. She weathered bullying allegations in the Home Office where a Cabinet Office inquiry found she had unintentionally breached the ministerial code in her behaviour towards civil servants and quit when Johnson left Downing Street. As home secretary Patel launched a points-based immigration system, signed the agreement with Rwanda to process UK asylum seekers there, and agreed returns deals with Albania and Serbia. She backed Brexit in 2016 and was a prominent figure in Vote Leave. Odds: Ladbrokes and William Hill, 8-1. A white-clawed crayfish, resembling a little brown lobster, from the Rover Culm. Photograph: Charlie Elder The river unwinds beneath overhanging trees, its broad back gently massaged by submerged knuckles of rock and trailing fingers of vegetation. Wading into the shallows, the conservationists James Maben and Charly Mead search amid tangles of tree roots and pull up short lengths of black plastic tubing bound together like oversized panpipes. They peer into the black cylinders, before emptying the silty contents into a bucket. So far this morning the riverbed traps along this stretch of the River Culm have drawn a blank. But this time we are in luck. There in the bucket, resembling a little brown lobster, is a crayfish. More importantly, a white-clawed crayfish and one that could help secure a future for this threatened freshwater species. Pincering it between finger and thumb, James lifts it up to reveal its muddy bronze colouring and the pale undersides of its claws. A signal crayfish would be far more feisty, he tells me. Signal crayfish an invasive species of American origin have had a devastating impact since arriving in the 1970s. Large and aggressive, they dominate river stretches and spread a disease that is deadly for Britains native white-clawed crayfish. Nature red in tooth and, quite literally, claw. In Devon, white-clawed crayfish could become extinct within a decade. The team I am accompanying are in a race against time. Led by the Wildwood Trust, the Saving Devons Native Crayfish project involves catching white-clawed crayfish to breed in captivity, before rearing their young for release at safe ark sites. But this well-camouflaged and largely nocturnal species is not easy to find. The plastic tube traps deployed under licence provide snug underwater hideyholes, and the hope is that one or two are lurking within them when lifted out. Fortunately, after the initial catch, other traps along a mile of river also prove fruitful. In all, half a dozen white-clawed crayfish are collected each individual boosting the breeding projects chances of success. This is my first encounter with these secretive and endearing creatures. Their precipitous decline within UK rivers has taken place out of sight, but fortunately not out of mind among those striving to ensure they have a future. 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 Conroe City Hall is seen in March. Conroe has updated requirements and duties for its city secretary after City Council agreed to fire former City Secretary Soco Gorjon last week. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Conroe has updated requirements and duties for its city secretary after City Council agreed to fire former City Secretary Soco Gorjon last week. The updated ordinance outlines specific certification requirements for the secretary and assistant secretary and required training for municipal elections. At its July 25 regular meeting, council unanimously approved the changes without discussion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Last week, the council voted 4-0 to fire Gorjon and deny any contractual payment. Mayor Duke Coon and Council Member Howard Wood recused themselves because of Gorjons pending $1 million lawsuit against the city. The suit names Wood and council members Marsha Porter and Harry Hardman and interim City Attorney Mike Garner. Although not named in the suit, Coon also recused himself from the vote due to potential conflict of interest. Before becoming mayor, Coon had filed a lawsuit against Gorjon over the ballot issue that was later dismissed. Gorjon had been on leave since April following the controversy with the citys May 4 election. Gorjon confirmed she notarized and accepted the ballot applications of former Mayor Pro Tem Curt Maddux and former Council Member Todd Yancey without them present. Gorjon refused to reject the applications, sparking numerous lawsuits, including the one filed by Coon, to compel her to remove Maddux and Yancey from the ballot. The 9th Court of Appeals in March denied a petition to reject the ballot applications. Yancey lost the May election to Coon and Maddux lost to Shana Arthur. SWARMING PESTS: Montgomery County starts aerial mosquito spraying to help with Hurricane Beryl recovery Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to the updated ordinance, the city secretary and assistant city secretary must successfully complete the Texas Municipal Clerks Association certification program within 36 months of appointment to the positions. The city secretary also must attend an election law seminar sponsored or presented by the clerks association prior to each municipal general election. We wanted to make sure everything was more comprehensive and a lot less room for personal interpretation, Hardman said of the updates. We want everything to be as prescriptive as possible so when the next city secretary is hired, he or she will know exactly what the expectations, rules and responsibilities are. Ukrainian soldiers of a VAMPIRE drone unit inside a bomb shelter in an area of Donetsk region, - Photo by Jose Colon/Anadolu via Getty Images/Anadolu Today, Ukraine strikes a Russian strategic supersonic bomber parked at an airfield in Russias Arctic, The Wagner Group suffer a humiliating defeat in Mali, we assess Russias Summer offensive and we tell the story of the city of Odesa during the full scale invasion. Listen to Ukraine: the Latest, The Telegraphs daily podcast, using the audio player at the top of this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app. War in Ukraine is reshaping our world. Every weekday The Telegraphs top journalists analyse the invasion from all angles - military, humanitarian, political, economic, historical - and tell you what you need to know to stay updated. With over 70 million listens, our Ukraine: The Latest podcast is your go-to source for all the latest analysis, live reaction and correspondents reporting on the ground. We have been broadcasting ever since the full-scale invasion began. Ukraine: The Latests regular contributors are: David Knowles David is Head of Audio Development at The Telegraph, where he has worked for over three years. He has reported from across Ukraine during the full-scale invasion. Dominic Nicholls Dom is Associate Editor (Defence) at The Telegraph, having joined in 2018. He previously served for 23 years in the British Army, in tank and helicopter units. He had operational deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland. Francis Dearnley Francis is Assistant Comment Editor at The Telegraph. Prior to working as a journalist, he was chief of staff to the Chair of the Prime Ministers Policy Board at the Houses of Parliament in London. He studied History at Cambridge University and on the podcast explores how the past shines a light on the latest diplomatic, political, and strategic developments. They are also regularly joined by Telegraph reporters and correspondents around the world, including Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent), James Kilner, (Foreign Correspondent and Editor of the Central Asia & the South Caucasus Bulletin), Sophia Yan (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Nataliya Vasilyeva (Middle East Correspondent), Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Colin Freeman (Foreign Correspondent), Danielle Sheridan (Defence Editor), and Tony Diver (US Editor). Mills: 'This empty nest business is another massive midlife change' - Heathcliff O'Malley Are you looking down the barrel of the empty nest? Are your beloved children off to university? Or else setting off on a life adventure, sending a two decade-long habit of intensive parenting down the drain? If so, its likely you are feeling discombobulated, sad, stuck with one foot in the past and one in the future. Simultaneously pleased for them, setting out on their big shiny new life, and proud to get them launched, but also wretched with grief and sorrow. Ive felt the grief of it twice. When my eldest went off to college I was ambushed by how much it hurt, and kept having to nip down to the loo and weep. Then last year my baby left and the nest really was empty. In the weeks before she went we did the ritual trip to Ikea for pots and pans, a massive 12-point charger (for the phone, the vape, the speaker, the Airpods, the computer, the fairy lights...); a new duvet, sheets, a bedspread and a kettle. The full gamut for setting her up in her new Accom. Just looking at the boxes made me teary. Eleanor Mills with her daughter Alice - Heathcliff O'Malley On the way back home, her dad and I wept for the whole M6 Toll. We were still sniffling as we hit the M25. The house felt awfully quiet. As the first few weeks without having her around passed, I realised we had come to the end of a massive life phase. Practically every day for 20 years we had been tending to our kids needs. And now the everyday-ness of that was over. It felt as huge a shift as becoming a parent in the first place. But as the months have gone by, the grief has eased. With both girls gone, time has expanded. The days seem endless, luxuriant. There is so much time for me; for us (me and my long-suffering husband of nearly 30 years); for hanging out with friends; for my work with my online community of midlife women. There is a lot more time to indulge all my passions: cold swimming, writing a book. But there is also a sense of having several extra arms that are free for other purposes: a little like when I was made redundant from a busy and hectic job and just didnt know what to do with all the hours I suddenly had in the day. Eleanor Mills found more time to spend with her husband after her children left home This empty nest business is another massive midlife change. It has been comforting to talk about it with friends. We share a secret grief. But each of us has confessed different guilty pleasures of having the nest to ourselves: of coming down in the morning and finding the kitchen still tidy, milk still in the fridge. The freedom of not being responsible for anyone is a relief. Friends further along the road talk of their irritation with their adult kids when they return; the difficulty of finding a new equilibrium. Their offspring reappear expecting the full parental service: laundry, a full fridge, supper on the table. They talk about how wonderful it is to have them back but also how strange it is, how disruptive. The old rules of parent and child no longer apply they are adults now, used to fending for themselves. But they are back in the family nest. So how do we navigate this? It is really important to re-contract when adult children return home, says Lucy Cavendish, psychotherapist and author of How to Have Extraordinary Relationships. We retain an innate desire to mother our children whatever our age, whether they want us to or not. Of course when they leave the nest we miss them. We grieve. But then we adjust. We get our lives back. Couples have a chance to reconnect. Or if we are on our own we get used to shopping for one again; it starts off being sad and then becomes liberating. Then when they move back or are home for the long vacation it can be a genuine shock. Cavendish says that it is important to expect friction when your adult children return to the nest and to establish a new family contract. This needs to be done from a place of love. Begin by saying: I love you, I care about you unconditionally. Then: But if were going to live together again now that you are used to being an independent adult, we need a new contract. She says she makes it clear that when it comes to her own children she is not going to shop, fill the fridge and feed them, or do laundry. I say I expect them to manage on their budget and to buy food my kids are 27, 21, 20 and 17. Ill do more for the youngest, of course, but she is a good cook and does most of that anyway. What Cavendish does do, however, is: Listen. I support them emotionally, and financially if I can, and I help with practical adult things like getting a passport or helping them fill in tax returns or with getting a job. But I dont do the domestic stuff. Also, I dont map their iPhones or ask them where they are going or when they will be back. I treat them like trustworthy adults. No more helicopter parenting. Its none of my business what they are up to. Such a new kind of contract isnt so easy for everyone. I love it when the kids come home, says Abigail, 54, who has always been a stay-at-home mum. It gives me a purpose again. But I find that after a few days they get annoyed with me. They can feel a bit smothered. Its a huge job creating another human being. It is hard to get the boundaries right. I want to do everything for them and then feel hurt when they dont want me to anymore. Or when they push me away. I feel like I am always in the wrong. Cavendish is sympathetic. Moving into this new phase of parenting it is difficult to get the balance right. You need to think about what kind of relationship you want with your adult children. This is an opportunity to reset and rethink. Rather than seeing friction as a disaster, that it means your family is unhappy or you have failed, accept that securely attached people manage difficulty. We dont all agree constantly. I find the patients who come to me who say they never argue are the ones with the real issues. In life, often siblings dont get along, or different members of the family vie for attention. Sometimes we dont like our children very much or they dont like us; we can all behave badly. That is OK. The important thing is to be able to have truthful conversations to be honest about how you feel and why. Try and model good behaviour and take the high ground. Set rules. But also own your flaws. Admit them: for instance I say, Yes I am socially anxious so I can overcompensate It is about having a more adult relationship, so say, yes, I am sorry I hurt you and I see how something I did made you feel and Ill try not to do it again. Dont try and fix your children. Just listen to them and reflect back what they have said. It is surprisingly powerful. 'As the months have gone by, the grief has eased' - Heathcliff O'Malley They say that our families are our greatest teachers. Its true that our kids can push us to the limits, particularly when they are flexing their wings into adulthood. Indeed, if they are to launch themselves into the world and become independent, they probably need to go through a time of feeling their parents are hugely annoying. That is a natural evolution. I love having my son home now he has finished university, says Thelma. But in practical terms it is just not working. He is mainly nocturnal and I have to get up at 7am for work. I drive him mad because I am always coming downstairs cross because he wakes me in the night by playing his music so he is going to move out. Thelma is lucky that she lives in Manchester where rents are cheaper than some other parts of the UK. Her son has found a flatshare for around 500 a month, which he can manage even on his temp job as a barman. Those of us with kids in the South East can only dream of such an outcome a room in a shared house in London, for example, can cost 800- 1000. It is much harder for young people to get established now than it was in our day, warns Cavendish. It is more difficult to find a job and housing is incredibly expensive, particularly in London. When I left university my mother firmly tipped the nest; I was told Id had the best education money could buy and it was time to make my own way in the world. At the time I resented this response, but having to stand on my own two feet, pay my own rent and be in the world meant I knuckled down to a drudgy job and started working my way up through my chosen profession. It was the making of me. These days however, it is a harder call. Its tough out there for our beloved young adults, so the nest emptying/tipping/shrinking dynamic and decision is trickier. But whether they stay at home or leave, what is clear is that a new family contract is necessary. It should be a renegotiation of the expectations and rules around cohabiting adults; a morphing of the relationship from one of parent to child, to something more equal and nurturing to both. It is yet another important midlife rite of passage. Much More To Come by Eleanor Mills (RRP 16.99) is available to pre-order now for 13.99 from The Telegraph Bookshop. Eleanor is the Founder of Noon.org.uk home of the Queenager Elon Musk responded on X that parody is legal in America. Photograph: Chesnot/Getty Images Kamala Harriss election campaign has accused Elon Musk of spreading manipulated lies after the Tesla chief executive posted a doctored video featuring the vice-president on his X account. Musk reposted a manipulated Harris campaign video on Friday evening in which a fake Harris voiceover says: I was selected because I am the ultimate diversity hire, and that anyone who criticises her is both sexist and racist. The video has been viewed 128m times on Musks account after the worlds richest man posted it with the words this is amazing followed by a laughing emoji. Musk owns X, which he rebranded from Twitter last year. Amy Klobuchar, a Democratic senator, accused Musk of violating the platforms guidelines. According to Xs synthetic and manipulated media policy, users are barred from sharing synthetic, manipulated, or out-of-context media that may deceive or confuse people and lead to harm although allowances are made for satire provided it does not cause significant confusion about the authenticity of the media. A spokesperson for Harriss presidential campaign said: The American people want the real freedom, opportunity and security Vice-President Harris is offering; not the fake, manipulated lies of Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The diversity hire attack line used by some Republicans has been criticised on both sides of the political fence, with the Republican former house speaker Kevin McCarthy calling the attacks stupid and the Democratic senator Raphael Warnock describing them as beneath the rhetoric the American people deserve at this time. The fake Harris video was posted originally by the @MrReaganUSA account, which is linked to the conservative YouTuber podcaster Chris Kohls, on X and is labelled a parody. Kamala Harris Campaign Ad PARODY pic.twitter.com/5lBxvyTZ3o Mr Reagan (@MrReaganUSA) July 26, 2024 However, Musk, who has endorsed Donald Trumps candidacy, did not flag the video as a parody when he posted it. The Democratic governor of California, Gavin Newsom, posted on X on Sunday evening that the manipulated Harris video should be illegal and that he would soon sign a bill banning such media, in apparent reference to a proposal supported by California lawmakers to ban materially deceptive election deepfakes. Musk responded on X that parody is legal in America, including the original @MrReaganUSA video below it. Imran Ahmed, chief executive of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, which has been critical of Xs content policies under its new owner, said Musk was signalling to his more than 190 million followers on X that this kind of AI-generated bile is welcome. He added: Musk is not a fit or proper person to be in control of X Corp. One deepfake expert said the Harris video showed the power of generative AI and deepfakes. The AI-generated voice is very good, said Hany Farid, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. Even though most people wont believe it is VP Harriss voice, the video is that much more powerful when the words are in her voice, and Im not sure that an AI-generated label would have had much impact on blunting this effect. This example shows the broad power of generative AI and deepfakes. Farid added that given Harriss status as the presumptive Democratic nominee for the presidential election, he expected the US will be seeing more and more of this type of nonsense. X has been contacted for comment. Kamala Harris speaks about the implementation of Florida's abortion ban, in Jacksonville in May. Photograph: John Raoux/AP Kamala Harris is staking out health, and especially reproductive rights and affordable healthcare, as a central issue in her historic campaign for the US presidency, experts say. The first ad for the Harris campaign, released on Thursday, prioritized bodily autonomy, safety from gun violence, and affordable healthcare alongside issues like child poverty and the rule of law. Reproductive rights will be far and away the driving focus of Harriss health-related messages and her entire campaign as well as prioritization of affordable healthcare and medications, according to Drew Altman, president of KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization. If Harris wins this election, I think it would be because of abortion bans and because of Dobbs, said Greer Donley, associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Abortion is a huge issue this election cycle and I think it will really help the campaign to capitalize on all of the momentum and all of the rage and anger about abortion bans. In the wake of the Dobbs decision overturning the right to abortion, the Biden-Harris administration has done an extraordinary job on this issue with the tools that they have, said Sabrina Corlette, research professor at Georgetown Universitys Center on Health Insurance Reforms. The administration solidified telehealth access for abortion, allowed veterans affairs hospitals to provide abortion counseling and services, clarified the Hipaa privacy rules to make sure health employees dont give protected information to law enforcement, and made sure that abortion, miscarriage, stillbirth and other reproductive healthcare are entitled to accommodations under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. They did a lot, Donley said. In other aspects of health, the administration has built on the Affordable Care Act and the Medicaid program to expand coverage and affordability, and began negotiating Medicare drug pricing. We have seen a real improvement in the numbers of people who have health insurance, and new resources to make health insurance more affordable, Corlette said. I would expect a Harris administration to try to build on and expand the gains in the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Harris campaign would probably go on the offense, Altman said, calling out Trumps policies and proposals to cut immensely popular health programs and contrasting them with gains over the past three years. Related: JD Vance called for federal response to block women from traveling for abortions Her posture probably will be characterized much more by attacking Trump on positions shell claim he will take on healthcare than by advancing her own healthcare positions, Altman said. As a senator, Harris was the first to co-sponsor the Medicare for All legislation put forward by the Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, and as a presidential candidate in 2020, she unveiled her own version of a similar plan. In her time in Congress, Harris also sponsored a bill to prohibit certain abortion restrictions and she introduced a bill to require public and private health insurers to cover medications that prevent HIV infections. But I dont think the past is going to be terribly relevant, Altman said. As a presidential candidate, Harris needed to rally the base and appeal to undecided voters, he said. I would expect her to continue the kind of aggressive incrementalism that weve seen from the Biden administration. One of the first healthcare battles facing a Harris administration would be the extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits originally enacted in 2021, now scheduled to expire at the end of 2025, Corlette said. Thats going to be a really important, critical battle, and I expect that she will champion a permanent extension of those because thats just had a huge impact on the affordability of health insurance coverage for a lot of people. Republicans have proposed capping and cutting Medicaid, a very popular program that covers almost 90 million Americans, Altman said. Some conservative Republican groups have also put forward fundamental changes to Medicare, which Altman calls politically a sacrosanct program. Trump and Vance have proposed weakening protections for people with pre-existing conditions, which are immensely popular, Altman said, as well as major changes to or even repealing the Affordable Care Act. Republican groups have also revived a focus on tax-preferred health savings accounts, in an effort to make healthcare more consumer-driven. What youd likely see under a Trump administration is a dismantling of the federal governments involvement in healthcare, Corlette said. Yet one of the biggest pain points for Americans right now is the cost of healthcare not just the cost of health insurance, but actually the cost when they go to the hospital or go to the doctor, she said. On abortion, Trump has proposed leaving the issue to the states nearly one-third of which have total abortion bans. That is not a position that is consistent with the majority of the American people, Donley said. Its radical. Trumps abortion plank also invokes fetal personhood, which could make abortion, IVF procedures, and miscarriages prosecutable as murder. The concept of fetal personhood, wherein a zygote, embryo or fetus has the same rights as people, is very scary. Its scary as everyone suggests it is, and not just for abortion, Donley said. While Bidens administration has made major strides on abortion, its never been an issue that I think he personally has felt comfortable with, Corlette said. Biden rarely even says the word abortion. Harris, on the other hand, has been much more outspoken about reproductive rights. Whoever wins this election could one day nominate new justices to the US supreme court, if some of the older justices were to leave the court. If Harris serves eight years, then she has the potential to really change the composition of the supreme court, Donley said. That could be a method to get Dobbs overturned. And obviously that would have implications that are far bigger than abortion. Protesters outside Sde Teiman detention facility. Photograph: Amir Cohen/Reuters An investigation by the Israeli military into the alleged abuse of a Palestinian detainee at a notorious military detention camp for prisoners captured in Gaza has sparked protests from members of Israels far right. The Israeli military said on Monday the office of its advocate general ordered an inquiry following suspected substantial abuse of a detainee at the Sde Teiman facility, which holds Palestinian detainees, including alleged members of Hamass elite Nukhba forces involved in the 7 October attack. Israels army radio said military police arrived at Sde Teiman as part of their investigation of 10 reserve IDF soldiers who were suspected of abusing the prisoner, a member of the Nukhba forces who has been classed as an illegal combatant. Related: Whistleblowers allege widespread abuses at Israeli detention camp The alleged abuse took place three weeks ago, they added. The detainee was found in a very serious condition, requiring his evacuation to a nearby hospital where he underwent surgery. Nine soldiers were detained, accused of serious abuse of a detainee, according to Israels army radio, while the 10th was expected to be arrested later as he was not at the base when the police arrived. But the operation triggered an angry confrontation between the military police and IDF soldiers at Sde Teiman, captured on video by a reporter from Israels public broadcaster Kann News. The detentions also prompted outcry from members of Israels far right, including a coalition of extreme-right members of parliament and their supporters who attempted to storm the military base in protest. Late on Monday, protesters also targeted a second base where the soldiers were being questioned, with violent confrontations continuing into the evening. Natan Sachs, head of the centre for Middle East policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, called the protests a sign of a very, very troubled time. I am very worried about the tensions that this reflects in society, he said. Officials from Israels military and political establishment were quick to condemn the intrusion on to the military base, but some limited their comments on the alleged abuse and its potential impact on Israels assault on Gaza. Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, who has pledged total victory in Gaza, strongly condemned the attempted break-in at Sde Teiman, but made no comment on the allegations. The defence minister, Yoav Gallant, said that even in difficult times, the law applies to everyone nobody may trespass into IDF bases or violate the laws of the state of Israel. The Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, called for calm, but said that hatred towards some of those accused of terrorist acts is surely understandable and justified. The IDFs chief of staff, Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, defended the investigation, and said: The incident of breaking into the Sde Teiman base is extremely serious and against the law we are at war, and actions of this kind endanger the security of the country. But Yariv Levin, Israels minister of justice and a member of Netanyahus political party, said he was shocked to see the images of soldiers arrested at Sde Teiman, in a way suitable for arresting dangerous criminals. He added: It is impossible to accept this, even if there is no debate regarding the obligation to observe the law and the orders of the army. A recent report by the UN Palestinian affairs agency, Unrwa, detailed extensive abuse at Sde Teiman, where detainees were subjected to beatings while made to lie on a thin mattress on top of rubble for hours without food, water or access to a toilet, with their legs and hands bound with plastic ties. Detainees including children reported being forced into cages and attacked by dogs, they said, while others had lasting wounds from their beatings, including with metal bars. Detainees also described abuse that included insults and humiliation such as being made to act like animals or getting urinated on, use of loud music and noise, deprivation of water, food, sleep and toilets, denial of the right to pray and prolonged use of tightly locked handcuffs causing open wounds and friction injuries, the report said. Related: Freed Gaza hospital head accuses Israel of repeated torture The UN said in June that an estimated 27 detainees have died in custody on Israeli military bases, including Sde Teiman, while at least four more have died in the Israeli prison system due to beatings or denial of medical treatment. Rights groups including the Association for Civil Rights in Israel have petitioned Israels high court to close Sde Teiman due to widespread reports of abuse. While officials have pledged to remove most of the detainees from the facility and transfer them into the Israeli prison system, which has also been accused of abusing detained Palestinians, the nature of any closure or transfers at Sde Teiman remains opaque. The Public Committee Against Torture in Israel said since the beginning of the war, we claimed that the Sde Teiman was operating as an ex-territory, and the soldiers stationed there were acting outside any law first in their treatment of detainees, and now towards military law enforcement agents. They added: Instead of absolute condemnation, some Israeli far-right leaders have rallied to support the suspects of abuse, which is emblematic of the root causes that enable such abuse to happen in the first place. Just Stop Oil activists sit on the floor at the entrance to departures - Tom Bowles/Thomas Bowles Photography Just Stop Oil protesters have failed in an attempt to block the entrance to departures at Gatwick airport, with holidaymakers simply stepping over them. The seven activists had locked themselves onto suitcases at the Southern Terminal at 8am on Monday. Video showed them sitting on the floor at the entrance to departures, but travellers stepping over them. It comes after the protest group, which is calling on the Government to establish a fossil fuel treaty, vowed last week to use all means necessary to disrupt summer holidays. Just Stop Oil protesters targeted Gatwick at around 8am on Monday - Tom Bowles/Thomas Bowles Photography One of the protesters, Mel Carrington, a 63-year-old former environmental consultant from Dorset, said: Weve just had the hottest three days on Earth in recorded history, and possibly for hundreds of thousands of years. Innocent people around the world already face extreme weather and deadly heat, and no one is prepared for the societal collapse that unchecked global heating will bring. Im terrified of what it will mean for my family and friends when there are widespread crop failures, food shortages and economic meltdowns. It will mean the breakdown of law and order, the end of the NHS and the loss of everything we depend on. The Telegraph understands the protest has had zero operational impact on departing flights or security queues - Tom Bowles/Thomas Bowles Photography Sussex Police said eight people had been arrested over the incident. A spokesman said: Police responded to a report that protesters were demonstrating near the security entrance at the South Terminal in Gatwick airport at around 8am. Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of interfering with public infrastructure, and a heightened police presence should be expected at this time. The airport is functioning as usual, and no disruption has been caused by protest activity. An airport spokesman said: London Gatwick is open and operating normally. There are a small number of protesters at the airport who have now been arrested and are being removed from the airport. Last week, 10 Just Stop Oil activists suspected of planning to disrupt Heathrow airport were arrested. None of the activists were able to get into the airport, the Met said. The latest action was part of what Just Stop Oil calls the Oil Kills international uprising at airports around the world. Environmental protesters blocked access to an office building on Old Queen Street, central London - Gareth Morris/Extinction Rebellion Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police said environmental protesters in central London had caused criminal damage and blocked access to an office building on Old Queen Street in Westminster. One person has been arrested for criminal damage and the incident is ongoing, the force added. Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leadership contender, pictured in April 2023 - Getty Were at Oxford Town Hall, in June 2006. David Cameron is presenting a report with Oxfam on international aid, and Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative party member but not yet an elected politician, is in attendance. A sandal-wearing, middle-aged white woman starts heckling, saying that Cameron is too privileged to understand the plight of poor Africans. She allegedly slaps Badenoch, whod stepped in to press the then-Tory leaders case, and runs off. Most people, as the victims of such an attack, would call security or the police. Not Badenoch, who gave chase. She got to the top of the stairs, Badenoch later recalled, and I caught her by the hair and I pulled her back. Then I realised the whole room had gone silent. Michael Ashcroft, chronicling all this, does note here that, years later, there is more than a hint of suspicion among some of Badenochs friends that she may have embroidered this tale although to what end? Blue Ambition, the latest in Ashcrofts line of political biographies, confirms what people already know: that Badenoch is loved by the Conservative grassroots, but unpopular with her peers. Some supporters speak in her favour. Rachel Maclean MP, part of the same 2017 Westminster intake, says that Badenoch really cares about the future of the country. Francis Maude, now in the Lords, says shes clever and brave and she has real star quality. Tory MP Conor Burns praises her for standing up to the provisional wing of the LGBT movement. But the criticism follows a theme. Badenoch, we hear, is antagonistic and volatile. Shes careless with peoples time: she would rock up to 9am meetings of the Dulwich and West Norwood Conservative Association at 9.45am and ask why everyone was leaving. Andrew Gibson, a Tory councillor at the time, says she was prone to turning up late, complaining and picking fights She wouldnt apologise, she would glare. He calls Badenoch an ingrate who sometimes treated people like servants. Gibson clearly isnt a fan, but even Badenochs friends paint her in that light. Shes not as popular as she needs to be on the Right of the parliamentary party, says one. Some people feel shes quite aggressive and arrogant. One of Ashcrofts chapters is simply called Angry. Another is called Eye of the Tiger because, while waiting to be interviewed for the Saffron Walden candidacy (which she won in 2017), Badenoch apparently avoided speaking to rival candidates and instead sat quietly listening on her headphones to the theme song from Rocky III. Michael Ashcroft's Blue Ambition is published by Biteback - Geoff Pugh/Biteback Another unnamed friend says, not very helpfully: Shes got this Nigerian approach to conflict resolution. Thats stayed with her. She will leap in. To her, this is all about combat. And from an ally: She can be abrasive but my observation is that if youre a 5 4 Nigerian immigrant, you probably do have to have sharper elbows. Blue Ambition delves into everything that Badenoch has said about race and her refusal to be pigeonholed as a black woman. With the help of regular researcher Miles Goslett, Ashcroft gives a reasonably full picture of Badenochs life, from her birth her parents briefly came from Nigeria to London for it, which gave Badenoch a British passport to her swift rise through the political ranks. But he has failed to find any skeletons in her cupboard. When Badenoch has made a claim of which hes suspicious, but he cant verify or disprove it, he just leaves it hanging: take, for instance, her assertion that her sixth-form college tutors supposedly told her she couldnt apply to study medicine at Oxford because it was for posh people. Ashcroft merely notes that it all happened 25 years ago, so its hard to judge, and besides, her eventual A-level grades wouldnt have been good enough for any medical school. The oddest snippet, meanwhile, is the suggestion that Badenoch rejected God after reading about the case of Josef Fritzl, who imprisoned his daughter for 24 years in a basement. But Badenoch emerges from this book as smart, determined, passionate, and willing to say things that other politicians wont on race, gender politics and everything else not just for attention, but because she truly means them. Does Ashcroft think thats enough to overcome the defects both her friends and rivals cite, and turn her into, as she is now running to be, a good Conservative leader? That we never find out. Instead, he sits on the fence. Perhaps hes looking over his shoulder in case Badenoch comes along and pushes him off. Blue Ambition is published by Biteback at 16.99. To order your copy for 16.99, call 0808 196 6794 or visit Telegraph Books Some private school pupils will have to switch to the state sector - Elva Etienne/Alamy Labours VAT plans for private schools will price some parents out of the sector, the Government has admitted. Rachel Reeves confirmed on Monday that they will start charging VAT on private schools from Jan 1 2025. Treasury documents published after the Chancellors speech confirmed ministers expect the new 20 per cent tax will drive some private school parents away. The Government recognises that these policy changes may lead to increased costs for some parents and carers, and that some pupils may subsequently move into the state education sector, the documents said. It marks the first time Labour has acknowledged in writing that its VAT changes mean private school will become unaffordable for some families. Treasury insists state classrooms have enough space to cope - Monkey Business/iStockphoto The number of private school pupils that could be forced out by fee increases is expected to represent a very small proportion of overall pupil numbers in the state sector, the documents added. The Treasury insisted it would have a minimal impact on state schools, and that classrooms would have enough space to accommodate extra private school pupils. It said local authorities would provide help for families priced out by the VAT hit, and that the Government understands that moving schools can be challenging. Labour has pointed to research by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) estimating that up to 40,000 pupils could be driven out by the plans and that this would be offset by a dramatic demographic drop by the end of the decade. The Department for Education has since revised up its pupil projection numbers, with analysis by The Telegraph suggesting this could lead to a much larger drop in state school children than expected. The Government also confirmed that there will be no VAT exemption for military families or children of diplomats, despite expectations they could be spared. Surprised by the move About 4,000 children in military families currently benefit from the Continuity of Education Allowance, a taxpayer-funded scheme that covers up to 90 per cent of boarding school fees. Ministers will instead monitor closely the impact of these policy changeson those families and may decide to change tack in its Spending Review next spring. The private school sector is understood to have been surprised by the move, with the Treasury handed calculations showing that exempting military families would only cost about 12 million. Ministers are understood to have brought forward the VAT plans for private schools substantially, with Labour insiders saying only weeks ago it would not come into force before Sept 2025. Ms Reeves also announced anti-forestalling legislation to crack down on pre-payment loopholes immediately. It comes despite senior Labour sources recently suggesting this would be announced in the Budget in October, meaning it also appears to have been brought forward. The Chancellor announced the changes as she unveiled a 20 billion black hole in the public finances and accused the previous Conservative government of covering up shortfalls. Royal High School Bath, a girls' private boarding and day school - Ben Birchall/PA The accelerated timeline for introducing VAT on private schools means headteachers will likely now spend the summer holidays drawing up cost-cutting plans and deciding on fee hikes for parents. The Treasury said on Monday it expected private schools to make budget cutbacks to avoid passing the 20 per cent levy on to parents in full, and that most schools that raise fees would only do so by about 15 per cent. It said: It will be a commercial decision for individual schools how they fund this additional cost. There are a variety of ways in which a school may choose to do this, including reducing their surpluses or reserves, cutting back on non-essential expenditure, and increasing fees. Whilst it will be for individual schools to consider how they manage this cost based on their individual circumstances, the Government expects private schools to take steps to minimise fee increases. Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council, said private schools still had not been consulted about the plans. Disrupted education She said: Thousands of children face having their education disrupted as a result of this unprecedented tax. The draft legislation was published before consultation with independent schools. We will be working over the coming months to engage the Government on the consequences of this policy on schools, families and communities. It remains our belief that the best way to improve education for all is for schools to work together, not to tax education. A Whitehall source said: Under this Labour Government, education is back at the forefront of our national story. Despite the trail of devastation left by the Tories, we are determined to deliver better life chances for our children and growth in our economy. And theres no time to waste in spreading opportunity for our young people after the 14 years of Tory neglect of our education system. Thats why this Government has announced today that we will fully fund a pay rise for our dedicated teachers and support staff, and why we will deliver on our pledge to invest in our brilliant state schools by ending tax breaks for private schools. People protest the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro the winner of the presidential election, the day after the vote in Caracas, Venezuela, on Monday. Photograph: Fernando Vergara/AP It was mid-morning in Catia 12 hours after Nicolas Maduro claimed victory in Venezuelas presidential election and the residents of this longtime chavista stronghold were up in arms. At first the sound of spoons clattering against crockery began timidly, puncturing the eerie silence that gripped large chunks of the capital, Caracas, in the hours after Maduros highly controversial move to claim another six-year term. Soon it grew into a thundering, indignant cacophony as locals appeared at their grated windows with pots, pans and plates to let the Venezuelan strongman know what they thought of his 11-year rule, during which the oil-rich country has nosedived into one of the worst-ever economic collapses outside a war zone. People are fed up with the same old shit, with the fraud, fumed one local, Yesica Otaiza, as the cacerolazo pot-banging protest a South American tradition intended to express political discontent spread to a neighbouring tower block and along the street. We are longing for change and [Maduro] laughed at us and rubbed it in our faces, said the 38-year-old street hawker who, like many, was convinced the election had been stolen. He doesnt want to accept that he lost. A 12-year-old girl called Sofia Sanchez pointed her mothers mobile phone skywards towards the balconies to capture the startling uproar once unthinkable in a pro-government bastion like the Catia neighbourhood. Was just out doing interviews in Caracass working class west when this astonishing cacerolazo pot-banging protest broke out around us in a longtime Chavista bastion pic.twitter.com/gbIY77UvKz Tom Phillips (@tomphillipsin) July 29, 2024 Theyre doing this because they dont agree with what President Nicolas Maduro Moros is doing, said the girl, explaining how two of her aunts had fled overseas to Chile to escape the economic meltdown. They dont want Maduro as president because he hasnt been a good president. Similar sentiments could be heard across Venezuelas on-edge capital on Monday after Maduros disputed claim to have won re-election sparked international condemnation and outrage from opposition voters who believe they were the true winners. The British Foreign Office said it was concerned by allegations of serious irregularities in the vote and Chiles leftist president, Gabriel Boric, called the result hard to believe. Maduros opponent, a low-key former diplomat called Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, and his campaigning partner, the conservative activist Maria Corina Machado, have both rejected the presidents claim to have won re-election. We won and everybody knows it, Machado declared on Sunday after the government-controlled electoral authority announced Maduro had prevailed with 51.21% of the vote compared with Gonzalezs 44.2%. As charcoal-coloured clouds hung low over the mountain-flanked city, many streets were strangely deserted and shops were closed as residents braced for potential turmoil and street protests over the coming days. So far things are calm but there are rumours about disturbances, said David Perdomo, a 58-year-old shoemaker, as he sat on a bench on Bulevar de Sabana Grande, a normally teeming shopping district where there was hardly a soul to be seen and most shutters were down. Perdomo said he had always voted for the government, since Hugo Chavez was democratically elected in 1998, catapulting the oil-rich South American country into 25 years of uninterrupted chavista rule. But this year he had switched sides. They made so many promises and they did nothing, he complained of Maduros increasingly repressive administration which has presided over a huge migration crisis that has seen about 8 million citizens flee abroad. One of those economic exiles is Perdomos grandson who he has not seen since he moved to neighbouring Colombia seven years ago. Other relatives live in Chile and Ecuador. Further along the boulevard, Mary Monsalve stood outside a hairdressers shop and voiced frustration at the oppositions supposed defeat. People are sad and disappointed, said the 42-year-old nurse, describing how Maduros claim of victory had come as a shock. In the working-class neighbourhood where she lives, she had seen few voters turn out to vote in the red shirts traditionally worn by chavistas on election days. This time most people came in white, she noted. What was that colour supposed to symbolize? La libertad, Monsalve replied. Freedom. Related: To be reunited would be a dream: Venezuelan exiles fate hangs on vote Not all the Venezuelans on Sabana Grande were upset by Maduros claim to have won. Enrique Pacheco, a jobless builder, celebrated the result as he clutched a government-controlled tabloid that had stamped a photo of Maduros grinning face on its front page alongside the percentage of the vote he supposedly won: 51.2. Its good news. Hes not to blame for the situation the country he is facing, argued Pacheco, 79, blaming Venezuelas opposition and the United States for causing the countrys economic collapse with its campaign of sanctions. They cant attack us with missiles so they use sanctions, Pacheco said, hailing Maduro as an everyman president of the poor. It cant work out if the people who voted for the opposition are stupid, imbeciles or just ignorant. But many more of the voices heard during a three-hour tour of Caracas appeared to have voted against the incumbent and were perplexed and exasperated that their candidate had lost. Many people thought Corina would win and they cant understand what happened, said Ayari Rauseo, a 48-year-old clothes seller as she sat on a concrete bench in Catia and described how Venezuelas slow-motion collapse had torn her family apart. Rauseos sister is currently in Mexico, battling to reach the US where she hoped to build a new life. Her brother lives in Manaus, the largest city in the Brazilian Amazon, with her son. Her daughter was also now thinking about leaving. She wants to go to Spain, Rauseo said, staring despondently into the middle distance. I just dont have any more words. Rauseo called herself a longtime supporter of the Bolivarian socialist-inspired movement Chavez entrusted to Maduro before his premature 2013 death. [I always voted] for the revolution always, always, always, she said. No more. Minutes later, the strange mid-morning silence was broken as the pot-banging protests erupted, here and in other blue-collar areas that were once hotbeds of chavista support. On the highway back into town, the sound of clanking kitchenware echoed from the red-brick shanties lining the road. Brightly coloured propaganda billboards and posters jumped out from the urban landscape, their pro-Maduro slogans at odds with the metallic din. I choose peace. I choose Nicolas, read one. Another informed the few passing motorists: Nicolas is our hope. Met Police officers surrounded and handcuffed the suspect at the scene - CONNOR TUXFORD/SWNS A memorial to the murdered fusilier Lee Rigby has been vandalised, with plant pots smashed and flowers pulled up. A tree and memorial stone, just metres away from where the soldier was murdered 11 years ago, were damaged on Sunday. A man was arrested at the scene. Rigby was run over and stabbed by the Islamic extremists Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale outside Woolwich barracks in south-east London in May 2013. He was 25 when he died. A tribute to him was planted by the Royal Borough of Greenwich following his death. Police were called to the site at 12.47pm on Sunday after the damage was reported. Lee Rigby was murdered by Islamic extremists in south-east London in 2013 - FAMILY HANDOUT Connor Tuxford, 31, a local resident, saw a man being escorted into a waiting police van. The warehouse operative said: I went to pull out my phone as he was sitting on the floor with his legs crossed. He was clearly waiting for someone to notice him, for the attention. I was just walking back from work and I saw this guy ripping up all the flowers and smashing some jars. I went and cleaned up the memorial afterwards because no one else did. I didnt think much or anything of it, but they started clapping me as I was doing it. Mr Tuxford said officers informed him the attack had been seen on CCTV. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: Officers attended and a man was arrested at the location. He has been taken to police custody. Octavia Johnson is a general assignment reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at octavia.johnson@houstonchronicle.com. Before joining the Chronicle, Octavia worked as a digital content producer at WATE-TV in Knoxville, Tenn., where she became a leader in producing fast paced, audience-focused content. Octavia graduated from UNC Pembroke with a bachelor's degree in journalism before earning her master's degree in media and communications at Norfolk State University. Monitor says its exercise shows it is possible to name those killed while a war is ongoing. Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Anadolu/Getty Images A conflict monitor has named nearly 3,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza in almost 350 separate incidents during the first 17 days of the war the first step in an exercise aimed at identifying every civilian killed during the Israeli military campaign. Though the 2,993 victims named are a fraction of the overall death total of 39,000 cited by the Palestinian ministry of health in Gaza, Airwars, the group involved, says the effort shows it is possible to name those killed while a war is ongoing. Emily Tripp, the director of Airwars, said: Militaries often tell us it is impossible to know who has been killed and how but one of our key messages is to show that it is possible. The only thing holding us back is the size of our teams. Airwars was able to name 65 people killed in what is believed to have been an Israeli airstrike on a market in Jabalia refugee camp on 9 October, the most deadly single incident covered by in the initial period, the first two and a half weeks of a war that has now lasted more than nine months. Related: Before Freedom: reclaiming representations of Palestine in pictures Investigators relied on a range of reports, most notably Facebook posts from relatives and friends, to list the identities of those killed in the attack, which took place at 10.30am in a market street crowded with people. Nineteen-year-old Imad Hamad was one of the people killed. At the time, his father, Ziyad Hamad, asked why his son deserved to be killed when he was trying to buy bread, according to a report from Amnesty International, which was collated by Airwars. To lose my son, to lose my house, to sleep on the floor of a classroom? My children are wetting themselves, of panic, of fear, of cold. We have nothing to do with this. What fault did we commit? I raised my child, my entire life, for what? To see him die while buying bread, Ziyad Hamad said. Each death recorded is linked to one of 346 specific incidents examined so far we know how and when each person was killed, Tripp said and the aim of Airwars is to produce a dossier on each episode that could serve as the basis of future efforts to achieve accountability. Our job is to act as a bridge between chaos and justice, to serve civilian victims of military action around the world. We see what we are doing as essential initial work before further investigations can be done, Tripp added. Children represented the largest single group of those recorded as killed by Airwars, at 1,129 or 37.7%, while 28.4% were men and 23.5% women. Ages of the remainder were unknown and so could not be firmly categorised. The group was also able to further validate nearly 75% of the victims names it had obtained 2,236 men, women and children by cross-referencing them with a list of 7,000 names released by the Palestinian ministry of health in Gaza in late October. At the time, the health ministry was seeking to rebut criticism that its casualty lists were inaccurate or too large to believe. Airwars argues its work is another demonstration that, as Tripp said, It is possible to believe the MoH figures, and you dont have to wait many years to be sure. A small number of the dead were known to be Hamas commanders but, otherwise, it is not clear how many of the groups fighters are on the Airwars list. Israel says it does not target civilians, and accuses Hamas of using hospitals and other civilian structures for military operations. The conflict monitor says the intensity of the Israel-Gaza war, which began after Hamas fighters unexpectedly broke out of the strip to attack Israel on 7 October, killing around 1,200, far exceeds that of any conflict it has tracked for the past decade with thousands of deadly incidents not yet analysed. Airwars has so far logged more than 4,450 episodes of civilian harm since the start of the war and has analysed 550 of them, including 346 from the first 17 days. Another 200 are under review by a team of 10 to 15 investigators who mostly work in Arabic, tracking media and social media reports. A feature of the conflict has been the large number of casualties caused by each attack. Though outside the 17-day date range, Airwars has listed more than 100 deaths from a handful of other incidents, including three at the end of October: an airstrike at al-Taj; attacks on the Jabalia refugee camp; and the bombing of a tower east of the Nuseirat camp. Prior to this conflict, it was very rare to find cases where there were more than 10 civilians killed, Tripp said. But here, suddenly, we found that in a third of our cases, there were reports of 10 civilians killed. Last years litter survey found an average of one plastic bag every 100 metres, compared with five every 100 metres in 2014. Photograph: mauritius images GmbH/Alamy The number of plastic bags washed up on UK beaches has fallen by 80% over a decade, since a mandatory fee was imposed on shoppers who opt to pick up single-use carrier bags at the checkout. According to the Marine Conservation Societys (MCS) annual litter survey, volunteers found an average of one plastic bag every 100 metres of coastline surveyed last year, compared to an average of five carrier bags every 100 metres in 2014. The charity, which has monitored beach litter for the past three decades, said the drop was undoubtedly due to the introduction of mandatory charges, which can range from 5p to 25p, for single-use plastic bags. Lizzie Price, Beachwatch programme manager at MCS, said: It is brilliant to see policies on single-use plastics such as carrier bags working. Large retailers in Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England have been required to charge for single-use plastic bags by laws introduced in 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The charge was increased from 5p to 10p in 2021 for England and Scotland and is 25p in Northern Ireland. Wales, where the minimum charge remains 5p, has said it will ban the bags altogether by 2026. Price urged the devolved UK governments to push forward with their policies to charge for, ban or reduce more single-use items, and take action such as speeding up the proposed deposit scheme for plastic bottles, cans and glass. All four UK nations have been working together to try to agree a joint approach to the scheme, which has now been delayed until 2027. We must move quicker towards a society that repairs, reuses and recycles, said Price. The number of plastic bags found along the coastline began to dramatically drop across the UK in 2015, according to the charity. In Scotland, the average number found was 11 per 100 metres in 2014, but had dropped to six in 2015, a year after the charge was introduced. Related: Plastic in the Depths: how pollution took over our oceans The MCSs 2023 beach litter report, which included 1,199 separate surveys, found that 97% of beaches had drinks-related litter, such as bottle and cans. It found 4,684 plastic bags. The societys beach cleaning effort takes place all year round, but it collects a third of its data during its Great British Beach Clean events. Last year, thousands of volunteers found that drinks-related litter had increased by 14% in Scotland and 7% in England, compared with 2022. Overall, it recorded a 1.2 % increase in plastic litter across the UK, with an average of 167 items per 100 metres. The most common five items found were plastic pieces measuring 2.5-30cm, packets such as crisp and sandwich wrappers, caps and lids, plastic string and cord, and plastic bottles and containers. More than 100 litter-picks have been organised for this years Great British Beach Clean, which will take place 20-29 September on shores from Bude in Cornwall to Aikerness in the Orkney Islands. Cressida Gethin was one of five JSO protestors who conspired to disrupt the M25 by scaling a gantry for four days in 2022 - Lucy North/PA If I had to step over some Just Stop Oil activists at an airport while carrying luggage and small children, I too might have joined in the prevailing lock em up mentality that swirls around these protests. Thats certainly the mentality of the ordinary people who just want to go on holiday (Spain is hitting 40C as I write hot enough for you?) In trying to draw attention to the climate emergency, these zealots are apparently the selfish ones as they plan to cause a summer of chaos. The full force of the law must come down upon them, were told. And now it has: five protestors who conspired to disrupt the M25 by scaling a gantry for four days in 2022 have been handed sentences of four and five years. These are longer than some sentences for sexual assault. These extremely long sentences for nonviolent protests (or more specifically, conspiracy to cause a public nuisance) are designed, presumably, to deter others and satisfy public outrage. But at the same time, our prisons are so over-crowded that many inmates are being let out early to ensure the entire system does not collapse. None of this adds up, does it? Its even more baffling when you consider that three of those M25 miscreants are women. One of them is Cressida Gethin, 22, who is now serving four years in HMP Bronzefield. She is reportedly waltzing round her cell and is determined not to be broken. But if she becomes a martyr for anything, it will be for drawing attention to the plight of women in prison. Here in HMP Bronzefield, there are hundreds of women who have been objectively failed by society and by the British legal system, Gethin said. They are treated as though their lives are worthless and their souls are disposable. Not only do I not see much use in locking up this bright young woman, but I think most of the women in prison should not be there in the first place. Gethin could have been heavily fined or tagged, and her considerable skills shes a Cambridge University music student could have been used as part of compulsory community service. Instead, we will spend about 52,000 a year to lock up Gethin. Is this money well spent? Currently there are 3,635 women in jail (compared to 87,869 men) and the Ministry of Justice says this will increase to around 4,200 by 2027. Are all these women dangerous? Whenever I have spoken to anyone who works with female offenders, they tell me that they have only ever met a handful of women who are a threat to the community. To walk into a womens jail is to walk into a place of despair, self-harm, addiction and life stories of abuse. No one cares much about women in prison. They featured in the trans debate because, amazingly, they did not want to share space with those whom we are forever being told are the most marginalised group in the country in this case, male-born sex offenders who have conveniently chosen to identify as women. But otherwise, this actually marginalised and vulnerable group is pretty much left to fester. Prison is not a safe space the conditions are dire and there are currently historic levels of self-harm. Around 70 per cent of women in prison are not there for any violent crime but for offences such as theft and drug dealing, even TV licence evasion. The person they are a danger to is themselves. I accept, obviously, that the small percentage of the women who have committed violent crimes and who are a danger to others have to be incarcerated. However, half of the women we lock up, we do so for less than six months. If rehabilitation is the goal, then this is too short a time for much to happen. Instead, these short sentences disrupt the lives of women and their families (60 per cent of these women are mothers) and their subsequent ability to get jobs or housing. In other words, the system locks instability into lives that have often already been deeply fractured. Female prisoners with children may choose not to see them while they are inside as it is too painful. They may lose custody of them. We lock up pregnant women and 100 babies a year are born in female prisons. Is this really the right approach? We are also being told that violence against women is at emergency levels. Meanwhile, we imprison more and more women who have been victims of male violence. Why are the dots never joined? Prison reform, never a sexy cause, has been shelved over and over again because governments want to be seen to be tough on crime. Prison is meant to be a punishment and is supposed to take out of the community those who would endanger it. The reality is that it is a dumping ground for women who have experienced trauma, domestic abuse, homelessness and mental health problems. If this Government is serious about tackling the prison crisis, it could start by emptying out these jails and monitoring women in the community. For decades, we have known that these places just do not work on any level; they neither rehabilitate or deter crime. The pointless imprisonment of middle-class female protestors draws attention to the plight of the poor souls regularly trying to kill themselves with ligatures and nooses they spend all day making in their cells. These places are not fit for purpose and anyone who has ever been inside one can vouch for that. A Rex Boeing 737 takes off from Tullamarine airport in Melbourne. Photograph: William West/AFP/Getty Images Turbulence at Rex Airlines appears to be deepening after the carrier requested a trading halt following speculation it would appoint consultants to turnaround its financial woes. On Monday, the ASX announced it had suspended trade in the airlines shares after it had requested the move pending an announcement related to a news article published on Saturday, understood to be a report in the Australian that the airline had appointed turnaround experts from Deloitte. Rexs request suggested an imminent related announcement, with the halt in place until the commencement of trade on Wednesday. The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, said an airline running into trouble was a weekly occurrence in the tough, global industry. Related: Bonza is the latest victim of Australian neoliberalism. Its hard to see a new airline arriving any time soon | John Quiggin One thing we need to do is to make sure that we have a viable and ongoing Australian aviation industry, he told ABC News. But he added that a range of communities around the nation relied on the carrier. Rex is the only airline to go to some of those destinations, so its important, Albanese said. The prime minister met his transport minister, Catherine King, on Monday and further information had been sought from the airline, he said. Opposition transport spokeswoman, Bridget McKenzie, accused the minister of dithering over reforms to aviation, perpetuating a lack of competition in the sector. It is time this government pulled its head out of the sand and starts pulling on the levers to foster more competition, better reliability and more affordable airfares in Australia, she said in a statement. Two aviation companies control more than 93% of the domestic space and companies like Rex create more competition which means cheaper airfares across the board. The regional airline, formerly known as Regional Express following its formation after the death of Ansett, has since 2020 began vying for a share of the lucrative market between capital cities, flying a fleet of nine Boeing 737s mostly between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Rex has steadily expanded its jet operations including to Perth, acquired fly-in fly-out operator National Jet Express, and outperformed Qantas and Virgin in on-time performance. However, it has struggled with a range of issues, including allegations of anti-competitive behaviour from Qantas, difficulty accessing strategically important Sydney airport slots at peak times a gripe that failed budget operator Bonza also complained of as well as parts and pilot shortages hampering its core regional operations relying on its ageing fleet of 36-seater Saab 340 aircraft. Rex reported a loss of $3.2m for the first half of the 2023-24 financial year in February, compared with a $16.5m loss in the prior period, saying escalating costs, particularly for fuel, made it hard to predict full-year profitability. Rex has also been rocked by leadership tensions, with major shareholder and former executive chairman Lim Kim Hai ousted in June, replaced by John Sharp, the deputy chairman and former Nationals federal transport minister. Lim has since pushed to remove Sharp and three other directors from the board, with a special shareholder meeting to vote on Lims demands. Ruqia Haidari was murdered at 21 by the man her mother forced her to marry, a court has heard. Photograph: supplied Ruqia Haidari wanted to marry for love. Instead, she had an arranged marriage at the age of just 15, with the relationship ending in divorce when she was 20. In the eyes of Sheppartons Afghan Hazara community where Haidaris family settled after fleeing the Taliban she was deemed a bewa, meaning she had lost her value due to the divorce, a Victorian court heard last week. It was Haidaris mothers desire to restore her reputation, the prosecution argued, that led to her coercing her daughter into a second marriage, this time to 25-year-old Perth man Mohammad Ali Halimi. Their loveless marriage lasted less than two months. Halimi murdered his 21-year-old wife in their suburban Perth unit on 18 January 2020. The same year, the Australian federal police (AFP) charged Haidaris mother, grieving over the loss of her daughter, with orchestrating a forced marriage. After a two-week trial in May, Sakina Muhammad Jan became the first person in Australia to be found guilty of arranging a forced marriage since the practice was criminalised more than 10 years ago. Jan returned to the county court in Melbourne on Monday, where Judge Fran Dalziel sentenced her to three years in prison, with 12 months to be served before she is released under several conditions including being of good behaviour. Dalziel said that Jan, a permanent resident, could also face deportation back to Afghanistan, which would be a very grave thing for a Hazara woman. You abused your position as her [Haidaris] mother, as the person with whom she loved and respected, Dalziel said. While you believed you were acting in her best interests, you were not in fact doing so. She said that she believed it was the first time a person had been sentenced for a forced marriage, but noted that sentences were pending in New South Wales. Those convicted of forced marriage, a form of modern slavery, face a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment. In a statement released before Jans sentencing, the federal attorney general, Mark Dreyfus, on Monday said forced marriage is the most reported slavery-like offence to the AFP. The AFP said they received 90 reports of forced marriage in 2022-23 alone. The Australian government is working with state and territory governments to tackle the issue of forced marriage, including by exploring enhanced civil protections and remedies for those affected, Dreyfus said, as he announced a public consultation process on potential reforms. Everyone in Australia should be free to choose if, who and when they marry. Wanted to marry for love During Mondays hearing, Dalziel said she accepted the prosecutions position that Jans offending was a mid-range example of forced marriage, and rejected her protestations to police and a forensic psychologist that she had not known her daughter did not want to marry. It must be made clear to everyone in our country that forced marriage is against the law, and that forcing someone to take part in a marriage against their will leads to significant consequences for the offender real punishment will follow such an offence. Sitting in the courtroom were more than a dozen supporters of Jan. Even more were turned away from the full courtroom. Jan, who was supported by a translator, sat impassively and did not speak during the hearing. But she became animated and emotional while being asked by her lawyer to sign orders related to her sentence, as did several of her supporters. She is aged 47 or 48, the court heard, a mother of five and grandmother of nine. All her children had arranged marriages, the court heard. Jan had pleaded not guilty to the offence. At 15, Haidaris mother allegedly forced her to marry a man in an Islamic religious ceremony before it ended in divorce, the court had heard. The prosecution argued that after the divorce, Haidari was viewed as not having good prospects for marriage, prompting her mother to begin the search for a new husband. A matchmaker and mutual friend of Haidari and Halimi became involved and arranged for Halimi to fly to Shepparton in June 2019 to meet his prospective wife. The court heard Haidari, Jans youngest child, told her mother, two driving instructors, a teacher, a counsellor and police she did not want to marry Halimi. Prosecutor Darren Renton SC said Haidari had told a friend she wanted to marry for love and did not want a second arranged marriage. The pair were wedded in a religious ceremony in November 2019 that was not officially registered, after Halimi paid a bride dowry of $14,000 to Jan. Sentencing remarks from Halimis murder trial in the Western Australia supreme court laid bare the strained and brief marriage. Haidari rejected her husbands attempts at sexual intimacy, telling him to go away. The day before he murdered Halimi, he sent a video to her family, complaining that she would sleep late and did not cook or clean. In the sentencing remarks, justice Bruno Fiannaca said Halimis police interview after the murder revealed he knew that Haidari had been pressured into marriage. Halimi, who has been serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 19 years, also told police he found documentation showing Haidari had gone to police to find out if she could be forced to marry, the murder trial heard. The ultimate risk During a hearing in the county court last week, the defence and prosecution agreed there was no evidence that Jan knew Halimi would murder her daughter. But Renton argued that the ultimate risk of forced marriage was that people could be murdered. He said Jan breached the trust of her daughter, as the sole living parent of Haidari after the Taliban murdered her father when she was one month old. He argued that Jan, who demonstrated no insight into the offence or remorse for her actions, needed to be imprisoned to deter others from engaging in the practice. Defence barrister Andrew Buckland had argued against a sentence of imprisonment, saying the verdict was a source of great shame for Jan, who spoke no English and had never attended school. Jan herself had entered into a forced marriage at 12 or 13 years old, before having her first child a year later. Buckland said she was perhaps only doing what she knew. He argued Jan believed she was doing the right thing for her daughter under community pressures. Dalziel found that there was no suggestion Jan knew Halimi was violent, but that she had still breached her responsibility. All her family were within the small Hazara community in Shepparton, as were her friends, the judge said. She would have known that not taking part in the marriage would have raised questions about you and the rest of her family within the Hazara community She was concerned not only about your anger but about your standing within the Hazara community. After Jan was taken into custody, one of her supporters collapsed in court. Some others shouted and cried outside the courtroom. One woman shouted: I lost my sister, and now I lost my mum. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is on 13 11 14 and the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732. In the UK, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123 and the domestic abuse helpline is 0808 2000 247. In the US, the suicide prevention lifeline is 988 and the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Other international helplines can be found via www.befrienders.org With reporting by Australian Associated Press Giovanni Pernice has been accused of abusive behaviour in training sessions with former celebrity dance partners - Dave J Hogan/Getty Images Europe Giovanni Pernice wants a swift BBC decision on the Strictly Come Dancing misconduct allegations so he can move on with his career, The Telegraph understands. The Italian dancer, 33, has been accused of abusive behaviour in training sessions with former celebrity dance partners including the actress Amanda Abbington. It is understood that the dancers team is eagerly awaiting the result of a BBC review so Pernice, who has been adamant he will clear his name, can move on from the controversy as soon as possible. The dancer and his accusers continue to wait for the conclusion of the investigation, which insiders believe may be available this week. Sources close to the investigation said that there was uncertainty as to whether the BBCs conclusion would be made public, or if it would simply be shared with the legal teams of those involved in the dispute. Laura Whitmore, the 39-year-old TV presenter, last week posted a string of messages on Instagram stating that she warned the BBC about Pernices alleged behaviour early on during her spell on Strictly. This followed Abbington, 50, giving an emotional interview on ITVs Lorraine on July 25, in which she said of her alleged treatment: It was inappropriate; it was mean, it was nasty, it was bullying. I put up with it for five weeks, six weeks. Amanda Abbington has made bullying allegations against Pernice - Guy Levy It started early on and when it started to happen, I would shut down because I would recognise those red flags. Pernices team hopes that recordings of a training session with Abbington will help to clear his name. It was reported that in the audio clip recording, Abbington can be heard apologising for being a nightmare, and the pair end their exchange by saying love you. The BBC invited both parties to submit evidence as the broadcaster investigated claims made by Abbington. The actress partnered with Pernice in 2023 but quit the show early. Early in 2024, she claimed to have been diagnosed with mild PTSD following her experiences. She went on to accuse Pernice of being abusive, and alleged that she had suffered humiliating behaviour of a sexual nature. She made clear that she was not a victim of sexual harassment. Tim Davie, the BBC director-general, has commented on the ongoing row, saying at the launch of the broadcasters annual report that he was very sorry that anyone has had an experience that hasnt been wholly positive. He added: Thats something we do need to reflect on and Im sorry about that. There are clearly learnings specifically about oversight in the training rooms that we had needed to address. Despite quitting Strictly earlier this year amid allegations of misconduct, Pernice has had no shortage of work and has been on a nationwide tour with Anton du Beke, his former Strictly colleague. The Sicilian has also held popular Ballando dance classes in central London, some of which have been supported by Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood, the Strictly judges, even as accusations hang over the dancer. Taking to Instagram, the star shared images of recent classes, which he wrote had sold out. Some rumours had circulated that ITV were looking at Pernice as a potential participant in Im a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! to capitalise on his popularity. However, sources have moved to dismiss these as rumours with no foundation. Patients and campaigners go topless outside Parliament in protest over lack of approval for breast cancer drug Enhertu - Andrew Aitchison / In pictures via Getty Images Breast cancer sufferers will be denied a life-extending drug after price talks broke down. Enhertu was found in drug trials to give women suffering from advanced breast cancer an extra six months. The Breast Cancer Now charity said that it was devastated and angry after the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) refused to agree to roll out the drug on the NHS, saying the manufacturer had been unwilling to offer a fair price. The charity said womens lives would be shortened, with patients caught in the middle of a stand-off over costs that would deny them precious time About 1,000 patients could have benefited from the drugs. However, the companies behind the drug said they disagreed with the way the rationing body had carried out its assessment. Nice said it was deeply disappointed that it was unable to recommend trastuzumab deruxtecan sold under the brand name Enhertu because of the cost. Enhertu is the first licensed targeted treatment for patients with HER2-low breast cancer that cannot be removed surgically or that has spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastatic breast cancer. Draft guidance published by Nice in September said it would not recommend the drug for NHS use in England owing to uncertainties in the information provided by the manufacturer. Talks were then held with pharmaceutical companies Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca aimed at reducing the costs of the drugs, which have a standard price of 118,000 per course of treatment. Helen Knight, the director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said: As weve always made clear, the fastest and only guaranteed way to get medicines like Enhertu to the patients who need them is for companies to offer a fair price. We are deeply disappointed that we are unable to recommend Enhertu for use in the NHS for advanced HER2-low breast cancer, which breaks a sequence of 21 positive breast cancer recommendations over the last six years. Nice and NHS England offered as much flexibility as possible, but the companies did not put forward a new price, so we have no choice but to publish our final decision which is not to recommend the medicine in this group of patients. A spokesman for Daiichi Sankyo said: We are very disappointed by, and disagree with, the decision Nice has made. Nice misclassifies HER2-low metastatic breast cancer as a medium severity disease and this stands in the way of patient access in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Eighteen other European countries, including Scotland and most recently Romania, have already delivered routine patient access to trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-low breast cancer patients. We are calling on Nice to evolve the way treatments are assessed for patients in England to create a system that appropriately recognises the severity of metastatic cancers and enables equitable access for patients in line with other countries. We remain committed to working with Nice to find a way forward for these patients one that appropriately recognises the severity of this disease and the value of the medicines that target it. Breast Cancer Now has said that the drugs offer women six more months to live. Rachael Franklin, the charitys interim chief executive, added: We are both devastated and angry that womens lives will be shortened as a direct result of Nice, NHS England, Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca failing to agree a solution that would make Enhertu available on the NHS in England for thousands of people with HER2-low secondary breast cancer. This was an avoidable tragedy. Patients have found themselves caught in the middle of a stand-off about cost and the system, which is denying them precious hope of more time to live thats time with their families and children and doing what matters most to them. Approved in Scotland With Enhertu available to women in so many other countries, including Scotland, it is unacceptable this promising treatment will be out of reach for women in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Enhertu was approved for use on the NHS in Scotland by the Scottish Medicines Consortium in December. Ms Franklin said: A deep injustice is at play here and we will continue to do all in our power to see this decision reversed. We have raised this situation with the new Government and will continue to work with patient advocates and the hundreds of thousands of people who have backed our Enhertu Emergency campaign to press all parties to see a solution found. However, the heartbreaking but inescapable reality is that these women dont have time to wait, she added. Tommy Robinson did not appear in court for a hearing on Monday - Chris J Ratcliffe/REUTERS Tommy Robinson was arrested for refusing a search while trying to leave the country, a court has heard. The far-Right activist, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was detained by police at the Channel Tunnel at Folkestone after he failed to comply with a stop and search. He was subsequently arrested for frustration of Schedule Seven of the Terrorism Act 2000 but left the UK after being bailed at about 10pm on Sunday, the High Court heard. On Monday, Mr Justice Johnson issued a warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear at the High Court in relation to a separate contempt of court case. He said the warrant for Robinsons arrest should not be executed until early October to allow him time to indicate that he would attend the next hearing voluntarily, or to apply to set aside the order. I am told that he was arrested yesterday Addressing the court, Adam Payter, counsel for the Solicitor General, said Robinsons arrest followed a demonstration in central London on Saturday at which he played a controversial film featuring Jamal Hijazia, a Syrian refugee, after being expressly forbidden to do so at a court hearing in 2021. Mr Justice Johnson said: I am told that he was arrested yesterday under Schedule Seven of the Terrorism Act 2000, that may only be exercised at a port. I am told that it was exercised at the Euro Tunnel port at Folkstone. The respondent failed to comply with the stop under Schedule Seven, it is alleged, and he was arrested. But he was released at 10pm last night. I am told that he was explicitly reminded of the hearing today before he left the jurisdiction. The Solicitor General launched legal action against Robinson in June over an alleged breach of a court order after he lost a libel battle in 2021. Mr Hijazi sued Robinson after the then-schoolboy was assaulted at a school in Huddersfield in October 2018. After a clip of the incident went viral, Robinson made false claims, including about Mr Hijazi attacking girls at his school, leading to the libel case. Mr Justice Nicklin ordered Robinson to pay Mr Hijazi 100,000 in damages and his legal costs, as well as making an injunction preventing him from repeating the allegations. Hope Not Hate, a campaign group, alleged that Robinson had ignored the injunction and repeated the allegations, providing a dossier of evidence to the Attorney Generals Office, with the Solicitor General then taking legal action. The court heard that Saturdays incident is not currently the subject of contempt of court proceedings, with police saying officers are making further inquiries. The UNs top court found that Israels settlement policies and occupation of the Palestinian territories were in breach of international law. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images The UK should stop arming Israel in order to comply with the historic advisory opinion by the UNs top court that member states should not render aid or assistance to the occupation of the Palestinian territories, a lawyer who represented Palestine has said. In a broad and damning ruling published this month, the international court of justice (ICJ), found that Israels settlement policies and occupation of the territories were in breach of international law. It also said UN member states were under an obligation to neither recognise the occupation as lawful nor abet it. With the UK already under pressure over the sales of arms to Israel during its military offensive in Gaza, which was launched in response to the 7 October attacks and has killed almost 40,000 Palestinians, Prof Philippe Sands KC, a member of Palestines legal team for the case at the ICJ, said the courts opinion had important ramifications for the UK. The most immediate issue is the obligation in the advisory opinion on the states, which includes the United Kingdom, not to aid or assist in the maintenance of the current situation in the occupied territories of the West Bank, including [East] Jerusalem, said Sands. That legal obligation precludes sales of military material which could be used directly or indirectly to assist Israel in maintaining its unlawful occupation of the occupied Palestinian territories. The foreign secretary, David Lammy, has said officials are, on his instructions, carrying out a comprehensive review of Israels compliance with international humanitarian law and has signalled that he is considering banning some arms sales to the country. Related: UN court orders Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territories Sands said the ICJs ruling, as an advisory opinion requested by the UN general assembly, was not directly binding as such on the UK or other individual member states, but would be recognised as an authoritative statement of the law and one that the UN and its specialised agencies will follow as law. Sands, who is a professor of law at University College London and a visiting professor at Harvard law school, said the ruling also affected the legality of imports from Israeli settlements to the UK and other countries. Anything that is produced in the occupied territories, such as food, or that is sold there over the internet, is in principle subject to the international prohibition, if it can be said to aid or assist in the maintenance of the unlawful occupation, he said. Sands said such ICJ opinions were routinely followed by a vote two to three months later at the UN general assembly as to whether they should be adopted and that the UKs stance would be instructive. The UK voted against the ICJ referral and then submitted a 43-page legal opinion opposing it. How does the UK vote on that [the opinion]? said Sands. Will it vote against, or will it abstain? If the government is true to its word on respecting international law, given the nature and detail of the ICJ advisory opinion, you would expect them, at the very least, not to vote against. This could well be an early issue in relations with the United States, which will almost certainly vote against, despite the fact that the US judge was part of the large majority. Among the arguments advanced by Sands during the ICJ hearing in February was that on Palestinian right to self-determination. In its advisory opinion, the court referred to the realisation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, including its right to an independent and sovereign state. While Labour has committed to recognising a Palestinian state, it has not set a timescale and has said this would be as a contribution to a renewed peace process which results in a two-state solution. Sands said: Ultimately, the recognition of a state is a political matter, not a legal obligation, so there is a discretionary element. Nevertheless, the ICJ judges have clearly stated that self-determination means that the Palestinian people have the right to an independent and sovereign state. About 150 states (out of nearly 200) have recognised Palestine as a state, the UK is part of a small and diminishing group that refuses to do so. After the ICJ advisory opinion, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said on 19 July it was considering it carefully before responding and respects the independence of the ICJ. Cyclists riding on Wimbledon Common on Sunday. Temperatures in London are forecast to reach 32C on Tuesday. Photograph: Amer Ghazzal/Rex/Shutterstock UK health officials have issued yellow warnings as a heatwave is forecast to push temperatures above 30C in south-east England. The UK Health Security Agency issued yellow heat health warnings for all of England except the north-east and north-west until Wednesday. The UKHSA said the hot weather may have significant impacts on health and social care, particularly across the south-east and London. Temperatures are forecast to reach 30C in the capital on Monday and 32C on Tuesday, before dipping to 29C on Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures peaked at 27.3C in Charlwood, Surrey, on Sunday as heat started to build up after an unsettled end to last week. The warmer temperatures are a result of a change in weather pattern from lower to higher pressure as the jet stream weakens to the west of the UK. High pressure means the air is sinking from higher in the atmosphere, which brings drier, more settled and sunnier weather. Heatwave criteria is met when a location records at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold, which varies by region; for example, this is 28C in London, and 25C in the north of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Last week, the climate campaign group Round Our Way warned of worryingly hot temperatures affecting children and teachers in classrooms as climate change drives more heatwaves. Its research showed classrooms breached a recommended maximum temperature of 26C during the heatwave in late June. The UKHSA recommends during heatwaves that people look out for vulnerable people, including children and older people, and those with underlying health conditions. People should close curtains on rooms that face the sun, drink plenty of fluids, avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day, and keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm. If someone is still feeling unwell after 30 mins of recovering in the cool and drinking water to combat heat exhaustion, they may have heatstroke and should call 999. Meanwhile the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms for much of the UK. Most of southern England, the Midlands and much of the north of England are covered by the alert, which comes into force at 12am on Thursday and ends at 11.59pm. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop on Thursday and may lead to some disruption, the Met Office said. Iran's supreme leader endorses Pezeshkian as new president Xinhua) 09:15, July 29, 2024 Masoud Pezeshkian attends an electoral campaign in Tehran, Iran, July 3, 2024. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei formally endorsed Pezeshkian as Iran's ninth president on Sunday. (Xinhua/Shadati) TEHRAN, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei formally endorsed Masoud Pezeshkian as Iran's ninth president on Sunday. During a ceremony held in the Iranian capital, Khamenei endorsed a decree issued by Interim President Mohammad Mokhber and handed it over to Pezeshkian, officially approving him as the country's next president. Pezeshkian was announced as Iran's next president on July 6 following his victory in a runoff against Saeed Jalili, a former chief nuclear negotiator. Speaking at the ceremony, Iran's leader said Iran successfully passed the "important test" of the 14th presidential election and has done arduous tasks to uphold a healthy and competitive democratic system. Khamenei called on the new administration to use Iran's rich natural resources and human resources to do great things, calling for greater unity and cooperation among different pillars of the country, including the administration, judiciary, parliament, and armed forces. The leader described the resolution of the economic problems as the country's present top priority, calling for increasing the national currency's value and domestic production, attracting investments, and improving the business atmosphere. He urged for greater reliance on domestic capabilities and the use of international interactions and capacities while warning against tying the fate of domestic problems to foreign issues. As to the country's foreign policy priorities, he called for strengthening ties with supportive states, improving relations with the neighbors, Asian and African countries, and taking an active approach towards global and regional developments. Speaking at the ceremony after receiving his decree, Pezeshkian stressed that serving the country's people should be a priority and high on the agenda of his administration. He added that the Iranian people, by voting in favor of a "change," had assigned a heavy responsibility to him, which had practically begun as of "today." Pezeshkian reaffirmed his commitment to implement general policies introduced by the supreme leader and realize goals set by the country's Islamic establishment and the seventh cultural, social, and economic development plan. He highlighted the necessity to achieve national unity and promote a law-abiding society. Following the endorsement, a sworn-in ceremony was scheduled for the new president on Tuesday. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Gov. Greg Abbott speaks on the north steps of the State Capitol to supporters at a Texas Public Policy Foundation Parent Empowerment rally on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 in Austin. Abbott and his supporters are pushing to have a voucher system, also known as school choice. (Ricardo B. Brazziell /Austin American-Statesman via AP) Ricardo B. Brazziell/Associated Press Most Texans support school vouchers, according to a new study from the University of Houston and Texas Southern University. The survey, released Monday, found that out of 2,257 respondents, 65% of Texans support school vouchers and 69% of Texans support education savings accounts. The survey included respondents from across generations and was not limited to Texans with children under 18. School vouchers, which would give state funding to private schools to help reduce tuition for families who dont want to send their children to a local ISD or charter school, have been a hot-button issue in Texas the past few years. Gov. Greg Abbott has championed this policy and made multiple attempts to pass laws that would allow school vouchers or educational savings accounts in special sessions, but he was blocked by coalitions of Democrats and rural Republicans, who have traditionally opposed vouchers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Education savings accounts were slightly more favored among the survey population than vouchers, even though they arent much different. With an ESA plan, the government would send a certain level of funding directly to families that could be used on private school tuition, but also on tutoring or other educational expenses. Twelve states in the U.S. have at least one universal private-school choice program, according to Education Week. Florida, Arizona, Oklahoma, Alabama, Arkansas and North Carolina are among those states. But some states with voucher programs have faced significant problems. Arizona was the first state to pass a universal, expansive school voucher program, although the state has since fallen into debt. This year, Arizona faced a $1.4 billion budget shortfall and had to make significant budget cuts to critical programs, in part due to voucher overspending, according to ProPublica reporting. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Public education advocates in Texas have remained steadfast against a voucher program, instead asking Abbott to increase the basic allotment, which has not been increased since 2019 and is thousands below the nationwide average. Those who are against vouchers believe that having such a program in place would siphon tax dollars away from public schools and cause schools that may be struggling already due to funding and aftershocks of the pandemic to fall deeper into turmoil. While a majority of Texans surveyed showed some level of support for a voucher or ESA program, the majority also agreed with most of the arguments against vouchers in Texas, providing a chasm between ideological belief and proposed action. Between 62 and 66% of respondents agreed with the following arguments that vouchers: funnel money away from public schools; provide funding to private schools with limited accountability and government oversight; and fail to accommodate special needs students, whom private schools are not required to accept. And just over half of the respondents agreed that school vouchers violate the separation of church and state, by using tax dollars to subsidize private schools, including religious institutions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mark Jones, political science professor at Rice University and co-author of this study, said for many families, it comes to a cost-benefit analysis, particularly among the Black survey respondents, who were significantly more likely to support vouchers and agree with their pitfalls than white respondents. If you believe that the current system is broken and unlikely to be fixed anytime soon, then youre going to be more willing, in spite of the critiques of vouchers, to still support them, Jones said. But it illuminated a startling truth among high minority public schools in Texas. One of the critiques thats more effective in suburban districts is that if school vouchers are adopted, itll reduce the quality of our public schools, Jones said. And the response for many of the African American Texans is: How much worse can it really get? Advertisement Article continues below this ad When it came down to it, over 70% of Black respondents who supported vouchers agreed with the problems that would arise if the program passed, but Jones said for many families and community members, the downsides werent fatal flaws. The survey also asked those on opposite sides of the political spectrum for their opinion. While vouchers are traditionally supported by Republicans, Democrats surveyed were generally in favor of school vouchers, despite the partys strong opposition to the issue. According to the survey, 73% of Republicans would support vouchers, compared to 55% of Democrats. But only 57% of Republicans would support vouchers if they were only offered to low-income families, while slightly more Democrats would be in favor, at 60%. That is not the case for white Democrats, though, which was the only ethnicity/partisan subgroup with less than half supporting vouchers for all families. On the flipside, white independents were the only ethnicity/partisan subgroup with less than half supporting vouchers for only low-income families. All other ethnicity/partisan subgroups had more than half of respondents supporting vouchers for all families and low-income families. One finding that was somewhat surprising for the research team was that support for vouchers was stronger in this survey than it was in a survey around the same time last year, Jones said. He credits some of this to increased awareness of vouchers, from media coverage to political discussions about the concept during the primaries earlier this year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But he was also surprised that Republicans strongly supported vouchers for all families, but that support waned when limited to only low-income families. Republicans primarily want the sort of full-throated voucher, not one thats sort of limited, targeted and only would benefit a small segment of the population, he said. But that raises a concern with what kind of voucher program the governor may try to bring to the table in 2025. Do Republicans pursue the legislation that they pursued in 2023 which was limited almost exclusively to low-income families? Jones asked. Or do they go for a broader legislation that benefits a larger share of the population and takes them further away from where Democrats are comfortable going? This year, however, Abbott may not need to pander to Democrats and rural Republicans who might support vouchers if limited to low-income families. Abbott helped push out many legislators during the primaries who were against the voucher proposal he made in 2023 and put pro-voucher legislators in their place on the Nov. 5 ballot. Abbott has said he has the votes to pass legislation in the upcoming legislative session beginning in January 2025, and Jones agreed. Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, center-left, and Maria Corina Machado make a statement to media the day after the presidential elections, in Caracas, Venezuela, on Monday. Photograph: Henry Chirinos/EPA Nicolas Maduros claim of victory in Venezuelas presidential election has brought the South American country to a hazardous standoff, with his thwarted opponents accusing him of rigging the election to remain in power, and many leaders in the region and beyond questioning the veracity and transparency of the vote. Late on Monday, street protests were reported across the capital and all around the country, including in the states of Falcon, where demonstrators were filmed tearing down a statue of Hugo Chavez, and Portuguesa, where footage showed a group vandalizing a propaganda billboard featuring a photograph of Maduro and a slogan promising More Changes and Transformation. Riot police clashed with protestors and fired teargas at various locations. Related: Venezuela election: Maduro declared winner by government-controlled authority The results, which followed an election described by independent observers as the most arbitrary in recent years even by the standards of the authoritarian regime founded by Maduros mentor and predecessor, Hugo Chavez appeared to have dashed opposition hopes of ending a quarter of a century of chavista rule and economic turmoil. After a six-hour delay in releasing the results prompted international concern, the government-controlled electoral authority claimed Maduro had won with 51.21% of votes compared with 44.2% for his rival, the former diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. The council said that with about 80% of votes counted, Maduro had secured more than 5m compared with Gonzalezs 4.4m. Authorities delayed releasing the results from each of Venezuelas 30,000 polling stations, saying only that they would be released in the coming hours. On Monday morning, the electoral authority officially confirmed Maduro as the victor. I assume the mandate of the people to be their president and lead our country towards peace and prosperity, Maduro told an audience of allies, calling the result irreversible. Critics blame Maduro, 61, for leading Venezuela into a crippling economic and social crisis, and turning the country into an increasingly repressive state where political opponents are routinely jailed and tortured. Addressing supporters in the capital, Caracas, Maduro dedicated his victory to Chavez, who anointed him as his successor shortly before his death in 2013. Long live Chavez. Chavez is alive! Maduro shouted. He added: I am Nicolas Maduro Moros the re-elected president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and I will defend our democracy, our law and our people. But the opposition camp was quick to dispute the results. The Venezuelans and the entire world know what happened, Gonzalez said in his first remarks. The opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado who had thrown her weight behind Gonzalezs campaign after being banned from running rejected the result, claiming the opposition had won in every single state. We won, and everybody knows it, she said. We havent just defeated them politically and morally, today we defeated them with votes, Machado told journalists, claiming Gonzalez should be considered the countrys president-elect. Edison Research, which conducts high-profile election polling in the US and other countries, published an exit poll showing Gonzalez had won 65% of the vote, while Maduro won 31%. The official results are silly, said Edisons executive vice-president, Rob Farbman, adding it stood by the results of its survey. Edisons exit poll was conducted nationwide with preliminary data from 6,846 voters interviewed at 100 polling locations. Local firm Meganalisis predicted a 65% vote for Gonzalez and just under 14% for Maduro. The Carter Center, which sent a team of electoral observers for the vote, called on the electoral authority to immediately publish the complete results by polling station. Although Maduros allies in countries such as Cuba, Bolivia and Honduras congratulated him on his victory, key players including the US, Spain and the EU expressed deep reservations about the election and its results. Later on Monday, Venezuela announced the expulsion of all diplomats from Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, Panama, the Dominican Republic and Uruguay, and said it would withdraw its own representatives from those countries. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, said Washington had serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people. He said the international community was watching the vote very closely and would react accordingly. Its critical that every vote be counted fairly and transparently, that election officials immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay, and that the electoral authorities publish the detailed tabulation of votes, said Blinken. Spains foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, also called on the electoral authority to release voting information in the interests of respecting the democratic will of the Venezuelan people. The people of Venezuela yesterday voted democratically and in very large numbers, Albares told Spains Cadena Ser radio on Monday morning. We want total transparency, and thats why were asking for the results to be published, polling station by polling station. We dont have a candidate we just want a guarantee of transparency. The publication of polling station information is key so that the results can be verified. Josep Borrell, the EUs most senior diplomat, said the will of the Venezuelan people had to be respected, adding: Ensuring full transparency in the electoral process, including detailed counting of votes and access to voting records at polling stations, is vital. Many Latin American leaders, including Chiles leftist president, Gabriel Boric, were far blunter in their assessment of Sundays vote. Maduros regime must understand that the results are hard to believe, Boric wrote on X. The international community and, above all, the Venezuelan people including the millions of Venezuelans in exile demand total transparency. Chile, he added, will not recognise any result that is not verifiable. Panamas president Jose Raul Mulino said his country was putting relations with Venezuela on hold and would withdraw diplomatic staff from Caracas until a full review of the result is conducted. Related: To be reunited would be a dream: Venezuelan exiles fate hangs on vote Others were more cautious. Mexicos leftwing president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he would only recognize a winner only after results were reported fully. Were going to wait until they finishing counting the votes, Lopez Obrador told reporters. Brazil whose president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, said recently he had been frightened by Maduros warnings of a bloodbath if he lost the vote hailed a peaceful election day in Venezuela but said it was keeping a close eye on the vote count. Celso Amorim, a former foreign minister who is now Lulas chief diplomatic adviser, said the Brazilian government would only comment on the results after reviewing the records. Amorim, who observed Sundays vote, said that while he was still familiarising himself with what happened, the main issue is transparency. The [Brazilian] government continues to monitor the situation until we have the necessary data to make an informed decision [on whether or not to recognise the results], as with any election, he said in an interview with the Brazilian newspaper O Globo. It must be transparent. Im not necessarily questioning what is being said, but the government was supposed to provide the records from which this number is derived, and that has not yet happened. Gonzalezs campaign had generated a rare wave of optimism among millions of disillusioned citizens after a decade during which the economy of the country with the worlds largest oil reserves contracted by 80% and nearly 8 million people almost a third of Venezuelas population fled abroad. Nicolas Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuelas presidential election by the government-controlled electoral authority a result that appeared to dash opposition hopes of ending his authoritarian, socialist rule. It was immediately challenged by rivals and several governments in the region and beyond. After a six-hour delay in releasing the results of Sundays poll prompted international concern, Venezuelas electoral council claimed Maduro had won with 51.21% of votes compared with 44.2% for his rival, the former diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. Related: Venezuela: fears of unfair election grow as opposition security chief arrested The council said that with about 80% of votes counted, Maduro had secured more than 5m compared with Gonzalezs 4.4m. Independent observers had described the election as the most arbitrary in recent years, even by the standards of an authoritarian regime that started with Maduros mentor and predecessor, Hugo Chavez. Critics blame Maduro for leading Venezuela into a crippling economic and social crisis, as well as turning the country into an increasingly repressive state where political opponents are routinely jailed and tortured. Gonzalezs campaign had generated a rare wave of optimism among millions of disillusioned citizens after a decade during which the economy of the country with the worlds largest oil reserves contracted by 80% and nearly 8 million people almost a third of Venezuelas population fled abroad. Maduro dedicated his win to Chavez, who anointed Maduro as his successor shortly before his death in 2013. Long live Chavez. Chavez is alive! Maduro shouted. Addressing supporters in the capital, Caracas, the 61-year-old leader said: I am Nicolas Maduro Moros the re-elected president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and I will defend our democracy, our law and our people. The opposition camp was quick to dispute the results. The Venezuelans and the entire world know what happened, Gonzalez said in his first remarks. The opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado who had thrown her weight behind Gonzalezs campaign after being banned from running rejected the result, claiming the opposition had won in every single state. We won and everybody knows it, she said. We havent just defeated them politically and morally, today we defeated them with votes, Machado told journalists, claiming Gonzalez should be considered the countrys president-elect. Edison Research, which conducts high-profile election polling in the US and other countries, published an exit poll showing Gonzalez had won 65% of the vote, while Maduro won 31%. The official results are silly, said Edisons executive vice-president, Rob Farbman, adding it stood by the results of its survey. Edisons exit poll was conducted nationwide with preliminary data from 6,846 voters interviewed at 100 polling locations. Local firm Meganalisis predicted a 65% vote for Gonzalez and just under 14% for Maduro. Although the result was celebrated by Maduros regional allies, the US and others expressed concerns that the vote may have been compromised. The Cuban leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez, said the historic victory was a triumph of the dignity and courage of the Venezuelan people, while Bolivias leftwing leader, Luis Arce, noted the election had been held on what would have been Chavezs 70th birthday. What a great way to remember the Comandante Hugo Chavez, Arce tweeted. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, said his government had serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people. Its critical that every vote be counted fairly and transparently, that election officials immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay, and that the electoral authorities publish the detailed tabulation of votes. The international community is watching this very closely and will respond accordingly, he said. Spains foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, who said his government wanted to see a breakdown of the results before recognising Maduros win. The people of Venezuela yesterday voted democratically and in very large numbers, Albares told Spains Cadena Ser radio on Monday morning. We want total transparency and thats why were asking for the results to be published, polling station by polling station. We dont have a candidate we just want a guarantee of transparency. The publication of polling station information is key so that the results can be verified. Chiles president, Gabriel Boric, tweeted: Maduros regime must understand that the results it has published are hard to believe Chile will not recognise any result that is not verifiable. Ecuadors president, Daniel Noboa who accused Maduro of trying to cling to power and snatching away the hope of millions of Venezuelans called for the permanent council of the Organization of American States to meet to discuss the situation in Venezuela. The result was a bitter blow to Venezuelas notoriously fractured opposition, which had united around the unlikely candidacy of Gonzalez a 74-year-old former ambassador and political neophyte hoping he could help lead the country out of one of the worst peacetime economic collapses in modern history. In an interview with the BBC on the eve of the election, Machado claimed the country was approaching a huge, unique, epic event that will change not only the history of Venezuela but also the whole region. The system is cracking for the first time in 25 years, Machado claimed of chavismo, predicting a huge, historic turnout that would sweep Maduro from power. Opposition supporters turned out in large numbers across the country, hoping to vote Maduro out of power. I voted for Edmundo Gonzalez because I believe he is the only hope of change that we have here, said Anabella Donzella, a 23-year-old economics student as she cast her vote in El Marques, a middle-class area of Caracas. Maduro, who was elected after Chavezs death from cancer and returned to office in a widely criticised 2018 election boycotted by the opposition, appeared confident as he visited his late leaders tomb in Caracas to lay a wreath before dawn on Sunday. Wearing a pink guayabera and flanked by the first lady, Cilia Flores, Maduro likened the election to one of the most famous military showdowns in Venezuelas struggle for independence from Spain. This is our battle of Carabobo and we are heading straight for victory, he said, dedicating his campaign to Chavez, under whom he served as foreign minister and vice-president. Hard-Right Israeli MPs stormed a detention centre on Tuesday in protest at the arrest of nine soldiers over the alleged abuse of a Palestinian inmate. The MPs from Benjamin Netanyahus ruling coalition broke through the gate of Sde Teiman facility, in the Negev desert, alongside dozens of activists. The detention site, run by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), has been at the centre of controversy in recent months after reports of severe physical abuse of Palestinian prisoners since Oct 7. Amihai Ben-Eliyahu, the minister of heritage from the Jewish Power party, and Zvu Sukkot, from the Religious Zionist Party, took part in the crowds forced entry into the base. The people of Israel live, protesters chanted as they broke through the gate. Earlier in the day, masked military police clashed with some of the suspected soldiers, who had barricaded the facility and refused to submit to arrest. Government ministers and politicians lashed out at the military police for arresting the soldiers. Itamar Ben-Gvir, the national security minister, said the arrest of Israels best heroes was nothing less than shameful. Mr Ben-Gvir called on the defence establishment to support the soldiers and learn from the prison service: light treatment of terrorists is over. Soldiers need to have our full support. Miri Regev, the transport minister, echoed Mr Ben-Gvir, calling the arrest of soldiers a dangerous step in wartime and adding: The military justice system must focus on protecting our soldiers, not pleasing our enemies. Yuli Edelstein, head of the Israeli parliaments foreign affairs and defence committee, called for an urgent meeting to discuss the incident at the detention centre. I will not allow scenes such as were seen today at the Sde Teiman base. A situation where masked military police raid an IDF base is unacceptable to me and I will not allow it to happen again, he said. Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, Israels chief of army staff, said that soldiers were securing the base as he condemned the demonstrators. The break-in at the Sde Teiman base is extremely serious and against the law, he said. Breaking into a military base and disturbing the order there is severe behaviour that is not acceptable in any way. Protestors outside the Sde Teiman detention centre in the Negev desert - REUTERS/Jill Gralow We are in the midst of a war, and actions of this type endanger the security of the state. Yair Lapid, the opposition leader, lashed out at the activists and politicians who broke into the facility, calling their actions despicable and dangerous. The politicians who abandoned the hostages, abandoned security and destroyed Israeli society are now destroying the chain of command, Mr Lapid added. In May, CNN reported that Palestinians arrested in Gaza were facing brutal conditions at the camp, some of whom were blindfolded and beaten. A New York Times investigation also found that about 1,200 Palestinian civilians had been held at the camp without the ability to plead their cases to a judge for up to 75 days. The Israeli government announced last month that it would begin reducing the number of inmates held at the camp. Still from video clip of autistic boy being attacked - CPS/SWNS A teaching assistant was caught on CCTV violently attacking an 11-year-old autistic boy in a school playground. The shocking video footage shows William Kevin Clifford, 61, beating Tobie Orlowski, a disabled schoolboy, for 20 minutes at Tettenhall Wood School in Wolverhampton in April last year. Clifford admitted child cruelty and abuse of trust while in a position of trust, but was spared jail at Wolverhampton Crown Court earlier this month after suffering anxiety during the trial. The video shows Clifford pushing over Tobie and forcing his face to the ground at the school. He then appears to punch and kick Tobie while he sits on the ground as other children play nearby. Tobie tried to crawl away but the teaching assistant followed him, and kneed him in the back as he was crouching behind a small gate in the playground. His mother, Charlotte, has now called for all special schools to have CCTV. She told the BBC: To see that man attack him in a place he thought was safe it was just horrendous. I was devastated, I was horrified. For the life of me I cannot understand what would make a person want to do that. Formidable team of staff If that security camera had not picked it up, then we would never have known what had happened to Tobie. She added: If this could happen in Tobies school, with a formidable team of staff, it can happen anywhere. We are not calling for CCTV in all schools, only settings where there are vulnerable children. So many of our children cant speak, they cant tell us what happened. Theyre not credible witnesses. If something has happened, theres nothing, theres no cameras, theres no footage, no evidence. We cannot get justice without CCTV. Charlotte said Tobies whole world had changed and he now struggled to trust anyone but he was still very resilient despite what happened. She added: Im so proud of him, hes back in the same school, with his trusted adults who I know and trust too. Hes doing so well, despite what that man did to him. Samantha Pearson, Charlottes cousin, criticised the sentence handed down to Clifford after the hearing. She said: He didnt receive anything that could be even slightly classed as appropriate punishment. Total collapse in trust Charlotte collected Tobie from school as usual. She did notice his anxiety seemed heightened. But as he is totally non-verbal, Tobie couldnt, and will never be able to, tell his mommy what was wrong. By the time Charlotte got home with Tobie, she was called by the school head to be informed that Tobie had in fact been cruelly attacked that day by a teaching assistant. Samantha added: That day marked a total collapse in any trust and settled nature that Tobie had. Tobie had no say in the suffering he faced, and still does. The school has worked tirelessly with Tobie and continues to support Charlotte and Tobie to make him feel its one of his safe places again. The judge deemed Clifford had already suffered for his actions, and spared him a lengthy jail term. Passing sentencing, the judge said: William Kevin Clifford has several mitigating factors and a huge amount of suffering whilst waiting for this case to be concluded, including anxiety, weight gain and the inability to secure any employment. Ross Ashcroft, the head teacher of Tettenhall Wood School, said: Following the recent prosecution and subsequent sentence of William Kevin Clifford, we only wish to state that the person in question has not been in school since the day that the incident occurred and his employment was subsequently terminated. The school has followed all processes correctly in dealing with this matter with childrens safety and wellbeing always at the heart of everything we do. Clifford was handed a nine-month suspended jail sentence and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. Women and girls in Sudan have been subjected to rape and forced marriage in more than 15 months of fighting - MSF/Mohamed Zakaria/Handout via REUTERS Warring parties tearing Sudan apart in a savage civil war are committing widespread sexual violence against women and even children, human rights researchers have found. Women and girls in Sudan have been subjected to rape and forced marriage in more than 15 months of fighting which have turned the country into one of the worlds most severe humanitarian disasters. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) group was particularly notorious for such attacks, though incidents were also attributed to its adversaries in the Sudanese army, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). Laetitia Bader, the deputy Africa director at the watchdog, said: The Rapid Support Forces have raped, gang-raped, and forced into marriage countless women and girls in residential areas in Sudans capital. The armed group has terrorised women and girls and both warring parties have blocked them from getting aid and support services, compounding the harm they face and leaving them to feel that nowhere is safe. RSF fighters have kept women and girls in conditions that could amount to sexual slavery, the body said. Researchers for the 88-page report Khartoum is Not Safe for Women Anymore! interviewed medics, counsellors and social workers who had treated more than 250 victims of sexual violence during the war. Women as old as 60 and children as young as nine had been attacked. I have slept with a knife under my pillow for months in fear from the raids that lead to rape by RSF, a 20-year-old woman living in an area controlled by the RSF said. Since this war started, it is not safe anymore to be a woman living in Khartoum under RSF. Women as old as 60 and children as young as nine had been attacked, the report said - AFP via Getty Images At least four women had died from injuries during the attacks and many had serious wounds. Many also said they had depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, fear, sleeplessness and other mental anguish. I spoke to a survivor who was raped and had just discovered she was three months pregnant, a psychiatrist said. She was clearly traumatised and shivering, afraid of how her family would react. She said to me, If they discover my situation, they will kill me. Sudan became engulfed in war from April 2023, when a long-simmering rivalry between the de-facto president, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and his deputy, Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagaloa, known as Hemedti, flared into civil war. Fighting between the army and Hemdetis Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia has turned much of the country of nearly 50 million into a conflict zone. The war has brought a humanitarian catastrophe. Some 11m have fled their homes, either to elsewhere in the country, or to neighbours such as Chad or South Sudan. Soaring prices, disrupted markets and devastated agricultural production mean millions are short of food, or on the cusp of famine. Diplomatic attempts to halt the fighting have since been defeated by Sudans descent into a chaotic geopolitical chessboard of competing regional powers pursuing murky agendas. Russia, Iran, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the Saudis and even Ukraine are all backing sides. The UAE is accused of heavily backing the RSF, which it denies. HRW also accused both warring parties of blocking survivors of sexual violence from access to critical emergency health care. The military had willfully restricted shipments of humanitarian supplies to RSF-controlled areas, including medical supplies and aid workers since October last year. The RSF, meanwhile, had pillaged medical supplies and occupied medical facilities, it said. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Eric Adams speaks during a news conference on 5 April 2024 in New York, New York. Photograph: Brittainy Newman/AP New York City mayor Eric Adams declared a state of emergency in local jails over the weekend to prevent them from enacting a new law limiting solitary confinement in the lock-ups. The law was scheduled to take effect Sunday after at least 26 people had died in New York City jails since January 2022. Adams emergency declaration came Saturday. The law in question capped solitary confinement at four hours and mandated that detained people receive at least 14 hours outside their cells in shared spaces daily. The law also limits the use of handcuffs and restraints on incarcerated people but Adams order paused the implementation of those measures. New York City council members passed the law in January 2024, overriding a veto from Adams. A report released by the Center for Justice at Columbia University in December 2023 found that although the New York City corrections department reduced solitary or de-escalation confinement to six hours, detained people were still being held in that setting for much longer, including days at a time. On any given day, the department in charge of New York Citys jails put more than 180 people in solitary confinement. Adams declaration order argues the law includes unprecedented provisions regarding the management of incarcerated individuals following serious acts of violence and eliminates necessary discretion by correctional management in a manner that could actually result in an increased risk of harm to other incarcerated individuals and staff. The order claims the new law would put correctional officers and prisoners at risk and it says the citys jails do not have the staffing and resources to implement the legislation. The federal monitor overseeing reforms at New York Citys Rikers Island jail, Steve Martin, has opposed the solitary confinement limits, saying the municipal correctional department is too dysfunctional to implement it. There are about 6,000 people detained at Rikers. Meanwhile, New York City public advocate, Jumaane Williams, criticized Adams order, accusing the mayor of misinformation and attempting to cover up the crisis at Rikers Island. This is a shameful tactic, another desperate abuse of power by this administration to try [to] ignore laws it opposes, Williams said in a statement. Misusing a state of emergency is dangerous, especially from a mayor who claims to care about public safety. Any state of emergency on Rikers continues to be caused by an administration that has refused to engage with partners to meaningfully improve conditions. He also vowed to use all his power to force Adams to implement the law. The New York City council recently passed a resolution to grant its speaker, Adrienne Adams, authority to take legal action against Adams and his administration to ensure they implement the law, setting up possible litigation. Each day mayor Adams administration shows how little respect it has for the laws and democracy, city council spokesperson Shirley Limongi said in a statement. It sets more hypocritical double standards for complying with the law that leave New Yorkers worse off. In this case, our city and everyone in its dysfunctional and dangerous jail system, including staff, are left less safe. The reality is that the law already included broad safety exemptions that make this emergency order unnecessary and another example of mayor Adams overusing executive orders without justification. Two police officers sacked for lying after saying that they could smell cannabis during a stop and search of British athlete Bianca Williams and her partner will have an appeal heard in October. Former Met Pcs Jonathan Clapham and Sam Franks were dismissed in October last year after a disciplinary panel found they had lied about smelling the drug when they pulled over Olympic sprinter Ricardo Dos Santos and his partner Williams on July 4 2020. The police followed the athletes as they drove back from training to their west London home with their baby son, then three months old, in the back seat of their Mercedes. Officers handcuffed the couple and they were searched on suspicion of having drugs and weapons but nothing was found. A still from police body-worn footage of the stop (Independent Office for Police Conduct/PA) The force came under heavy criticism after footage of the stop was posted on social media, showing a distressed Williams who was concerned about being separated from her baby. Misconduct panel chairwoman Chiew Yin Jones said Clapham and Franks conduct had breached standards of professional behaviour in respect of honesty and integrity and this amounted to gross misconduct. They were then sacked. After the hearing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward said: While the panel accepted the officers version of events in most matters, including that their decisions were not motivated by ethnicity, it found that PC Clapham and PC Franks lied about smelling drugs on stopping the vehicle. Honesty and integrity are at the core of policing and, as the panel has concluded, there can be no place in the Met for officers who do not uphold these values. In the wake of their dismissal, an online appeal raised more than 150,000 for the officers. The Police Appeals Tribunal, which hears appeals against findings of gross misconduct involving police officers, will hear their case on October 3 and 4. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said there was a 22 billion black hole in the public finances as she accused the Tories of covering up the scale of the problems. In a statement to Parliament she set out immediate action to address the issues she said had been uncovered by the audit ordered by Labour when it took office. She told MPs: Before the election, I said that we would face the worst inheritance since the Second World War. The Conservatives left us with the worst inheritance since the Second World War. Today I will set out how this new Labour government will fix the foundations of our economy, so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of our country better off. Rachel Reeves (@RachelReevesMP) July 29, 2024 Taxes at a 70-year high, debt through the roof, an economy only just coming out of recession. I knew all of these things. I was honest about them during the campaign. But, she added there were things the Tories had covered up from the country. She said there was a 22 billion hole in the public finances now, not in the future, but now. In a statement to Parliament the Chancellor said: A Budget on October 30 will involve difficult decisions on spending, welfare and tax. The projected overspend by the previous Tory government on the asylum system, including the failed Rwanda plan, was more than 6.4 billion for this year alone. Winter fuel payments will be restricted to those on pension credits or other means-tested benefits. Ministers will accept in full the recommendations of the independent pay review bodies, saying this is the right decision for the people who work in, and most importantly, the people who use our public services. Meeting the recommendations means a 9 billion unfunded overspend, which she has asked Government departments to help fund by finding savings of at least 3 billion including by stopping non-essential spending on consultancy and communications. The Government has agreed a pay offer to junior doctors, the Chancellor has confirmed, amid reports this would be more than 20% over two years. Rishi Sunaks Advanced British Standard will be scrapped, as the former prime minister didnt put aside a single penny to pay for it. Adult social care charging reforms delayed by the Tories will not be taken forward, saving more than 1 billion by the end of next year. Right-wing activist Tommy Robinson was arrested for frustration of police counter-terrorism powers after he was stopped at a port in Kent. Kent Police did not identify the political campaigner, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, but confirmed that a 41-year-old had been arrested on Sunday. The force said: On Sunday July 28 2024, a 41-year-old man was detained by Kent Police officers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 at the Channel Tunnel in Folkestone. Protesters gathered outside Downing Street in London after Robinson was arrested (James Manning/PA) He was subsequently arrested for frustration of a schedule 7 examination. He has since been released on bail while inquiries are ongoing. Under schedule seven of the Terrorism Act, police are allowed to stop anyone passing through a UK port to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. The person who is detained can be held for up to six hours, is legally obliged to answer questions and must provide the password or Pin for electronic devices, or be held to have committed a criminal offence if they refuse. In an audio clip posted on Robinsons X account, formerly Twitter, he is heard telling his ex-wife that officers have demanded the PIN code for his phone. ADMIN POST PLAY THE AUDIO FILE BELOW I can now confirm that Tommy has actually been released, he is on bail, and the police have taken his phone. I want thank everyone (as does Tommy) who have been out protesting for him today, it absolutely made a difference. Tommy has pic.twitter.com/u5yX819Cdl Tommy Robinson (@TRobinsonNewEra) July 28, 2024 Robinson says he objected to the request because there would be legally privileged information on his phone, relating to an ongoing High Court case, and interviews that he has carried out relating to a documentary that he is making. The High Court case relates to Jamal Hijazi, who was a schoolboy when he was assaulted at Almondbury Community School in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, in October 2018. Syrian refugee Mr Hijazi successfully sued Robinson in 2021 after he made false claims, including about Mr Hijazi attacking girls in his school. The court also ordered an injunction preventing Mr Robinson from repeating the allegations he made against the then-teenager. The 41-year-old, who appeared at a rally of his supporters in central London on Saturday, posted a one-hour 45-minute film on X about the case, having already been accused of breaching the court order. In June this year, the Attorney Generals Office (AGO) filed papers to begin potential contempt proceedings against Robinson over allegations he breached the court order from 2021. He is due to appear at the High Court in London for a directions hearing in that case on Monday. Henry Cavill as Gus March-Phillipps in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. (Prime Video/Alamy) (Collection Christophel, Collection Christophel) Guy Ritchie is back with a big new action-comedy movie in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, though it is missing out on UK cinemas yet again. And unlike some of Ritchie's more outlandish cinematic adventures, this one is based on a true story. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare follows a group of British soldiers on a black ops mission to sabotage an Italian ship helping to supply the Nazis with vital materials for U-boats. At this time, the British navy was being absolutely battered as a result of the threat posed by German submarines. The film stars Henry Cavill as special ops legend Gus March-Phillipps, alongside Reacher leading man Alan Ritchson and former Alex Rider star Alex Pettyfer. The ensemble cast also includes the likes of Cary Elwes and Henry Golding. But how much of what happens on screen is actually true? Surprisingly, quite a lot of it. What is the true story of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare? Henry Cavill as Gus March-Phillipps in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. (Prime Video/Alamy) (Collection Christophel, Collection Christophel) Formed in 1941, the Small Scale Raiding Force was a small unit of around 55 soldiers commanded by Major Gus March-Phillipps. Its first ever field operation was Operation Postmaster, which just so happens to be the inspiration for Ritchie's film, with the screenplay based on author and filmmaker Damien Lewis's book about special forces operations during the Second World War. Read more: Guy Richies The Ministry for Ungentlemanly Warfare is a riot (City AM) Operation Postmaster involved members of the SSRF travelling to French-speaking parts of Africa, where intelligence suggested German forces were carrying out refuelling and supply work for the U-boats. A five-man crew commanded by March-Phillipps left Poole Harbour in Dorset in a yacht trawler, heading for West Africa. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is Guy Ritchie's latest action movie. (Prime Video/Alamy) (Collection Christophel, Collection Christophel) The crew failed to find submarine bases, but did discover a series of ships that they suspected were secretly carrying arms or ammunition. Eventually, they received approval for a raid that concluded with them towing a German tugboat and an Italian merchant vessel away to Lagos, helping to cut off Nazi supply lines. In the movie, the original plan is to blow up the boats, but the real operation always aimed to tow them away. As you might be able to guess, it's also the case that the real raid was significantly less bloody than the one portrayed in Ritchie's film. The real unit met comparatively little resistance in stealing the boats. In reality, it took several months to secure final approval for the operation from the Foreign Office as a result of it involving a journey into Spanish waters around the island of Fernando Po. This was seen as compromising Spain's neutrality in the war. Rory Kinnear as Winston Churchill in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. (Prime Video/Alamy) (Collection Christophel, Collection Christophel) The movie version of the story sees Winston Churchill played by Rory Kinnear personally intervene in favour of the operatives after the operation concludes, recruiting them to the titular Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. In reality, many of the men were ultimately rewarded, despite the diplomatic uproar that followed. March-Phillipps was killed in action during the SSRF's Operation Aquatint in September 1942. He had previously been awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his work on Operation Postmaster. Read more: Gary Oldman would like to reprise Sir Winston Churchill role (PA Media) What is true is that March-Phillipps was a big inspiration on someone else who was serving during the Second World War Ian Fleming. The author would use March-Phillipps and Operation Postmaster as a major inspiration for his James Bond novels. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is streaming now on Prime Video. Caroline Wilburn is a breaking news reporter for the Houston Chronicle. A May graduate of Texas A&M University, Caroline worked as an election stringer for the Associated Press and as a breaking news fellow at the Texas Tribune. At the Tribune, she got a crash course in interpreting data, distilling complicated policy and following statewide trends on a tight deadline. Shes also a skilled video editor and podcast producer. She won a first-place award for audio news production at the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. VAT will be charged on private school fees from January, the Government has confirmed. The new Labour government is pushing ahead with its plans to remove the VAT exemption and business rates relief for private schools to enable funding for 6,500 new teachers in state schools. Treasury minister James Murray said the Government will apply 20% VAT to private schools in the UK from January 1 and it will also apply to pre-payments of fees for terms starting in the new year. He said the changes will not impact pupils with the most acute special educational needs where their needs can only be met in private schools. It comes amid concerns that removing the VAT exemption could lead to an exodus of students into the state school system amid private school fee rises. Private schools are worried the policy will have a major impact on students and staff and some schools may face closure, a headteachers union said. The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) warned that introducing the change during the middle of an academic year could cause additional disruption. Currently, independent schools do not have to charge 20% VAT on their fees because there is an exemption for the supply of education. In a written ministerial statement on Monday, Mr Murray, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, also said the Government plans to remove private schools eligibility for charitable rates relief under business rates in England from April. But he added that the Government will consider how to address the possible impact of these changes in cases where private school provision has been specified for pupils through an education, health and care plan (EHCP), which help support children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send). Mr Murray said: The Government is committed to addressing unfairness in the tax system and raising revenue for public services by closing loopholes and tackling tax avoidance. The Government is setting out next steps on its priority tax commitments to allow for technical consultation and provide taxpayers with certainty ahead of their final confirmation at Budget. Sara Tanton, deputy director of policy at the ASCL, said: Independent schools are concerned that this policy will have a major impact on students and staff and that some schools are even likely to face closure. Its imperative that this policy is fully modelled and consulted upon to understand the implications, and there is not long to do this before January. There are also concerns that introducing this change during the middle of an academic year is going to cause additional disruption. Its important to remember that this policy is not itself going to address the funding crisis facing schools and colleges. That is going to require a substantial increase in core funding. Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), said: Thousands of children face having their education disrupted as a result of this unprecedented tax. It will increase pressure on state schools and on an already-stretched Send system, as well as on faith provision, on specialist arts education and on military families. The draft legislation was published before consultation with independent schools. We will be working over the coming months to engage the Government on the consequences of this policy on schools, families and communities it remains our belief that the best way to improve education for all is for schools to work together, not to tax education. An 11-year-old Virginia boy has been arrested and charged with making more than 20 bomb or shooting threats to a series of Florida schools. Flagler County Sherriffs Department officials said the arrest followed a 10-week investigation into the threats, which were made over a 9-day period in May. This kids behavior was escalating and becoming more dangerous. Im glad we got him before he escalated out of control and hurt someone, Flagler County Sherriff Rick Staly said in a statement on July 25. According to officials, Flagler County emergency services received a bomb threat on May 14 directed towards Buddy Taylor Middle School. Over the next nine days, 20 more calls were made towards Buddy Taylor and four other Flagler County schools First Baptist Christian Academy, Flagler Palm Coast High School, Old Kings Elementary School, and Suncoast Community School. The calls referenced bombs had been planted, threatened to commit mass shootings, and claimed to have shot students and teachers at the schools. What is swatting? Why politicians are being targeted by the potentially deadly stunt. Law enforcement officials tracked the calls to a home in Virginia, where the 11-year-old admitted to placing the swatting type calls to Florida, as well as a similar threat made to the Maryland State House. The child told police that he used methods he had learned online to try and hide his identity and that he had devised the script for the calls alone. The child faces 28 felony and 14 misdemeanor charges and is currently being held in a juvenile detention facility in Virginia while transportation to Florida is arranged. Swatting Swatting is the practice of making phony calls with threats of violence such as a bomb, a hostage situation, or a shooting to trigger a law enforcement response. The targets of these calls have ranged from schools and businesses to politicians as well as individuals. According to the Educators Safety Network, a false report of an active shooter accounted for 64% of all reported violent incidents in American schools during the 2022-2023 school year. That organization also reported that false reports have increased 546% from the 2018-2019 school year, with 446 incidents being reported. Flagler County officials noted that the 11-year-old was the second child to be arrested for making threats towards local schools this year. A 13-year-old was arrested by the Daytona Beach Police Department and Volusia County Sherriffs Office in May for calling the front desk of Buddy Taylor Middle School and making a bomb threat in what was described by law enforcement officials as a copycat incident. Max Hauptman is a Trending Reporter for USA TODAY. He can be reached at MHauptman@gannett.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 11-year-old accused of swatting in Florida school bomb threats Alma Johnson Powell, the wife of the late Secretary of State Colin Powell, has died. She was 86. Her death was confirmed by the former diplomats chief of staff and family spokesperson, Peggy Cifrino. (Powell) was the grounding force of our family, the couples three children, Michael, Linda and Annemarie, said in a statement provided to CNN. During childhoods marked by constant moving to new homes, we always felt secure, because home was wherever she stood. She was an exemplary role model for us and for the world. She served our country, alongside our father, with intelligence and grace. We will miss her terribly but take comfort in the fact that she had a life so well-lived and is reunited with our father. The Powells were married for nearly 60 years, and Alma was by her husbands side during his remarkable and historic military career. The two met on a blind date in 1961 shortly before he was deployed to Vietnam as a military adviser, and he later rose to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff beginning under President George H.W. Bush and secretary of state during George W. Bushs administration. Four months after the Powells were married, he was sent to Vietnam, leaving Alma to navigate the first few years of her life as a newlywed alone, which she later called the defining experience of my life. Part of who I am is because of my career as a military wife. I think of the military as family, Alma Powell once said. During the course of our young lives, he was often away. So, like many military spouses today, youre essentially a single parent. Your job was to make a home wherever you were. Home was where we were as a family, wherever that was. In what was believed to be Colin Powells final interview, he told journalist Bob Woodward in July 2021 that his wife was the greatest person hed ever known. She was always there for me, and shed tell me, Thats not a good idea. She was usually right, he said. One of those key decisions involved whether Colin Powell would seek the presidency as a Republican in 1996. He enjoyed immense popularity as a key architect of the American-led coalitions victory in the Gulf War, but The New York Times reported in 1995 that he decided against seeking the office based on the advice of his wife and children, who worried about his safety in a bid to become the first Black commander-in-chief. A Black man running for president is going to be in a dangerous position, Alma Powell said in 1996, CNN reported. At the time of her passing, Powell was listed as chair emeritus of Americas Promise Alliance, a nonprofit founded by her husband that seeks to help at-risk youths by coordinating the efforts of a cross-sector association of community organizations, businesses, and government organizations, according to the National Museum of African American History & Culture. She also served on the board of trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, was on President Barack Obamas Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities from 2010 to 2012 and was the advisor to the Red Cross of the military district of Washington during her husbands tenure as chairman of the Joint Chiefs, according to a biography of Alma Powell on the website of Americas Promise Alliance. Alma Powell was born on October 27, 1937, in Birmingham, Alabama, Cifrino said. She studied speech pathology and audiology at Emerson College in Boston and worked for a time as the staff audiologist for the Boston Guild for the Hard of Hearing. According to Cifrino, her work at the guild included giving hearing tests, fitting veterans with hearing aids and teaching the deaf to read lips. Along with the couples three children, Powell is survived by a niece and two nephews as well as countless beloved extended family members and friends, Cifrino said in a statement. CORRECTION: This story has been updated to reflect Colin Powells promotion to chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was under President George H.W. Bush. It also has been updated with additional background information. CNNs Jamie Gangel and Faith Karimi contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A former California public school district official was sentenced to 70 months last week after being convicted of embezzling nearly $16.7 million over several years. Jorge Armando Contreras, 53, formerly the senior director of financial services for the Magnolia School District in Californias Orange County, pleaded guilty on March 28 to one count of embezzlement, theft, and intentional misapplication of funds from an organization receiving federal funds. Instead of using his job at a public school district to help socio-economically disadvantaged children, Contreras embezzled millions upon millions of dollars, which he flagrantly spent on a luxury home, car, and designer clothes and accessories, United States Attorney Martin Estrada said in a July 25 press release. Photos released by the U.S. attorney's office showed cash and luxury goods kept in a mini fridge. California school administrator Jorge Armando Contreras embezzled more than $16 million from an Orange County, California school district, storing some of the luxury goods he purchased as well as cash in a mini fridge. Convicted: Illinois woman sentenced to 2 years in prison for sending military equipment to Russia Official worked in low-income school district, used money on luxury clothing and tequila The school district where Contreras, who was hired in 2006, worked serves the communities of Anaheim and Stanton. 81% of the students from preschool through sixth grade are classified as socio-economically disadvantaged. In his role with the school district, Contreras managed and had access to multiple bank accounts, including the student body bank account. Contreras, however, used that money to fund a lavish lifestyle with checks from those accounts deposited into his personal bank account. Orange County prosecutors said that they had already seized approximately $7.7 million in assets, including a home in Yorba Linda, California, a 2021 BMW automobile, 57 luxury designer bags, jewelry, designer clothes and shoes, and eight bottles of Clase Azul Ultra luxury tequila. Contreras, in his scheme, would write out checks in small dollar amounts written to M S D with the letter spaced out, and after receiving signatures, would alter the checks to include fictitious names and increase the amounts before depositing them in his personal accounts. He then provided bank records and bank reconciliation packets to the school district to conceal the fraud. Contreras was charged and placed on administrative leave in August 2023. He was sentenced to 70 months in prison and ordered to pay $16,694,942 in restitution. The FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the United States Department of Education Office of Inspector General investigated this case. Max Hauptman is a Trending Reporter for USA TODAY. He can be reached at MHauptman@gannett.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: California school official Jorge Contreras convicted of embezzlement Dani Reiss was 27 when he took over his grandfather's cold-weather clothing company, Canada Goose, in 2001. Much like the heirs of Arnault and Murdoch, Reiss assumed leadership of the $1.6 billion business decades ahead of the average worker. Such "nepo babies" or "nepo CEOs" are often underestimated when handed top jobsa sentiment Reiss told Fortune he knows all too well. It wasn't for another good 10 years, until my mid 30s or so, when I realized that I was a good leader, he admits. Having just graduated from the University of Toronto with an English literature and philosophy degree, Reiss wanted a career in writingfar away from the family business, a company called "Snow Goose" that brought in a couple of million dollars per year in revenue. The truth is I really, really did not plan to stick around, he recalls. I was just doing this as a temporary thing for a year before I was going to go traveling I was going to write short stories. Less than four years later, he was running the company: My father (David Reiss) was so happy to just retire and let me give it a shot. Of course, since then, Canada Goose has exploded from relative obscurity into a billion-dollar brand. No longer are its $1,200 plus parkas just for Canadians braving the blistering coldwith 68 stores around the world, Canada Goose merch is now being stocked even in sweltering spots like Miami (and soon Australia) and worn as streetwear by celebrities and Gen Zers alike. But stepping into the companys top role when he didnt really want it did little to convince him or others that he was deserving of the job. Once I decided to stick around, the people in the company that had started to become more successful self-selected out, and a lot of people that were there in the early days left, he admits before adding: To be clear, there weren't that many people to begin with, we had four employees at the front office. Reiss couldnt even bring himself to print his shiny new CEO title on paper. I had two or three business cards, the now 50-year-old exec remembers. One was blank, one said, marketing manager and one said, international sales manager. I didn't have a card that says CEO and I didn't have a card like that for many years. I didn't want one. I just didn't feel that that was appropriate, actually. Once the brand got "bigger and more important," he felt like he had finally earned that right. "I was meeting with bankers and people who needed to understand that they were talking to the person who made the decisions," he said. Prove you deserve a spot at the table Despite having built Canada Goose into the empire it is today, Reiss doesnt plan on following tradition and handing the helm to one of his two childrenat least, not any time soon. Firstly, he says theyre too young. But more importantly, the business is a far cry from the scrappy company he joined in the late 90s, with shareholders, a global footprint and much higher expectations. Our company was tiny and I would say most people were betting against our survival, he explains. It wasn't like a child joining a large established corporation, that often happens these days. But either way, looking back, his advice to anyone who wants to inherit the throne at their parents company is to prove to themselves and others that they deserve that spot first. In hindsight, if hypothetically, I did think I was going stay there [for more than one year] and did want to be the CEO, I think you have to be the hardest working person there, Reiss reflects. I have children, I don't imagine them in the business. But if they ever were to come into the business, they'd have to be smart enough, he laughs. But then, assuming you have the intellect, you also have to work harder than anybody else. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com MORAINE, Ohio (AP) A Chinese automotive glass maker says it was not the target of a federal investigation that temporarily shut down production last week at its Ohio plant, the subject of the Oscar-winning Netflix film American Factory. The investigation was focused on money laundering, potential human smuggling, labor exploitation and financial crimes, Homeland Security agent Jared Murphey said Friday. Fuyao Glass America said it was told by authorities that a third-party employment company was at the center of the criminal investigation, according to a filing with the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Agents with the Department of Homeland Security, FBI and Internal Revenue Service, along with local authorities, carried out federal search warrants Friday at the Fuyao plant in Moraine and nearly 30 other locations in the Dayton area. The company intends to cooperate fully with the investigation, Lei Shi, Fuyao Glass America community relations manager, said in a statement to the Dayton Daily News. Messages seeking comment were left with the company on Monday. Production was stopped temporarily Friday, but operations resumed near the end of the day, the statement said. Fuyao took over a shuttered General Motors factory a decade ago and eventually hired more than 2,000 workers to make glass for the automotive industry. The company, which received millions in tax breaks and incentives from the state and local governments, has said the Ohio plant was the worlds largest auto glass production facility. In 2019, a production company backed by Barack and Michelle Obama released American Factory. The film, which won a 2020 Oscar for best feature-length documentary, looked at issues including the rights of workers, globalization and automation. Workers voted overwhelmingly against unionizing in 2017 after some employees complained about unsafe workplace conditions, arbitrary policies and unfair treatment on the job. Earlier that year, Fuyao agreed to pay a $100,000 penalty after the Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the company for alleged violations involving machine safety, electrical hazards and a lack of personal protective gear. More than two years after a massive fire caused millions of dollars in damage to the Spirit of Norfolk in Virginia, the remains of the cruise vessel which have been sitting in Colonna's Shipyard ever since are getting new life as an artificial reef. According to an agenda request document from the Okaloosa County Commissioners in Florida, the Spirit of Norfolk and the Skippin Sue, a vessel owned by Coleen Marine Inc, were sold for $740,000 to be used as artificial marine reefs off the shore of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area. The request from the tourism development department in Okaloosa County was approved. "This vessel has nearly 40ft of relief and a 16ft mast which will provide some of the highest relief in our area," the request document said. Both vessels will also provide scuba diving and fishing opportunities. "As with all artificial reef deployments, these vessels provide essential habitat for numerous species of fish and a great location for divers and fishermen to visit enabling Destin-Fort Walton Beach to continue to improve its status as a premier fishing and diving destination in Florida," the document said. The Spirit of Norfolk, once a popular passenger ship in Virginia's Hampton Roads region, was underway in the Elizabeth River for a two-hour lunch cruise on June 7, 2022, when the captain reported a fire in the engine room. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the fire was too large for the sightseeing cruise crew to fight and all 108 passengers and crew had to be evacuated from the vessel. Everyone safely disembarked, but the fire wasn't fully extinguished until days later on June 11. The NTSB reported a $5 million loss from the fire. NTSB said that their investigation into the fire on the Spirit of Norfolk determined it was likely caused by "the ignition of combustible materials stored near the exhaust pipe of the operating port generator," according to a news release. Since the boat was operating before 1996, it was not required to have engine-room fire detection and fixed fire-extinguishing systems. This story was originally published by Scripps News Norfolk. Fox News host Trey Gowdy questioned Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) on Sunday over past remarks from the vice presidential candidate criticizing people who are childless and calling Vice President Harris a cat lady, an insult that has resulted in bipartisan blowback. Gowdy, himself a former congressman, defended those without children in the opening monologue of his show. He shared a story of meeting a pair of Catholic nuns who prayed for his friend, who was expecting a child, after spending the day together in an airport. And its not just Catholic nuns. Some of the finest people I know dont have children, Gowdy said. Teachers and guidance counselors and lawyers and doctors, and they love other peoples children enough to teach and guide and protect and minister to them. Some people choose not to have children. Others desperately want them, but they cant. The American people are forgiving, if we ask, he added before welcoming Vance on the show. Vance did not apologize for the comments, originally from 2021, instead accusing Democrats of being antifamily. If you look at what the left has done, they have radically taken this out of context and in fact, aggressively lied about what Ive said, Vance said. The left has increasingly become explicitly antichild and antifamily. Theyve encouraged young families not to have children at all, because of concerns over climate change. Gowdy again challenged Vance over the comments, pointing out that former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and George Washington are among American leaders without children. Vance agreed with Gowdys assessment that direct offspring are not necessary to be fully invested in the future of this country, but went on to say being a parent really does transform your perspective. So this is not a criticism, and was never a criticism, of everybody without children. That is a lie of the left. It is a criticism of the increasingly antiparent and antichild attitude of the left, Vance said. The senator added that he wont back down from his rhetoric, despite the criticism. Im going to keep on calling that out, because I think its important for parents to have a voice, he said. Im proud to be on the ticket with President Trump, a real defender of parents and families. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CAIRO (Reuters) -Israel and the Islamist group Hamas traded blame on Monday over the lack of progress in reaching a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the Gaza Strip despite international mediation. Hamas accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of adding new conditions and demands to a U.S.-backed truce proposal, after the latest talks conducted through mediators. Netanyahu, however, denied making any changes and said Hamas was the one insisting on numerous changes to the original proposal. The Palestinian Islamist group said it had received the latest response from Israel, following talks in Rome involving Israel, the United States, Egypt and Qatar. "It is clear from what the mediators conveyed that Netanyahu has returned to his strategy of procrastination, evasion, and avoiding reaching an agreement by setting new conditions and demands," Hamas said in a statement on Monday. It accused Netanyahu of retreating from a proposal previously presented by mediators, which it said had already been based on an "Israeli paper". Netanyahu's office said in response that it was Hamas leadership that was preventing a deal by demanding 29 changes to the proposal. "Israel is sticking by its principles according to the original proposal - a maximum number of hostages (to be freed) who are still alive, Israeli control of the Philadelphi Corridor (along the Gaza-Egypt border), and preventing the movement of terrorists and weapons to the northern Gaza Strip," it said. Washington, which sponsors the talks, has repeatedly said a deal is close; the latest talks are over a proposal President Joe Biden unveiled in May. Hamas wants a ceasefire agreement to end the war in Gaza, while Netanyahu says the conflict will stop only once Hamas is defeated. There are also disagreements over how a deal would be implemented. Mediators Qatar and Egypt, backed by the U.S., have repeatedly said doors to more negotiations remain open, with both Israel and Hamas voicing readiness to pursue them. (Reporting by Nidal Al-Mughrabi; editing by Kevin Liffey, Mark Heinrich and Tomasz Janowski) Claire Hao is a reporter on the Houston Chronicle business desk covering the Texas power grid, the clean energy transition and other electricity-related topics. Claire previously spent a year on the climate and environment team of the San Francisco Chronicle. She has written for the news desks of Bloomberg Law and the Chicago Tribune as well as for the editorial board of the Washington Post. Claire graduated from the University of Michigan. Vice President Harris is staring down the political reality that she could be the nations first female president, and her rapid rise is posing new challenges for Republicans and Democrats on how to approach gender-related issues when seeking to appeal to voters. While she would not be the first woman to lead Democrats at the top of the ticket, her emergence comes against a different political backdrop, eight years after former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ran against former President Trump. Since 2016, women have been in large part responsible for Democratic gains up and down the ballot, while the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion at the federal level, has played a major role in galvanizing women. Kamala Harris, unlike Hillary Clinton, has a little bit more of a roadmap about what it means to run for president of the United States, particularly against Donald Trump, because she watched it as we all did, in 2016, said Debbie Walsh, the director of the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University. Trump was a bit of an unknown in 2016. Trumps election led to a massive reaction from women, particularly left-leaning women voters. The day after Trump was inaugurated, millions of women took to the streets of major U.S. cities, including Washington, to protest Trump. Two years later, a wave of Democratic women was elected to Congress in the 2018 midterm elections, which were largely viewed as a referendum on Trumps first two years in office. The loss of Hillary Clinton motivated a lot of women, Walsh said. We saw record numbers of women running and winning for Congress. We have record numbers of women now serving in Congress. And then in 2020, we saw for the first time multiple women on a debate stage. Two years after Trump was ousted from office, his nominated Supreme Court justices played a pivotal role in overturning Roe v. Wave in 2022. That same year, Democrats were able to blunt a nationwide red wave in the midterm elections. In 2018, Democrats were also able to make inroads in Virginias off-year elections. Since President Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Harris on Sunday, her campaign has seen a groundswell in momentum from women across the board. Hours after Biden dropped out, 40,000 people joined a Win With Black Women call Sunday, when the group endorsed Harris. On Thursday, more than 100,000 people signed on to a White Women for Kamala call. We have seen in the last seven years a real movement to build a multiracial coalition of women that are working hard to protect each other, said Jess Jollett, executive director of Progress North Carolina, who was on the call. Harris is sure to face unique criticism because shes a woman, though Republicans are warning that could be a losing strategy for them. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and other GOP leaders are telling colleagues to back off attacks against her citing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Republicans have railed against DEI in recent years but also have been aggressively trying to court Black voters this cycle, outlining the balance they have to strike in attacking her. This election is going to be about policies, not personalities. This isnt personal with regard to Kamala Harris, Johnson said on Tuesday. Her ethnicity, her gender, has nothing to do with this whatsoever. Longtime political watchers agree Republicans need to focus on policy this cycle and steer clear of sexism and racism. What I hope is that she would be evaluated the way every president should be evaluated on their character, integrity, policies and capabilities of doing the job man or woman. I hope at this point we are moving past that, said Anita McBride, former chief of staff to first lady Laura Bush. Leadership has said, dont go after gender and ethnicity. Thats not the point of this campaign, and shouldnt be of any theres so much more at stake. Its the future and direction of the policies of the country. And Kamala Harris is talking about that on her side, and the Republicans should be talking about that too, she added. Harris, who is of Jamaican and Indian descent, broke multiple barriers when she became vice president and would do so again if she were elected president. Its not helpful, its not helpful, Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said on CNN, in response to DEI comments from GOP lawmakers this week. Were talking about a liberal senator, who literally has not accomplished much you dont need to talk about what she looks like or what gender she is.Harris has also faced criticism over her family in a way that is unique to women. A 2021 clip of Trumps running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), calling Harris and other female politicians childless cat ladies, despite her role as stepmother to Emhoffs two children, resurfaced this week. Some women have publicly taken offense to that rhetoric, most notably actor Jennifer Aniston, who knocked Vance over it. When asked about the potential pitfalls Republicans could face with Trump and Vance at the top of the ticket, one Republican strategist pointed to what they said is Democrats problem with male voters. The question here isnt Does Trump have to worry about scaring away women? Thats already baked in the cake, the GOP strategist said. How many men is Kamala going to scare away? the strategist said. If she was so good at cobbling together minority voters, she wouldnt have dropped out before Iowa in 2019. Trump generally polls better than Harris among white, male voters, but other Republicans say there is room to win over persuadable women voters. I find historically that women tend to be the toughest critics of women, said Erin Perrine, a Republican strategist. We understand what it is to be a woman because we are one and they tend to be the hardest to win over. Thats why its such a big, persuadable voting block because female voters tend to be harsher on each other. Im not as much concerned if I was a Democrat about driving male voters away as I would be about how hard it is to win over female voters and hold them, she added. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. How quickly an ambulance arrives on the scene can spell the difference life and death, yet for those facing a medical emergency a speedy trip to the ER often leads to a surprise, and shockingly high, bill. In roughly half of ambulance trips, the service is out of network and not covered by insurance, according to U.S. PIRG Education Fund. Those bills carried a median out-of-pocket balance of $450, while in some states they averaged more than $1,000, according to research cited by the non-profit group. That's because when people dial 911, the dispatcher sends whatever emergency medical transport services are most readily available. "Nobody should be asking about coverage you just want the closest response," Patricia Kelmar, senior director of health care campaigns at U.S. PIRG, told CBS MoneyWatch. "Always call, don't try to second guess it." What the law says The federal No Surprises Act protects people from many types of out-of-network health care bills, including unexpected charges for ER services, air ambulances and most out-of-network care at in-network facilities. Yet that law, passed by Congress in late 2020, doesn't address ground ambulances, an industry in which so-called balance billing in which patients are charged the difference between the in-network and out-of-network rate is the prevailing practice. For instance, the law didn't prevent one family from getting hit with a $97,599 bill for an 86 mile air ambulance flight to San Francisco from Salinas, California, to get specialized care for a baby fighting for his life. That's because health plans determine what care is "medically necessary," and insurers get to define what that means in each case. Another such case involved a rural Tennessee resident who died at 70 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville last year, leaving being a early $82,000 air ambulance bill that her estate was expected to pay. And, while 18 states have enacted protections against surprise ambulance billing, the laws only cover people in state-regulated insurance plans, with federal action needed to extend the protections to those with private employer-sponsored coverage, which is about 65% of the country. Many communities contract EMT services from one provider, and unless it has an agreement with a person's insurer, the service would be 100% out of network, Kelmar said. Additionally, patients transported from one hospital to another are basically at the mercy of medical staff, who are not necessarily focused on what is covered by insurance. Asked how to avoid such a scenario, Kelmar replied that "it may not be possible. If you call 911, they send who is available." Indeed, she strongly advises that people get get the emergency care they need and then deal with the bills. Get an itemized bill, then negotiate But when consumers do get hit with an exorbitant ambulance bill, there are several steps people should take, Kelmar told CBS MoneyWatch. 1. Get an itemized bill. That's essential for identifying and potentially challenging individual charges. Towns typically negotiate mileage rates, and if you find a community two miles down the road with a lower rate, you can suggest paying that rate instead. 2. Negotiate. It can be hard to get patients to pay for ambulance services, so if a person is willing to cover even a portion, some companies are willing to bargain. "Talk about your financial situation, tell them, 'I'm on this kind of budget, that I've been out of work X number of days'," she said. Ambulance providers are often willing to cut a deal, such as 40% off in a person pays by the end of the day, said Kelmar, who advised putting such charges on a high-interest credit card. 3. Make sure the bill went through insurance. Even out-of-network, insurance plans would pay a portion akin to a negotiated rate, so make sure that has occurred. "In the course of an emergency, sometimes the ambulance doesn't get your insurance or the hospital is not forthcoming, so you want to verify that the bill has been run through insurance. Sometimes the ambulance bills you the very next day, so verify that this is the final bill," Kelmar said. 4. Go back to your insurance company and ask them to pay more. "That's also an important call to make," Kelmar said. "Then you can tell the ambulance company you are trying to get them more money." Harris ramps up campaign as Trump remarks to Christian voters generate controversy Creating meditative "Circles in the Sand" Kamala Harris' turn to make history JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel's foreign minister urged NATO to expel Turkey on Monday after its President Tayyip Erdogan threatened his country might enter Israel as it had entered Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh in the past. "In light of Turkish President Erdogan's threats to invade Israel and his dangerous rhetoric, Foreign Minister Israel Katz instructed diplomats ... to urgently engage with all NATO members, calling for the condemnation of Turkey and demanding its expulsion from the regional alliance," the ministry said. Erdogan, a fierce critic of Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza, said in a speech on Sunday: "We must be very strong so that Israel can't do these ridiculous things to Palestine. Just like we entered Karabakh, just like we entered Libya, we might do similar to them." He did not spell out what sort of intervention he was suggesting. "Erdogan is following in the footsteps of Saddam Hussein and threatening to attack Israel. He should remember what happened there and how it ended," Katz said in the statement. "Turkey, which hosts the Hamas headquarters responsible for terrorist attacks against Israel, has become a member of the Iranian axis of evil, alongside Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis in Yemen," he said. Once close regional allies, relations between Israel and Turkey have been deteriorating for more than a decade. Bilateral trade weathered many diplomatic storms, reaching billions of dollars a year, but Turkey this month said they would halt all bilateral trade with Israel until the war ends and aid can flow unhindered into Gaza. (Reporting by Ari Rabinovitch; Editing by Leslie Adler and Howard Goller) MediaFeed / Doc James/Wikimedia Commons / Phoenixns/istockphoto Can ketamine help sleep? Ketamine, an anesthetic and mental health medication, is known for its rapid antidepressant effects. It significantly impacts sleep, often reducing REM and slow-wave sleep, and isn't typically used for sleep disorders like narcolepsy or sleep apnea. Ketamine's sedative effects may aid some with depression-related insomnia but can worsen sleep quality in others. Usage should be medically supervised due to potential side effects. By now, youve probably heard of ketamine. Its often described as a miracle drug for people living with major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But you may not yet know about ketamines potentially significant effects on sleep. This article will explore everything you need to know about ketamine and sleep. Hand Holding Ketamine With a Syringe What is ketamine? Ketamine is an anesthetic (tranquilizer) and mental health medication that blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. Because of its effects on NMDA, it can make one experience dissociation and sedation, which can be therapeutic, says Niloufar Esmaeilpour, founder and clinical director of Lotus Therapy & Counseling Centre in British Columbia, Canada. Ketamine is an anesthetic (tranquilizer) and mental health medication that blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. Lordn/istockphoto How does ketamine work? NMDA is responsible for allowing neurons in the synapses within your brain to communicate and work in concert with the perception of pain and making memories. By blocking NMDA, ketamine has both sedative and stimulatory effects. This means it can have significant effects on your sleep. Ketamine historically has been administered intravenously (IV). However, many doctors now prefer intramuscular injection as it is easier to dose and administer and causes fewer adverse effects, says Jared L. Ross, DO, president and founder of the medical education and consulting firm EMSEC, LLC, in Sedalia, Mo. Ross explains that ketamine also can be administered via lozenges that are dissolved under the tongue, or via rectal suppositories. Ketamine should be taken only under the guidance of a medical professional. Careful medical assessment and a review of medical history with the attending health provider have to be done before treatment with ketamine, says Esmaeilpour. nong2/istockphoto Ketamine and sleep: Whats the connection? Ketamine has been shown to have significant negative short-term effects on sleep, says Ross, including increased time to fall asleep, decreased total sleep, decreased REM sleep, decreased slow-wave sleep, and decreased sleep quality. For this reason, he recommends that people with sleep disturbances avoid ketamine after 12 pm. Person Sitting on a Park Bench, in the Background, Black & White Ketamine and depression Ketamine has rapid-acting antidepressant activity, Esmaeilpour says. According to a review of the research on ketamine reported in the journal Progress in Neurobiology, The discovery of ketamines rapid antidepressant effects is arguably one of the most substantial advances in modern psychiatry. The review notes that, in contrast to conventional antidepressant drugs that may require months of daily use before seeing results, a single infusion of ketamine often relieves symptoms in mere hours and its antidepressant effects typically last for up to a week. Andrii Lysenko/istockphoto Ketamine and sleep disorders Because depression tends to alter a persons sleeping pattern, leading to problems like insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleep), Esmaeilpour adds that ketamines sedative characteristics might be sleep-promoting for some patients. She cautions, however, that its effects on sleep architecture, such as the distribution of sleep stages across the night, vary widely among individuals. When depression is the primary reason for poor sleep, a 2023 literature review states ketamine can improve sleep. But for those with such sleep disorders as narcolepsy or sleep apnea, Ross says ketamine is unlikely to help. Esmaeilpour says ketamine is generally not a good idea with regard to sleep disorders. Sleep apnea relates to respiratory functions, she says, whereas narcolepsy is all about neurological functions, and the primary effects of ketamine do not deal with the underlying causes of these two sleep disorders. Woman Laying on Her Side, Experiencing Insomnia, Black & White Ketamine and insomnia Ketamine may worsen insomnia in most patients by decreasing slow-wave and REM sleep, and decreasing sleep quality, Ross says. However, in patients with insomnia due to major depressive disorder (MDD), specifically treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ketamine can be very helpful. Esmaeilpour adds that ketamine may give some temporary relief to insomnia due to its sedative effectbut its long-term effects on sleep patterns are unpredictable, making it a double-edged sword. She adds that some people may get rebound insomnia when the drug effects wear off. Ketamine may worsen insomnia in most patients by decreasing slow-wave and REM sleep, and decreasing sleep quality. However, in patients with insomnia due to major depressive disorder (MDD), specifically treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ketamine can be very helpful. Jared L. Ross, DO, president and founder of the medical education and consulting firm EMSEC, LLC, in Sedalia, Mo. AndreyPopov/istockphoto Ketamine and REM sleep Ross says ketamine decreases REM sleep and slow-wave sleep, the deepest level of non-REM sleep. The effects of ketamine on REM sleep are important, Esmaeilpour says, because this stage is essential to emotional and cognitive health. It has been noted that ketamine depresses the REM stage of sleep during the initial hours after administration. This could serve to interrupt the normal sleep cycle and affect the restorative properties of sleep, notes Esmaeilpour, though the clinical significance of these effects does vary. Pranithan Chorruangsak/istockphoto Risks of ketamine Its important to emphasize that ketamine is a powerful drug and should only be used under medical supervision. It can have severe adverse effects. Ketamine can cause significant nausea and vomiting, Ross says, especially when administered by IV or in lozenges under the tongue. Some patients experience an emergence reaction where they get confused and agitated as the ketamine is wearing off. He adds that other adverse effects such as increased saliva production and decreased breathing are very rare. Some people should avoid ketamine altogether. Ketamine can trigger psychosis in patients who are at increased risk, Ross says. People with a strong family history of psychosis (such as schizophrenia) or serious mood disorders (such as bipolar disorder) might want to avoid ketamine. He adds that people with well-controlled schizophrenia or bipolar disorder should avoid ketamine as well. He notes, though, that ketamine is frequently used to treat acute exacerbations of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Esmaeilpour says people considering ketamine also need to be informed about side effects. Common ones include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, and an increase in blood pressure. She adds that the probability of psychological effects, such as hallucinations or altered perception is just as high as the other side effects. Depending on the dose and response of the individual, the side effects may be intense but very short-lived, says Esmaeilpour. Those with a history of substance abuse, as well as severe psychiatric disorders, may be predisposed to serious adverse events. She adds that individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or at risk of glaucoma may need to avoid ketamine because of its potential to worsen these conditions. People who have any issues with their bladder or severe addiction issues should avoid ketamine, says Abigail Lev, PsyD, a San Francisco-based clinical psychologist who provides ketamine-assisted therapy with the Bay Area CBT Center. She stresses that the drug should be taken in moderation and with a physicians assistance, and be very careful because it can become addictive and should not be abused. If you believe ketamine therapy may be right for you, then begin your search for a qualified medical provider here. Sleep Tracking on an Apple Watch FAQs Whats the link between ketamine and sleep enhancements? Using ketamine together with zolpidem may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, excessive sedation, and respiratory depression, according to drugs.com. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. WebMD also warns, Its important patients know not to combine ketamine with other medications or substances that can make a person sleepy, such as alcohol, sleep medication, anti-anxiety medications, or opiates. Can ketamine be used to treat sleep disorders? Ketamine isnt typically used to treat sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea. It is used, however, to treat mental health disorders that commonly interfere with your ability to get a good nights sleep. Are there any side effects of using ketamine for sleep? Its important to understand that ketamine isnt a sleep aid, per se, but rather a drug used to treat depression and PTSD that can interfere with sleep. This article originally appeared on Saatva and was syndicated by MediaFeed. Major LGBTQ organizations and leaders are rallying around Vice President Harriss historic bid for the White House, highlighting her positive record on LGBTQ rights over a decades-long political career and what a Harris presidency could mean for the community. Kamala Harris was a supporter of LGBTQ+ people when that was not an easy thing to do politically, said Brandon Wolf, press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, a national LGBTQ advocacy group that has endorsed Harris. As San Franciscos district attorney, Harris officiated some of the nations first same-sex marriage ceremonies during the citys Winter of Love in 2004. Later, as Californias attorney general, Harris refused to defend Proposition 8, a state constitutional amendment that banned same-sex marriage, in court. She advocated for the repeal of the amendment in 2013, which the Supreme Court struck down later that year. During her time as San Franciscos district attorney, Harris also created a hate crimes unit to investigate crimes against LGBTQ children and teens in schools and helped make California the first state to ban the use of the gay and transgender panic defense, which allows individuals accused of violent crimes to receive lesser sentences by arguing that the victims sexual orientation or gender identity caused them to panic. In 2017, the then-California senator co-sponsored the Senates Equality Act, a landmark proposal to amend existing federal antidiscrimination law to make sexual orientation and gender identity protected classes. A 2019 bill introduced by Harris sought to require private health plans to cover prescription HIV prevention medications, screenings and clinical follow-ups. Harris has, however, faced some criticism for her record on transgender rights. As California attorney general in 2015, Harris worked to block a transgender woman in a state prison from receiving gender-affirming surgery. In 2019, during Harriss first presidential run, she said she took full responsibility for her actions in the case, adding that she worked behind the scenes to get the California Department of Corrections to change its policy denying trans inmates gender-affirming care. Certainly, her stance on the case was discouraging and harmful to trans people in the state at the time, and theres no question how devastating it was for our client, said Shelby Chestnut, executive director of the Transgender Law Center, which defended the woman, Michelle Norsworthy, in court. But we also have to put it in the context that in subsequent years, in various different positions, she has done a lot to impact the trans community and stay on their side. In the Senate, Harris helped put pressure on other offices to release information related to the death of Roxsana Hernandez, a transgender Honduran woman who died in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in 2018, Chestnut said. She really took the opportunity to push for accountability in Roxsanas death, which is critical, and thats how we get change, they said. Hernandezs death is still under investigation. Harris has also come under fire for her support of FOSTA-SESTA, 2018 law addressing sex trafficking. The law, which makes it easier for law enforcement agencies to go after websites that facilitate sex trafficking, also targets consensual sex work, hobbling an industry where LGBTQ people, and transgender people in particular, are disproportionately represented. Her support for the Biden administrations policies on the Israel-Hamas war has also isolated some LGBTQ voters who consider the conflict a major voting issue. Tensions boiled over during Pride Month events across the U.S. this year, with boycotts and demonstrations exposing deep divisions within the community. Following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington on Thursday, Harris said Israel has a right to defend itself against Hamas, but she will not be silent on Palestinian suffering. In a statement, Harris also condemned protests over Netanyahus address to a joint meeting of Congress on Wednesday. Some transgender Americans have also expressed hesitancy over the Biden administrations opposition to gender-affirming surgeries for minors, a statement that surprised supporters and angered major LGBTQ rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign. The administration later clarified that it does not support state or national bans on gender-affirming care, and families should have the freedom to make the medical decisions that they and their doctors determine are best for them. Gender-affirming surgeries are not typically recommended for transgender youths under 18. Genital, or bottom surgery, is never available to minors. The administration has, for the most part, made strides in advancing LGBTQ rights over the past four years, and President Biden, who suspended his own reelection campaign last week, frequently touts his and Harriss administration as the most pro-LGBTQ in history. Wolf, of the Human Rights Campaign, said voters in November should consider the totality of [Harriss] record if she is confirmed as the partys official nominee at next months Democratic National Convention. They should also remember who shes running against. Former President Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, has promised to enact at least a dozen policies targeting members of the LGBTQ community if he is reelected, including a nationwide ban on transgender student-athletes competing in accordance with their gender identity and a federal law that recognizes only two genders. The former president has also vowed to punish doctors who administer gender-affirming care to minors, roll back new LGBTQ student protections instituted by the Biden administration and cut federal funding for schools that accommodate transgender students. Meanwhile, Trumps running mate, Ohio Republican Sen. JD Vance, has championed legislation in the Senate to make providing gender-affirming medical care to transgender minors a felony and ban X gender markers on U.S. passports. The first-term senator has also repeated the false and inflammatory claim that LGBTQ people are grooming children to abuse them, and during his 2022 Senate campaign he opposed legislation safeguarding marriage equality. The contrast really could not be clearer, Wolf said. Prominent LGBTQ leaders and organizations immediately lined up behind Harris after she formally announced her White House bid on Sunday. A fundraising call hosted Thursday evening by the Human Rights Campaign, the National Center for Transgender Equality and other state and national organizations raked in more than $300,000 for Harris and registered 1,500 campaign volunteers, the groups said Friday. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Michael Erman (Reuters) -Pfizer's, GSK's and Moderna's competition for arms for their new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines is on Wall Street's watch list for when the companies report earnings later this week. Investors and analysts said they are hoping for details on company negotiations with pharmacies for shelf space and the tactics they will use to gain share after U.S. regulators narrowed the recommendation for which older adults who should receive the shots this year. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last month the shots should be used in adults 75 and older, as well as those who are 60 to 74 and have an increased risk of severe RSV due to medical conditions. Last year - the first year the shots were on the market - the age had effectively been 60 and up. In 2023, GSK won two-thirds of the market, mostly due to its contracts with retail pharmacies. The company has held on to its dominant market share in the U.S. so far this year, according to Iqvia data from analyst notes. Analysts had suggested expanding the RSV vaccine to adults aged 50 to 59 at increased risk from the illness, an age group for which only GSK has FDA approval, could help cement its lead. But the CDC held off on recommending the shots for that age group. The decision pushed GSK shares down 6% the following day. The narrower recommendation "probably evens the playing field a little bit more for GSK and Pfizer longer term," said Guggenheim Partners analyst Evan Wang. Regulators also said people who were vaccinated last year should not get another shot as they are expected to confer multiple years of protection. Combined revenue for the Pfizer and GSK shots in their first year of availability topped $2.4 billion. This year analysts expect around $1.2 billion in sales each for both GSK and Pfizer and another $370 million in sales for Moderna's mResvia, which was approved in May. GSK is scheduled to release earnings on Wednesday, a day after Pfizer. "We have an extensive ongoing development plan for Arexvy and continue to see this exceptional vaccine as a significant long-term growth opportunity for GSK," a company spokesperson said in a statement. RSV typically causes cold-like symptoms but is also a leading cause of pneumonia in toddlers and older adults, leading to 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths in the United States annually. Pfizer has said its 2023 launch of its shot Abrysvo was a disappointment and that the company would focus on improving its contacts and commercial execution this year. The company's shot could be helped by being the only one approved for pregnant women in order to protect their babies. "I would like to hear that (Pfizer's) identified the weaknesses in the launch and are making adjustments to how they're going to pursue that," said William Couchman, executive vice president at investment firm Birmingham Capital Management, which holds around $5 million in Pfizer shares and has been building its position in recent months. Pfizer recently secured a two-year contract to supply close to 5 million doses of its vaccine in the UK. Analysts expect Moderna, which is rolling out its mRNA shot for the first time, to come in third this year as it works to build up recognition of its new shot. The company hopes the fact that it is the only shot available as a pre-filled syringe will help with its uptake. "We are currently shipping mResvia to major retailers and other points of care and are well positioned in a competitive market," Moderna said in a statement. Moderna is set to report its earnings on Thursday. (Reporting by Michael Erman; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Prince Michael was a first cousin to Prince Philip, the husband of the U.K.'s Queen Elizabeth Dimitris Aspiotis/Alamy Prince Michael of Greece Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark has died. He was 85. The royal, who was a first cousin to Prince Philip, died at an Athens hospital, according to The Telegraph citing local outlets. The Independentreported that he will be buried in the Greek city on August 1. Prince Michael is survived by his wife, Marina Karella, and their two daughters, Princess Alexandra and Princess Olga. He was the last surviving grandson of King George I, who was assassinated in 1913, with a lineage to the House of Bourbon through his mother, Francoise dOrleans. He was a writer and historian who worked under the name Michel De Gres. His photo memoir, Crown, Art and Fantasy: A Life in Pictures, was published last year. Luc Castel/Getty Prince Michael of Greece on November 7, 2023 in Paris Related: Meet the Greek Royals: All About the Modern Princes and Princesses of the Former Monarchy Prince Michael's father, Prince Christopher of Greece and Denmark, died when he was just 1, and his mother died when he was 14. He told Fox News in 2023, "I have no brothers or sisters. It was very hard for six months. But I think I have a sense of adaptation, which has helped me all through my life. And then, I went to live with an uncle of mine [the Count of Paris], who had 12 children. So, [I went] from being a lonely child to becoming a member of a very large family. It took me six months of perhaps loneliness, sadness or whatever to adapt. Then afterward, I was very happy." Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Prince Michael met artist Marina Karella at a party through mutual friends, and they married at the Royal Palace in Athens in 1965. However, the bride's commoner status meant he had to renounce his claim to the throne. "Renouncing this title, not being a member of a ruling monarch in official functions and everything, gave me a sense of freedom," he told Fox News. "I could choose my work and my profession, which I discovered was writing and history. It gave me the freedom to choose my way." Prince Michael's nephew King Constantine II, the last king of Greece who reigned until the abolition of the Greek monarchy in June 1973, recently died in Jan. 2023 at age 82. Despite no longer being legally recognized, members of the Greek royal family continue to stylize their names with royal titles. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Scientists say proteins in the blood could help determine the onset of several diseases. Universal Images Group via Getty Images This article originally appeared on Medical News Today Blood tests can be used to detect proteins circulating in the blood. These proteins can, and are used to determine and predict our health, as they give an insight into what levels different systems are operating at. Many diseases, particularly uncommon diseases, are difficult to diagnose as there is no known blood test that can be used to detect them. A team of researchers used UK Biobank data to determine which proteins could be used to detect over 60 conditions. Researchers have identified protein signatures in blood tests that can be used to detect or predict up to 67 diseases, using UK Biobank data in a cohort of nearly 42,000 participants. They say they can more accurately identify whether diseases, including multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and motor neuron disease, will develop in the next 10 years than traditional clinical history taking. Proteomics is the study of structure and function of proteins wherever they are found in our bodies. Since proteins are key players in oncogenesis, their identification can be correlated with existing disease, spread of disease, or in the early stages of initiation of transformation from normal cells to malignant ones, said Richard Reitherman, MD, PhD, board certified radiologist at MemorialCare Breast Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, who was not involved in the research. For example, blood levels of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) are used as a screening test for the existence of prostate cancer or its spread in men who have been treated for prostate cancer, he told Medical News Today . The results were published in Nature Medicine. Analyzing proteins in the blood Researchers from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the U.K., and Germany highlighted that while certain clinical measurements and history-taking can be used to predict the risk of developing some common diseases, people with rarer diseases do not benefit as much from this clinical model. The lack of blood tests for some conditions means there are delays in their diagnosis. To quantify this, the researchers looked at traditionally collected clinical measures for a subset of nearly 42,000 U.K. Biobank participants whose data was released as part of the U.K.s Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project. Participants in this subset had collectively been diagnosed with 218 pathologically diverse diseases. The clinical data researchers collected on them included: Age Sex BMI Self-reported ethnicity Smoking status Alcohol consumption Self-reported paternal or maternal history The scientists discovered that endocrine and cardiovascular diseases were among the best predicted using these clinical measures. They then analyzed blood plasma data to identify potential protein predictors of 218 diseases in 7075% of participants. They discovered that for 163 diseases, a biomarker signature of just five proteins alone predicted disease as well as the clinical model. For 67 diseases, the detection of the presence of just 520 proteins significantly improved clinical models. Which diseases can the blood test predict? For these 67 diseases, the median detection rate using the protein signature was 45.5% compared with 25% when just the clinical model was used, with a 10% false positive rate. These diseases included: Multiple myeloma Non-Hodgkin lymphoma Pulmonary fibrosis Celiac disease Dilated cardiomyopathy Motor neuron disease Researchers predicted for celiac disease, a condition that can present silently and requires invasive testing to diagnose, using a protein detection test for the condition would result in 80% of cases being detected, with a 10% false positive rate. They then validated these findings with the remaining 25-30% of the cohort. For 14 of the 41 diseases the researchers tested, the predictive performance of the protein signatures differed between men and women. The researchers did not investigate why the observed differences in blood protein occurred when certain diseases developed, but it was something that was currently being tested, said lead author Claudia Langenberg MD, PhD, Director, Precision Healthcare University Research Institute and Professor of Medicine and Population Health and Queen Mary University of London. Most studies do not test prediction of future events, as this requires much larger numbers, but we are currently checking how early before disease onset protein changes that are evident at or after diagnosis are seen, she told MNT. A single protein to predict disease Researchers had been keen to highlight that just a few proteins were needed to predict the risk of having or developing certain diseases. They did further analysis to show that 30 diseases could be predicted or detected using just a single protein. They did specific analysis to show that up to 10 years before diagnosis, higher blood plasma levels of TNFRSF17 and TNFRSF13B receptors were predictors of increased risk of multiple myeloma and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, a condition that precedes the development of multiple myeloma, respectively. Dave Hoon, PhD, professor and director of the Genomic Sequencing Center and professor and director of Dept Translational Molecular Medicine at Providence Saint Johns Cancer Institute in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in the research, told MNT: Hematological cancers molecular diagnosis is quite good today. However, certain cancer subtypes still need histopathological diagnosis to confirm. A combination of both histopathology and molecular diagnosis provides more accuracy and confidence for subtypes of hematological cancer diagnosis. Changes occur in blood proteins as diagnostic biomarkers due to stage of cancer and metabolic/molecular progression during disease progression. More advanced stages of cancers will have significantly different protein profile changes compared to early stage cancers, he continued. This level of basic research is designed to further understand how specific proteins are related to human disease. Continued research of proteomics can ultimately lead not only to understanding basic mechanisms of oncogenesis but can progress to the discovery and validation of screening, diagnostic, and prognostic tests, and hopefully to the development of novel drug targets used in human clinical trials and ultimately used to prevent and cure human diseases. Richard Reitherman, MD, PhD View the original article on Medical News Today Hammerhead flat worm, Bipalium sp., Land planarian family, Geoplanidae, Kinabalu National Park, UNESCO nature world heritage site, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia. (Photo by: Gunter Fischer/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Education Images/Education Images/Universal Image A rainy summer across Southeast Texas has unearthed a legion of toxic "snake-like" worms that can grow more than a foot long and regenerate when cut in half. Houston and the surrounding regions have been battered by heavy rainfall this summer, including Hurricane Beryl and several thunderstorms. All that water has flooded the underground homes of the invasive hammerhead flatworm species, driving the toxic giant worms to the surface. Here's what you need to know: Advertisement Article continues below this ad What are hammerhead flatworms? The hammerhead flatworm, also known as the hammerhead slug, is an invasive species of flatworm named for its characteristic half-moon shaped head, according to the Texas Invasive Species Institute. They can grow up to 15 inches long. Hammerhead flatworms present an ecological threat to Texas since they are known to prey on earthworms that help maintain the underground ecosystem, the institute says on its website. They secrete a noxious chemical from their skin that protects them from predators and helps them digest their meals. Oh, and they also regenerate. If you try to cut one of these worms in half, a second head will regenerate from the other half within 10 days. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They're known to appear on driveways, patios and sidewalks after heavy rainfall. How did they make it to Texas? According to the Texas Invasive Species Institute, the hammerhead flatworm originated in Southeast Asia and has been in the United States since the beginning of the 20th century. The worms seem to have found a perfect home in Houston; they prefer hot and humid climates, and in tropical and subtropical areas they have been known to spread as a "hitchhiker" in the landscaping and mulch industries and nurseries. They have been found in swaths of the state that include Southeast Texas, South Texas, East Texas, numerous Gulf Coastal counties and the Dallas-Fort Worth area, according to the TISI. Advertisement Article continues below this ad How toxic are they to humans, pets? The toxins the hammerhead flatworms secrete from their skin can cause skin irritation in humans and can poison pets that consume them. The Texas Invasive Species Institute says the flatworms can also carry parasitic nematodes. The TISI recommends using gloves, a paper towel or a stick when handling live flatworms. Hands should be washed in warm water with soap afterward and it is recommended to then use hand sanitizer. How do you get rid of them? Because of the ecological threat they pose and the fact that these worms can regenerate if they are cut in half, it's important to dispose of them properly. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The weather outside may still be sweltering, but summer is already coming to an end for some students in the U.S. Depending on where you live, kids in your community may be starting school this week, while others have an entire month or more left before they need to hit the stores for new backpacks and pencils. In fact, research shows there is more than a month between some of the earliest and latest back-to-school start dates. In the Southeast, for example, kids are headed back to school before July ends, while others in areas like the Northeast are still smack dab in the middle of summer. By Thursday, July 25, all students in Lamar County, Mississippi were back in school. Atlanta Public Schools welcomes kids back on Aug. 1, marking the first wave of the school year. Students in Buffalo, New York, however, won't see the inside of a classroom until Sept. 1 or later while kids in the Chicago Public School district will start returning on August 26. Here is what to know about back-to-school dates around the country. More: Are schools asking too much for back-to-school shopping? Many parents say yes. When do schools around the country go back? An analysis of more than 13,000 public school districts conducted in 2019 by the Pew Research Center found that in broad terms, schools in the South and Southwest tend to return to school earlier than those in the Northwest and along the East Coast. Pew found that: By mid-August, nearly all public school students in the region covering Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee were back in class. Not a single district, however, in the New England and Middle Atlantic states went back until late August. Some districts that operate on so-called modified year-round calendars begin in late July. Some students in New Jersey were not going back until the second week of September. Why do summer breaks vary so much from coast to coast? You may have heard the popular explanation that school schedules historically were based largely around agrarian culture. It is a common belief that education had to be tailored around the cycle of crop growth and harvest, meaning Southern children were needed on the farm during the most labor-intensive times of the season while Northern children were already living in a more industrialized setting that didn't require the same farm labor. This theoretically meant Southern children left school earlier and went back earlier. In reality, however, it is more likely those children helping on the farm would be needed in the spring during planting and the fall during harvest, not the sweltering summer months. This explanation may be rooted in some truth, but experts say it is more likely most school schedules were tailored around the needs of the community. Agrarian cycles are generally cited as the reason for summer breaks, which supposedly allowed for young people to assist with responsibilities on family farms, Julie Gorlewski, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Teacher Education at the University at Buffalo, previously told USA TODAY. However, prior to efforts toward standardization in the late 19th century, school calendars reflected the needs of their communities." What factors go into choosing back-to-school dates? Other major considerations are weather (before the advent of A/C you did not want to be in a schoolhouse in the south in the peak of summer), local and national holidays, collective bargaining agreements, government funding and regulations. For example, the New York State Department of Education places limitations on when schools can be in session. In New York, the school year can begin no earlier than September 1 and can extend no later than June 30. If public school districts want any state aid or funding, they have to adhere to these guidelines. The state also requires a minimum of 180 days of instruction per school year. In short, decisions around school calendars reflect the kind of tension between central and local governance that characterizes and sustains a democratic republic, Gorlewski said. When do kids go back to school? Start dates in different states and districts can be as much as a month or more apart. Parents and teachers weigh in "My kids go back the day after Labor Day and I like starting in September because we get to enjoy the summer," said Julia Fuller, whose kids go to a public school in Jefferson County, New York. "I would love year-round with more breaks to alleviate the need for childcare for two straight months, though." Emily Simril, a former teacher and mother of three children attending school in Greenville, South Carolina, said she prefers the later start dates that are common in southern states. "As a parent and former teacher, I think the earlier start date works well," she said. "For all teachers and middle/high school students to be able to finish the second quarter/first semester prior to winter break is ideal." "We're ready!" Andre Simmons, principal at the Albany Middle School also told USA TODAY. Students in his Dougherty County, Georgia school are headed back on July 31, which is slightly earlier than the usual August start date. However, he thinks the adjustment is overall better for the school's teachers and pupils. "After the pandemic, we realized that we have got to space things out because we have an emotional, mental health crisis going on," he said. "So we need to give people more time, especially teachers." And while you might expect all students to dread going back, Simmons said some of his pupils have told him they're ready. "I think they miss their friends and they're just ready to be back," Simmons said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Back to school? The first day is already here in some states by Sumon Corraya This is a partial figure calculated only on the deaths so far confirmed while investigations continue to establish a definitive count. The unrest in recent weeks has also spread to the outlying areas of the capital. Yesterday Christians gathered in prayer for the victims. Dhaka (AsiaNews) - 75% of those who died in clashes between police and protesters in Bangladesh were children or teenagers. A figure has emerged from information provided by hospitals and relatives of the victims: a total of 210 people were killed, including 113 minors and young people, although detailed information on age, occupation and cause of death is only available for 150 people, most of whom died after bullet wounds. Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan confirmed a death toll of 147, but several national and international campaigns claim that the final number could be much higher, up to more than 500. The count was made difficult for several reasons and also by the fact that some bodies were taken from hospitals by relatives before post-mortem examinations. Local newspapers told the stories of some of the minors involved in the riots, which broke out because of the readmission of quotas in public employment for the descendants of those who fought in the liberation war, but soon turned into anti-government protests. Ifat, 16, was killed in Jatrabari, an area of Dhaka, on 20 July. He was helping an injured person in the street when he was shot. His mother, Kamrun Nahar, said: My son did not commit any crime. He was just trying to help. Even a four-year-old boy, Abdul Ahad, was killed by a bullet on the same day. Locked with his parents in a flat in the Rayerbagh area, he was shot in the eye after moving to the balcony attracted by outside noises. "Everything happened in the blink of an eye. I lost my beloved child. What more can I say about this? the father told the local media. Riya Gop, a six-year-old girl from Narayanganj, was also playing on the roof of her house when she was hit in the head by a bullet. Rushed to Dhaka Medical College, she died five days later on 25 July. The clashes that took place on 20 July also reached Savar, one of the capital's suburbs, in the afternoon. Saad Mahmud, 14, was shot in the left leg after pushing himself near the area of the riots. In connection with the recent violence, about 200 cases have been filed at various police stations throughout Dhaka. There are more than 213,000 charges, most of them against unknown persons. According to court documents, police have arrested more than 2,500 people, including political activists and students, in the last 12 days. Mumtaz Nahar, the mother of Nahid Islam - one of the coordinators of the quota reform movement - called for her son to be released: The children are safe with their parents. What security is there in the DB office? Give me back my son." Nahid and three other protest leaders were arrested by the police and taken to the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective (DB) office. The mother, she continued, fears that Nahid may be tortured again during detention. Meanwhile, six coordinators of the student movement, also in custody in Dhaka, announced the end of the demonstrations in a video sent to the media last night. An announcement that, as many university students pointed out on social media, was probably made under duress following threats from the police. Bangladeshi Christians yesterday held a celebration in memory of the victims. Nirmol Rozario, secretary of the Christian Religious Welfare Trust and president of the Bangladesh Christian Association, called for prayer in a press release, in which he also expressed his condolences to the students' families and prayed for the injured, condemned the violence and called for a thorough investigation into each death. The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries issued a plea after 12 children are killed in a rocket attack on a playground in Majdal Shams, Golan Heights. The Druze are angry at Hezbollah but also at the Israeli government. Catholic bishops call for a stop to the escalation: The future of children and the welfare of our communities hinge upon our ability to transcend hatred and to embrace the principles of compassion and coexistence. Jerusalem (AsiaNews) The memory of the 12 Druze children killed in "an act of unspeakable violence" on Saturday in Majdal Shams must be honoured by renewing our commitment to peace and rejecting all forms of violence. The cycle of violence must end, reads the message of condolences issued by the Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land, after a deadly rocket fell on a playground in a Druze town on the Golan Heights. The incident has increased the risks of an all-out confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Over night, Israeli attacked Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, resulting in two deaths and three wounded. For its part, the Lebanese Shia movement, which has attacked northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas since October while trying to avoid open warfare, continues to deny responsibility for the massacre, blaming a malfunctioning of Israels Iron Dome anti-missile system. Yesterday, 10 of the 12 children who died were laid to rest in an atmosphere of anger and tensions in the Druze towns on the Golan Heights. The community accuses the Israeli government of failing to protect them, while demanding a very harsh reaction against Hezbollah. Ultra-right-wing ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir also came in for strong criticism, which goes back a few years when Israels right-wing pushed for a law that defined Israel as a nation state of the Jewish people", an act seen by the Druze minority as a betrayal. In such a climate of tensions and contradictions, the words of the Catholic bishops of the Holy Land rise above the fray. The loss of these children is an unspeakable tragedy, leaving a profound impact on us all, reads the press release. We urge all parties to seek understanding and mutual respect, for the future of our children and communities depends on it. Enough with this violence, hatred, and contempt! it goes on to say. We earnestly entreat all parties to abandon the path of conflict and arms, and to seek understanding and mutual respect. The future of children and the welfare of our communities hinge upon our ability to transcend hatred and to embrace the principles of compassion and coexistence. Indeed, Nothing will be resolved by the evil of arms and war! Let us not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good! [Letter of St. Paul to Romans 12:21]. May the Lord grant comfort and strength to the families of the victims, and may their memories remind us of the preciousness of life and the urgent need for peace. by Nirmala Carvalho A village panchayat in Uttar Pradesh is said to have ordered the inhumane treatment over an extramarital affair. Police arrested 15 people in connection with the incident. Lucknow (AsiaNews) Pictures of the inhumane treatment inflicted on a woman in a village in Uttar Pradesh are causing a stir in India. The woman was caught talking to her lover while her husband was away. A video of the incident went viral after it was posted online. In it, the woman is seen tied to a tree, her hair cut, and her face darkened with black ink. After this public humiliation, she was beaten in front of her twelve-year-old son and even younger daughters because of her relationship with a younger man. The incident, which shows how serious and deep-rooted violence against women is in some places, took place in Chhotki Ibrahimpur, Hathigawa, a village in Pratapgarh. The local council (panchayat) issued an order the couple be punished, but the womans lover managed to escape and the villagers took it out on the woman. After he fled, the man filed a complaint at a police station with officers coming to the rescue of the unfortunate woman. Some 15 people were reportedly arrested in connection with the affair while police have launched an investigation. by Vladimir Rozanskij Since 1936, when the Stalinist constitution proclaiming democratic freedoms was approved, tens of thousands were relocated from the Ukrainian regions of Vinnitsa, Zitomir, Kiev and Kirovograd to the kolkhoz Avangard in the middle of the steppe. Where, in the name of a modern fish miracle, the Queen of Peace, patroness of Kazakhstan, is worshipped today. Astana (AsiaNews) - In the village of Ozernoe in northern Kazakhstan, between the cities of Petropavlovsk and Koksetau, groups of Poles had settled about 90 years ago, deported to the middle of the steppe from the now Soviet Ukraine. The first big wave dates back to 1936, when the Stalinist constitution proclaiming "democratic freedoms" was approved, while terror, repression and deportations were raging. On April 28 of that year, 35,280 Poles were gathered from the regions of Vinnitsa, Zhitomir, Kiev and Kirovograd, and another 60,000 arrived in 1940-41 from the territories occupied by the Red Army. In Ozernoe, the Avangard kolkhoz was opened to harvest grain, but after the end of the USSR, agricultural activities stopped, most of the inhabitants tried to leave for better places, and those who could returned to Poland, where their ancestors came from. And yet, there is still life in the dying village of the northern steppe, because Ozernoe has become the main place of pilgrimage for Catholics from Kazakhstan, and even people from Poland come here. According to local legend, when in 1941 the deported Poles were dying of hunger and thirst, a lake of spring water suddenly formed near the village, where fish were splashing around. The starving were saved, and the lake disappeared after some time. The local Catholic believers immediately thought of a miracle of the Virgin Mary, who heard their prayers. The site of the saving basin was named Mariamkol, where now stands a tall statue of the Madonna erected in 1997, blessed by the saintly Pope John Paul II before being sent to the site. Already in the early 1990s a small church had been erected, later replaced by a rather large sanctuary, where solemn liturgies are celebrated with a large influx of pilgrims. In 2013 the altar Star of Kazakhstan was consecrated with a bold futuristic design and ornaments of Kazakh tradition, to express the relationship of the Catholic world with the country that welcomed them in such dramatic circumstances. Since 2011 the parish of Ozernoe has officially become the national sanctuary of Our Lady Queen of Peace, protector of Kazakhstan. Every year thousands of faithful from all over the country and abroad go there, reviving the small village of the deportees, where some of their descendants still live, who now have no intention of emigrating. A three-story hotel has also been built in the village, which is not always enough to accommodate all the visitors. In recent days, a group of volunteers from Poland arrived to tidy up the local cemetery, where many of the Catholic martyrs of Kazakhstan are buried, often suffocated by the tall grasses of the steppe. The older ones remember the stories of their parents, uncles and grandparents well, and are somewhat shy about sharing them with the many visitors, including journalists and the curious. The regime of deportation and limitations on people of Polish nationality in these places was cancelled only in 1956, after Stalins death, and rehabilitation began towards the end of the USSR, with a decree by President Mikhail Gorbachev for the recognition of the rights of the victims of political repression in the 1920s and 1950s. The exact numbers of those deported are not easy to establish, between 100 and 250 thousand people; in 1959, 53,000 Poles officially lived in Kazakhstan, and there are currently 32,000 who maintain their ethnicity on their documents, mostly in the northern regions of the country. As Ivan, an 80-year-old Pole who has always lived in Ozernoe, told reporters, I wouldnt have known what to do in Poland, I went there once and I didnt like it here are all the people I love, at least those who havent left. Ivan still works in the fields, and when asked if he doesnt feel tired, he replies: How can you be tired, in a place where you can constantly talk to Jesus and his holy Mother, and moreover in your native Polish?. Photo: Catholic Information Centre of Central Asia/VaticanNews The so-called Darth Vader House in West University Place is back on the market for $3.75 million. Martha Turner Sothebys International The so-called Darth Vader House in West University Place is back on the market for $3.75 million. Martha Turner Sothebys International The so-called Darth Vader House in West University Place is back on the market for $3.75 million. Martha Turner Sothebys International The so-called Darth Vader House in West University Place is back on the market for $3.75 million. Martha Turner Sothebys International The so-called Darth Vader House in West University Place is back on the market for $3.75 million. Martha Turner Sothebys International The famous Houston home nicknamed the "Darth Vader House" is back on the market for $3.75 million, following a legal dispute that involved the former tenant, who was accused of hosting several high-profile events violating West University Place city ordinances. The Star Wars-inspired home was originally designed and built in 1992 by plastic surgeon Dr. Jean Cukier, who modeled the home after stealth fighter jet, though some believe it to look like a certain iconic villain's helmet. The West University Place house is listed by Houston-based real estate company Nitya Capital Realty. Spanning roughly 7,000 square feet, the four-bedroom, five-bathroom home was previously listed for $4.3 million and sold in November 2021. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Harris County Appraisal District records, DV1, LLC has owned the property since March 7, 2022. A lawsuit filed by the City of West University Place alleges that Brent Franklin, a representative of DV1, LLC, lived and sponsored events at the residence which violated the city's zoning regulation. According to evidence provided by the city, Franklin sold $100 tickets for a "private after hour mixer" at the property on May 6, 2023, following the Space City Real Estate Summit 2.0 event. MORE REAL ESTATE: Friendswood mansion formerly owned by Tony Buzbee is for sale When contacted by the city's zoning administrator about the alleged violations of zoning regulations, Franklin replied "Guess I'll just call it a house party. We aren't charging. It's a get together." He proceeded to host a "Darth Vader House - Content Creator Social Gathering" on Sept. 14, 2023 and planned to host a "Darth Vader House 6, 7, 8+ Figure Mastermind for Entrepreneurs," event on Sept. 21, 2023, according to the lawsuit. In response to the lawsuit, DV1, LLC denied the allegations, according to court records. A separate response by Franklin did not appear to be filed. According to court documents from April, the parties were working to resolve the issue without going to trial. The case was moved from the original May trial setting to December. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The home's original owner, Cukier, decided to sell the property in the interest of downsizing. Nadia Carron co-listed the house in 2021 and told the Chronicle that Cukier worked with architect Roger Spears, now Lynn Swisher Spears, to design the Star Wars-inspired home. "He loved the movies. That was his inspiration, Carron told the Chronicle. He sat down and drew on paper how he wanted the house to look inside and outside and worked with an architect to do that. What you see is his baby and his design inside and outside of the house. He made his dream come true. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Correction (July 30, 3:40 p.m.): Photo captions were updated to reflect the house's status and cost as of July 2024. In May 2025, Taiwan could become the first East Asian country with no nuclear energy, upholding a pledge made after Fukushima. However, tensions with Beijing have raised concerns about supplies. Opposition parties are pressing to reopen the issue. Meanwhile, the People's Republic of China has started work on two new reactors, for a total of 26 under construction. Taipei (AsiaNews/Agencies) Taiwan shut down permanently reactor number 1 of the Ma-anshan nuclear power plant on Saturday, the only one active, with the prospect of becoming the first non-nuclear country in East Asia in May 2025, when the licence for the other reactor expires. The shutdown of the plant, which is located in Pingtung county, came as political parties in the capital Taipei continue to be divided over the idea of extending the life of the country's existing atomic energy reactors. Reactor 1 in Ma-anshan came into operation on 27 July 1984 and was thus shut down after exactly forty years. Until now, energy produced by nuclear power contributed 5 per cent of the countrys energy needs. With yesterdays shutdown, this has fallen to 2.8 per cent. Taiwanese authorities expect the shortfall to be met by greater output from a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant, although critics argue that this will increase costs and carbon dioxide emissions. The accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan in 2011 sparked opposition to the use of this energy source in Taiwan. But today the debate over nuclear energy is also fuelled by fears that the People's Republic of China might limit energy supplies to the island through a military blockade. When the Democratic Progressive Party took office in 2016, then-President Tsai Ing-wen said that her goal was to make Taiwan nuclear-free by 2025, setting an energy mix of 50 per cent natural gas, 30 per cent coal and 20 per cent renewables. The current government does not rule out increasing the share of nuclear energy, but argues that the technology must first be improved. Opposition parties, on the other hand, have always supported restarting nuclear reactors. In recent weeks, Taiwanese lawmakers have been debating whether to reverse the government's plan to eliminate nuclear energy, but no vote has been taken. Taiwan expects renewables to make up a quarter of its energy mix by 2030, up from about 12 per cent this year. However, electricity consumption is expected to grow by an average of 2.8 per cent a year until 2033, driven by the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. In the meantime, the People's Republic of China continues to press on building nuclear power plants. Just as Taiwan shut down one reactor, construction work began on two more plants in Ningde, Fujian, and Huaneng, Shandong, both in eastern China, where the first fourth-generation nuclear power plant became operational last December. According to the China Nuclear Energy Association, China has 55 nuclear plants in operation and 26 under construction (the highest number in the world). Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale talks to one of his employees at the front desk of Gallery Furniture on Thursday, March 30, 2023 in Houston.Thursday, March 30, 2023 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer Houston businessman Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale and the person behind the popular social media news site Grizzy's Hood News called on CenterPoint Energy CEO Jason Wells and other executives to resign as backlash over the company's response to Hurricane Beryl continues to grow. McIngvale was joined by Griselda Grizzy Castillo in a video posted to social media Saturday night slamming the company for its response to the deadly storm that killed at least 36 people, including some who were left without air conditioning during the widespread power outages. The two launched an online petition calling for Wells' resignation, which had amassed 3,500 signatures by Sunday night. "In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, Harris County residents faced unprecedented misery," McIngvale said in the video. "For 10 days, our community suffered due to the lack of preparedness by the executives at CenterPoint Energy." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Castillo followed with more criticism, adding that "the total lack of preparation by (CenterPoint) executives left us vulnerable. They failed to act, they failed to prepare and the consequences were dire." "We have heard loud and clear the frustrations of our customers and the community," CenterPoint said in a statement in response to McIngvale and Castillo's criticism. "We are, and will continue, to take the actions outlined in our customer letter as we continue to learn from our internal reviews, as well as listen to the counsel and independent analysis from emergency response experts, and from elected and community stakeholders." CenterPoint and its leaders have been on the receiving end of scrutiny from residents and officials alike. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wells, after being grilled by utility regulators last week from the Public Utility Commission of Texas, dodged questions about his job security and told the Chronicle last Thursday he was focused on improving how the company responds to emergencies in the future. "My focus is on immediately moving to action to improve all aspects around this storm, improving the resiliency of our system for future storms, improving our communications, improving our emergency preparedness and response in the event another storm threatens our system," he said. "That's where my focus is." In response to McIngvale's and Castillo's call for Wells to resign, the CenterPoint media relations team referred the Chronicle to a recent letter that went out to customers in which the company apologized for its slow response to the outages and outlined an improvement plan for future disasters. Included in its plans are: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hardening its distribution system and speed restoration Doubling the size of its vegetation management crews Launching a new user-friendly outage tracker by Aug. 1 Hiring an emergency response leader The company has already faced high-level shakeups since the widespread outages brought on by Beryl. Lynnae Wilson, CenterPoint Energys senior vice president of electric business who reported directly to Wells, was confirmed to have left the company recently. Wilson led all aspects of CenterPoints electric distribution, transmission and generation utilities serving the Houston region and southwest Indiana since January 2023. A CenterPoint spokesperson previously declined to comment on when and why Wilson left the company. Erdogan again strongly condemned Israels continuing military operation in Gaza during a speech devoted to his countrys defense industry. We must be very strong so that Israel can't do these ridiculous things to Palestine. Just like we entered Karabakh, just like we entered Libya, we might do similar to them, he told a meeting of his ruling AK Party in his hometown of Rize. There is no reason why we cannot do this ... We must be strong so that we can take these steps, he added in televised remarks cited by Reuters. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz hit back at Erdogan, saying that the Turkish leader is following in the footsteps of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein who was executed after the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq. He should remember what happened there and how it ended, Katz wrote in a post on X. Turkey provided strong diplomatic and military support to Azerbaijan during the Karabakh war that broke out in September 2020. Turkish combat drones heavily used by the Azerbaijani army are believed to have been a key factor behind Bakus military victory in the six-week hostilities. According to the Armenian military, F-16 fighter jets of the Turkish Air Force, deployed in Azerbaijan shortly before the war, also participated in it, striking civilian and military targets across Karabakh. Some Armenian and Karabakh officials alleged at the time that Turkish ground forces were also involved in the Azerbaijans offensive military operations. Ankara and Baku denied such involvement. Both Azerbaijani and Turkish flags were hoisted in the strategic Karabakh town of Shushi (Shusha) right after its fall in November 2020 which was followed by a Russian-brokered truce. Some 3,000 Turkish troops reportedly marched in a victory parade held in Baku in December 2020. Speaking during the parade, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev thanked Erdogan for his resolute and brotherly stance. In addition, Western media reports backed up Armenias as well as Frances claims that Turkey recruited thousands of members of Turkish-backed Syrian rebel groups and sent them to fight on Azerbaijans side. Ankara denied that as well. Incidentally, Israel too supplied weapons to Azerbaijan before and during the 2020 war. Armenia recalled its ambassador in Tel Aviv in protest just days after its outbreak. Bakus relationship with the Jewish state remains cordial despite the Turkish-Israeli tensions. 29 July 2024 16:39 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more In the first five months of 2024, Azerbaijans natural gas exports to Turkiye reached 4.68 billion cubic meters, marking a 5.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth reinforces Azerbaijans position as a leading natural gas supplier to Turkiye, contributing to 35% of Turkiye's total gas imports during this period. The data, reported by the Energy Market Regulatory Authority of Turkiye (EPDC), also highlights notable trends in the natural gas market dynamics. Access to paid information is limited Find the plan that suits you best. 29 July 2024 12:14 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Negotiations are currently underway with Saudi Arabian companies interested in investing in Azerbaijan's energy sector, according to Essam bin Saleh Al-Jutaili, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports. Ambassador Al-Jutaili revealed that Saudi Arabias SALIC company is actively exploring investment opportunities in both Garabagh and broader regions of Azerbaijan. We are leaving the task of identifying investment opportunities to the investors and business community themselves, Al-Juteyli noted. A delegation of Saudi investors is scheduled to visit Azerbaijan in September, with their meetings being organized under the auspices of the Agency for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises (KOBIA). There is significant potential for agricultural development in the Garabagh region. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture has provided us with detailed information on agricultural zones and investment opportunities in Azerbaijan, highlighting the benefits available to potential investors. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 13:41 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The renowned Mexican newspaper "Milenio" has published an article by Professor Talya Ishcan of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, discussing the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, which will be hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan, this November, Azernews reports, citing the foreign media outlets. The Azerbaijani embassy in Mexico reported that Ishcan highlighted COP29s significance as a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change. The article underscores Azerbaijans commitment to sustainability and its transition to a low-carbon economy, given its strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Ishcan praised Azerbaijan for its inclusivity and multiculturalism, noting its role as chair of the Non-Aligned Movement and its proactive stance in addressing climate change. She commended Azerbaijans progress in sustainability, including significant investments in renewable energy such as solar and wind power, and its efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. She specifically mentioned the wind energy potential of the Caspian Sea, estimated at around 157 GW, and recent developments in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar and wind plants and hydroelectric projects. The article also discusses Mexicos stance on climate change, highlighting the countrys commitment under its new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, an environmental activist. Ishcan noted Mexicos active role as a G20 member and its shared challenges with Azerbaijan in adapting to climate change and transitioning to renewable energy. Ishcan emphasized the importance of climate financing for developing countries, noting Mexico's vulnerability to climate impacts. She highlighted the potential benefits of COP29 discussions on climate finance, which will address green infrastructure projects, renewable energy, and resilience programs. In concluding, Ishcan reflected on the strengthened relations between Mexico and Azerbaijan, noting their shared interests in education, culture, and environmental protection. She stressed that COP29 presents a valuable opportunity for both countries to deepen their commitment to climate action and explore collaborative solutions under Sheinbaum's leadership. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 15:16 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more Mrs. Gwi Yeop Son, the Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia at the United Nations Development Coordination Office, recently held a meeting with Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Azernews reports. The discussion centered on the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which Azerbaijan will host later this year. Mrs. Son, who oversees UN development efforts across Europe and Central Asia, brought her extensive experience in international climate policy to the table. Minister Babayev, responsible for overseeing Azerbaijan's environmental policies and climate action initiatives, shared insights on the country's preparations for the high-profile conference. Their exchange of views covered a range of topics crucial to the success of COP29, including logistical arrangements, key agenda items, and strategic goals. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts required to address global climate challenges and ensure a productive and impactful conference. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 11:39 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Azerbaijan Culture Minister Adil Karimli has received the Serbian Culture Minister, co-chairman of the Inter-Governmental Commission between Azerbaijan and Serbia Nikola Selakovic to discuss prospects of cooperation, Azernews reports. Speaking at the meeting, Adil Karimli emphasized that the relations between Azerbaijan and Serbia are developing comprehensively on the basis of the relations between the leaders of the two countries based on sincere friendship and mutual trust. The minister noted wide prospects for cultural cooperation between the two countries. At the same time, there is a legal basis for cooperation in the field of culture. In 2011, an agreement on cooperation in the field of culture was signed between Azerbaijan and Serbia. Nikola Selakovic expressed his gratitude for the sincere reception and highly appreciated the meeting of the Inter-Governmental Commission between Azerbaijan and Serbia held in Baku. During the conversation, a wide format of cooperation in various fields of culture was discussed. It was brought to attention that within the framework of the 29th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 29), scheduled for November, there will be discussions on the impact of climate change on culture, as well as the role of culture in environmental protection. Serbia was invited to participate in COP29. Nikola Selakovic in turn, invited his Azerbaijani counterpart Adil Karimli to for an official visit to Serbia. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 14:36 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more National Carpet Museum has presented Daryanur Carpet, which belongs to Garabagh Group, Azernews reports. The carpet was made by the National Carpet Museum for the Janis Akuraters Museum in Latvia. The Azerbaijani Ambassador to Latvia Elnur Sultanov, Speaker of the Saeima (Latvian Parliament) Daiga Mierina, director of the National Carpet Museum Amina Malikova attended the carpet presentation. In his speech, Elnur Sultanov underlined that thirty years have passed since the establishment of the diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Latvia. The Ambassador brought to the attention of the event participants that the topic of carpets occupies an important place in the cultural cooperation between the two countries. Speaker of the Saeima (Latvian Parliament) Daiga Mierina recalled with pleasure her visit to Azerbaijan this May, noting that the mentioned event was a symbol of cooperation and contributed to the enrichment of bilateral cultural relations. Director of the National Carpet Museum Amina Malikova informed the ceremony participants about the museum's activity. She also expressed the museum's interest in cooperation with Latvian colleagues in the future. A symposium "Carpet - home decoration. A symposium on "East-West story" was also organized as part of the event, bringing together Azerbaijani and Latvian researchers. The agenda of the symposium covered the creation process of Daryanur Carpet, the activities of the Janis Akuraters Museum, the role of carpets in the Latvian historical interiors, Latvian writers who lived in Azerbaijan in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially the book "Dance of Death" written by Yanis Yaunsudrabinsh and translated into Azerbaijani. The symposium participants also exchanged views on different topics. In conclusion, the Azerbaijani national dances were presented by Buta Dance Ensemble operating in Latvia, selected pieces from the Azerbaijani poetry were recited by actors of Latvian National Theater Gundars Grasberg. Founded in 1967, the National Carpet Museum holds more than 14,000 exhibits of the finest Azerbaijani carpets. Initiated by eminent carpet artist Latif Karimov, the museum is beautiful inside and out. The museum's new building is designed in the form of a rolled carpet. Now, the museum hosts multiple events, including international symposiums, conferences, and various exhibitions. In 2019, the museum received national status for its significant contribution to promoting Azerbaijani carpet weaving art. In 2020, the Carpet Museum enriched its collection with a beautiful pile of carpets purchased by the Culture Ministry at the Sartirana Textile Show in Italy. The 19th-century Guba carpet "Ugakh" was donated to the Carpet Museum, while the Garabagh carpet "Chelebi" enriched the collection of the museum's Shusha branch. For four years, the Carpet Museum won the Travellers' Choice Awards. The award proves once again that the professional activity of the National Carpet Museum is highly appreciated by visitors from all over the world. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The School of Restoration of Historical Monuments (Mak'TAB) has won the global award, established by the World Heritage Institute of Training and Research in Asia and the Pacific (WHITRAP) under the UNESCO auspices, Azernews reports. Initiated by the Administration of Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve, Mak'TAB was named best in Star of Discovery category of the 2024 Global Awards for World Heritage Education Innovative Cases competition. Mak'TAB was selected from more than 100 nominees worldwide. The award presentation ceremony took place at the side-event organized during UNESCO's 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in India. Presentation on the "School of Restoration of Historical Monuments", where MakTAB was showcased to the audience as an "Exemplary Case", Azernews reports. Mak'TAB was founded thanks to the efforts of the Administration of Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve, the Culture Ministry, the Ministry of Education and Science, State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, State Tourism Agency, Azerbaijan Architecture and Construction University. The main goal of the project is to support various activities and attract restorers in Azerbaijan to training programs aimed at enhancing their expertise in historical monument restoration. Note that the National Commission of the People's Republic of China for UNESCO launched the Global Awards for World Heritage Education Innovative Cases (AWHEIC) in 2022 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention. The competition highlights exemplary educational initiatives of global heritage significance. It also provides an international platform for heritage education professionals to collaborate and exchange experiences. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 15:52 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more COP29 Lead Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev discussed a sustainable partnership to raise climate action ambitions with a United Nations (UN) official, Azernews reports, citing the post shared on COP29's official "X" account. "The parties reaffirmed sustainable partnership to raise climate action ambitions, based on Azerbaijan's leadership at COP29," the post reads. COP29 Lead Negotiator @YalchinRafiyev and UN Development Coordination Office Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, @gwi_son had fruitful discussions on #COP29 Presidencys initiatives and continued partnership in the coming months and beyond. pic.twitter.com/XRGUs1i9nt COP29 AZ (@COP29_AZ) July 29, 2024 Recall that Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, will host the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) for the first time in the region from November 1122, 2024. The decision was made at the plenary session of COP28 on December 11. Azerbaijan successfully participated in the COP28 held in Abu Dhabi last year. Azerbaijan will take the opportunity to bring heads of state and governments, civil society organisations, business, and international institutions together in the South Caucasus to discuss climate change, measures to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement, and focus on long-term climate strategies and goals. It is worth noting that Azerbaijan confirmed its commitment to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by 35 percent by 2030 and increase this target by 40 percent by 2050. Fulfilling the commitments under the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015 and actively working in this regard are priority issues for the government of Azerbaijan. The Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has been held annually since 1995. The event aims to assess the progress made in combating climate change around the world. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Jhair Romero is the Latino communities reporter for the Houston Chronicle, covering the businesses, politics and cultures of the growing Hispanic population across Greater Houston and Texas. He was part of a team that won first place in investigative reporting at the 2024 National Headliner Awards for coverage that exposed the escalating human costs of Operation Lone Star. Before joining the newsroom as a full-time reporter in December 2022, he was a Chronicle summer intern while studying at the University of Houston. Jhair is a South Florida native, but hes called Houston home since 2015. Reach him at jhair.romero@houstonchronicle.com. 29 July 2024 14:23 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Nicolas Maduro Moros on the occasion of his re-election as President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "Dear Mr. President, I sincerely congratulate you on your re-election as President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The dynamic development of Azerbaijan-Venezuela relations is gratifying. I believe that we will make further joint efforts for the successful continuation of friendly ties and mutually beneficial cooperation, both bilaterally and multilaterally, between our countries in line with the interests of our peoples. Once again, I extend my congratulations and best regards to you, and wish you success in your responsible activities for the well-being of the friendly people of Venezuela. Sincerely, Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Baku, 29 July 2024" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 20:00 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more Political tension between Armenia and Azerbaijan continues. Peace talks between the two countries have almost come to a deadlock. Following Armenia's refusal to attend the meeting on the UK-proposed peace platform and its avoidance of negotiations with Azerbaijan, the start of provocations against the Azerbaijani army positions in the Tovuz, Kalbajar, and Lachin regions indicates Yerevan's desire for another war in the region. However, the Pashinyan administration, which welcomes its Western allies once a week in Yerevan, is showing peace in words and conflict in practice. It is impossible to know whether Yerevan is testing Baku's patience or is simply trying to make Azerbaijan look like an aggressor in the eyes of the Western alliance through military sabotage. In turn, Azerbaijan responded with a stern statement to Armenia's provocation in the Tovuz direction. Official Baku explicitly stated that if provocations continue, necessary response measures will be taken using all means available in its arsenal for self-defence. In a comment for Azernews, political analyst Tofiq Abbasov said that Armenia is acting on the desires of foreign states. "Since Armenia is not a sovereign state, it has fully prepared itself for the role of a victim. We see that France, the United States, India, and other countries burden it with tasks that could threaten it, and Armenia complies with them," he noted. The expert said that the creation of the Armenian state was part of a mission. "In general, the presence of the Armenian state on the world map was a mission arising from the duties of certain political circles in the Western alliance and Russia. By placing Armenia in the centre of the Islamic-Turkic world, they aim to use it for their policy of fragmentation when necessary," the expert stated. Abbasov noted that France is the first among the states pushing Armenia into war. "First and foremost, we see the destructive and provocative role of France. This country is generally engaged in provoking everyone, regardless of race, gender, or religion. For example, the Olympics in Paris are observed with great scandal. During this event, French TV channels flatter Armenia with sweet words, almost as if receiving a bribe. On the other hand, they show bias against Azerbaijan, trying to demean Azerbaijanis," the expert emphasised. The political expert recalled that France also attempted to create provocations during the Olympics. "It should be noted that France has violated the charter of the International Olympic Committee. In the past, wars would stop when the Olympics began. But as the host of these games, France is engaged in transferring the ideology of war to the Caucasus instead of peace. This in itself is a great crime," T. Abbasov said. The political analyst said that the Azerbaijani side closely monitors all these steps. "Azerbaijan is fully aware of what is happening in the region because the control is with Baku. Not just because we are a winning side. Azerbaijan is generally a country with great responsibilities in the region. Azerbaijan works hard to establish peace, tranquility, and security in the South Caucasus. This is the reason for such tolerant behaviour towards Armenian provocations. Armenia acts against these intentions," he said. Tofiq Abbasov stated that the Armenian authorities do not consider the welfare of their own people. "It is clear that Yerevan acts on the orders of other states. But where is the mind of Armenia's ruling circles? Where is their political thinking? Why does Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan not think about the welfare of his own people?" The political analyst also said that if Armenian provocations continue, Azerbaijan will take serious response measures. "After the war, Azerbaijan has repeatedly warned Armenia. President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly stated that if Armenia crosses the red lines, it will immediately receive an appropriate response. Azerbaijan is already a stable power centre in the region. Official Baku is aware of all processes. Armenia's political trickery will receive the response it deserves and will once again face failure, as doomed to see always." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 19:45 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva The Japanese Ministry of Defense has signed the first contract to supply the United States with missiles for the American-developed Patriot PAC-3 missile defense systems. This is intended to replenish the reserves of the US army, which are seriously declining due to the transfer of such weapons to Ukraine, Azernews reports. According to the Japanese military, the contract amount is about 3 billion yen (about $ 20 million at the current exchange rate). The number of missiles transferred to the United States is not specified. Patriot PAC-3 missile defense systems and missiles are manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Heavy Engineering Corporation under an American license. Back in December 2023, the Japanese government allowed their sale to the United States on the condition that these weapons would not be directly transferred to Ukraine without Tokyo's sanction. A joint document on the results of the meeting of the heads of foreign policy and military departments of the United States and Japan held in Tokyo on July 28 according to the formula "2+2" stated that the two countries would study the issue of joint production of military equipment. Specifically, AMRAAM air-to-air missiles with a flight range from 105 to 180 km, depending on the modification, as well as missiles for Patriot PAC-3 missile defense systems were named. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 July 2024 21:17 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva China one of the largest countries in the world, is also opening its doors to saffron, which is grown in the Bakhmali district of the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan, Azernews reports. After several years of in-depth and analytical research, the interdepartmental commission of Uzbekistan and China issued a permit for the supply of saffron from Bakhmal to China. The publications note that with the development of saffron production in Uzbekistan, the geography of its exports is also expanding. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted BMB Holding permission to export its own saffron, BMB Za'faron, to the country. In addition, the product has received a USDA Organic certificate from the US Department of Agriculture, confirming the presence of at least 95 percent of natural, environmentally friendly ingredients in the products, which will allow the company to supply the BMB Za'faron brand to North American countries. --- 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. Minnesota was ranked No. 1 on a list of states with the best healthcare systems by personal finance website Wallethub. The July 29 rankings compared all 50 states and Washington, D.C., giving each state a score based on three major categories: healthcare cost, access and outcomes. The three main dimensions were broken down into 44 metrics, including cost of a medical visit, quality of public hospital systems and mortality rate. Here are the top 10 states with the best healthcare systems, along with their score out of 100: 1. Minnesota: 67.38 2. Rhode Island: 67 3. South Dakota: 65.47 4. Iowa: 65.09 5. New Hampshire: 64.08 6. Massachusetts: 64.05 7. Utah: 63.79 8. Vermont: 63.64 9. Maine: 63.6 10. Colorado: 62.6 State Sen. Paul Bettencourt called for an investigation of CenterPoint's $800 contract with a small company for generators that have mostly gone unused. Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle Whats worse than CenterPoint forcing consumers to pay $800 million for generators that mostly sat idle after Hurricane Beryl knocked out power to millions? Defrauding consumers by charging us way too much for the generators around 50% more than we could have paid through another vendor. State Sen. Paul Bettencourt raised the specter of fraud in CenterPoints selection of a small, little known company to provide the generators rather than a well-established company with a much cheaper bid. Bettencourt, R-Houston, condemned what he portrayed as the overcharging of ratepayers in fiery comments Monday morning in the first meeting of the Texas Senates Special Committee on Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness, Recovery and Electricity. Throughout the meeting, senators recited names of some of the 36 people throughout the Houston region known to have died during the storm 19 from the heat before pivoting back to their anger over the extended power outages. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bass-ackwards, is how Bettencourt said his friend Mattress Mack might put it, describing CenterPoints apparent decision to forgo important spending on vegetation management while wasting ratepayers' money on massive generators the company acquired at a profit margin approaching 10%. If I was an inspector general, Id be looking at this contract for fraud, Bettencourt told senators and a packed hearing room in Austin. It is fraudulent for the taxpayers of this state, through ratepayers, which is effectively the same thing, to pay for generators that have markups over a bid of 44 to 60% more than their competitors. CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells acknowledged that the massive generators, which have never been used, added about $30 million to the company's bottom line for shareholders. Wells apologized for many aspects of CenterPoint's handling of Hurricane Beryl, from pre-storm staging to communication failures. But he stood by the company's decision to acquire the big generators even though the company says 15 were intended to be used only in the extremely rare event of a state grid failure, as we saw during Winter Storm Uri: I dont see it as an overspend given the risks that were trying to manage for our customers," Wells said. How can it make sense, though, for CenterPoint to invest hundreds of millions on that rare scenario and so little in preventing and responding to the much more common scenario of high winds like the ones Beryl brought that knocked out distribution lines to homes and businesses? Some lawmakers suggested CenterPoint put profits before people. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In an editorial last week, we condemned CenterPoints 2021 acquisition of massive, so-called mobile generators that, as it turned out, were too big to move when Houston desperately needed power restored. Bettencourts comments Monday highlighted a new wrinkle: that the little company that CenterPoint chose to provide the generators, Life Cycle Power, charged far more than the closest bid. We already knew that state administrative judges scrutinizing the deal had recommended against it because CenterPoints bidding process was rushed and the generators seemed an imprudent expense, considering the questionable benefit to consumers. We should also mention that Life Cycles then-CEO had been convicted for flouting environmental regulations. The Public Utility Commission, however, went ahead and approved the charges to ratepayers. It's unclear why, and we applaud Bettencourt for trying to find out. Wells, for his part, took issue with the idea that the winning bidder, Life Cycle, overcharged, saying that another bidder didn't meet certain requirements and that Life Cycle's operations costs were projected to be far lower. But Bettencourt said Life Cycle was only cheaper based on "preposterous" assumptions CenterPoint made that the biggest generators would be used far more often than reason allows. "It doesn't smell good at all," state Sen. Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, told Wells. "There's more to this story that I hope comes out sooner rather than later." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Were glad to hear Bettencourt say hes considering legislation to claw back some of the exorbitant costs to ratepayers, who are already paying around $1 more a month for the generators and may see around $3 added to their bills. This is unconscionable, Bettencourt said. We have spent the money and the ratepayers are paying, in the wrong place, to solve a problem that might not happen for quite some time, he said. This has taken years to come out, and it only comes out after two storms force it out into the public. And I see no proactive action by anyone in executive management at CenterPoint to do anything about this. Not only should we see urgent action from CenterPoint's CEO, we should see it from the Public Utility Commission of Texas. PUC members are appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott and have a duty to protect consumers from irresponsible decisions made by a monopoly its supposed to be regulating. As the current chair of the PUC, Thomas Gleeson, acknowledged under questioning, the regulatory agency has clawed back money for ratepayers in the past when a utility cut maintenance spending before a disastrous 1997 ice storm. Before Houston Chronicle reporters Neena Satija and Mike Morris reported two weeks ago on the generators, Texans were largely in the dark about the deal and many details, including the astronomical cost. Something doesnt add up. Why did CenterPoint rush the bidding process? Why go with the high bid of a tiny company that, as it turned out, couldnt even meet initial deadlines to provide the generators? Why prioritize massive generators meant for catastrophic bulk power failures instead of buying more smaller generators, which CenterPoint did deploy after Beryl and and which the company now says it needs more of? How many more cooling centers or nursing homes could have benefited? Advertisement Article continues below this ad State senators on the committee tried to determine why a utility company might be motivated to blow hundreds of millions of dollars on unused generators and underspend on simply cutting back trees from power lines. Gleeson, the PUC chair, explained that, essentially, CenterPoint simply breaks even on trimming trees while they make almost 10% in profits, by spending on generators. The only thing worse than waste is fraud. If thats what happened here, we urge lawmakers to get to the bottom of it and weed out who is responsible. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Meanwhile, Bettencourt should follow through on his idea to claw our money back. Similar efforts to protect consumers after Winter Storm Uri failed. We got stuck with the bill. Not this time. Mississippi was ranked last on a list of states with the best healthcare systems by personal finance website Wallethub. The July 29 rankings compared all 50 states and Washington, D.C., giving each state a score based on three major categories: healthcare cost, access and outcomes. The three main dimensions were broken down into 44 metrics, including cost of a medical visit, quality of public hospital systems and mortality rate. Here are the bottom 10 states with the best healthcare systems, along with their score out of 100: 1. Mississippi: 46.01 2. Alabama: 48.19 3. West Virginia: 48.46 4. Georgia: 48.61 5. Oklahoma: 48.93 6. Alaska: 49.13 7. Texas: 49.39 8. Arkansas: 49.48 9. Louisiana: 50.38 10. Florida: 50.77 In June, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and state legislators reached an agreement to delay the start of minimum wage increases for healthcare workers to at least October. However, some hospitals have already started raising pay, CalMatters reported July 29. Mr. Newsom signed SB 525 in October 2023 to gradually raise the minimum wage for healthcare workers to $25 per hour through a series of annual increases ranging from $18 to $25 per hour, with healthcare facilities expected to reach a $25 per hour minimum wage by June 1, 2028, or, for some in rural locations, 2033. The governor then indicated he wanted to potentially delay the increases in the face of the state's projected budget shortfall. He signed SB 828 in May, which postponed the start of the wage adjustments to July 1, the beginning of the state's fiscal year. Mr. Newsom and lawmakers then agreed in June to push back the deadline until at least Oct. 15. However, about 1,000 Teamsters members who work for San Bernardino County will see a raise ahead of the deadline, union leaders said, according to CalMatters. This includes housekeeping and linen workers, who will receive $18 an hour. Oakland-based University of California also announced in May that it would begin increasing minimum hourly wages for healthcare workers beginning June 1. The hourly minimum wage for designated healthcare employees climbed to $23 per hour at that time, according to the university. It will increase to $24 per hour in June 2025 and to $25 per hour in June 2026. Overall, about 426,000 California healthcare workers are projected to see raises from the law, according to CalMatters, which cites estimates from the Labor Center at UC Berkeley. The law excludes some workers, including minimum wage employees at medical groups with fewer than 25 physicians. Amid growing concerns over class-action lawsuits against healthcare organizations following data breaches, state lawmakers are taking action to limit liabilities for these organizations, Politico reported July 29. Tennessee has recently joined Connecticut, Ohio and Utah in enacting measures to protect organizations that adhere to specified security protocols from what lawmakers view as excessive legal repercussions. According to Politico, the move to mitigate liability follows a series of high-profile cyberattacks targeting the healthcare sector. These breaches have threatened patient safety and inflicted financial damage, prompting legislative responses aimed at shielding healthcare providers from undue legal burdens. In June, Florida came close to passing similar legislation, but Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed the bill, arguing that it failed to sufficiently encourage robust cybersecurity practices. However, the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks and the resulting surge in lawsuits have underscored the need for balanced legal protections for healthcare providers. According to Politico's analysis, more than 144 million Americans had their health data compromised in 2023, nearly triple the figure from the previous year. Florida state Rep. Mike Giallombardo, a cybersecurity firm owner and advocate for the state's liability-limiting bill, explained the predicament faced by healthcare organizations. "What happens is they get hacked and then by law they have to report there is a breach, and then you have these class-action suits pop up," he told Politico. "The victim is being sued for tens of millions of dollars for so-called negligence when the fact is they weren't negligent. Nobody's immune from this." However, this legislative trend has met resistance from attorneys and patients, who argue that healthcare firms are not doing enough to protect sensitive patient data. For example, critics contend that the new laws prioritize limiting financial liabilities over improving cybersecurity measures. Thomas Loeser, a partner at Cotchett Pitre and McCarthy, which represents consumers in class-action lawsuits, expressed skepticism about the motives behind the legislation. "These [health care] companies make millions and millions of dollars, and they just profit," he told Politico. "They don't spend the money to protect the information they collect from consumers because nobody has made them do it." Madison, Wis.-based UW Health and Epic have released a comprehensive report outlining recommendations for policymakers navigating the integration of AI into healthcare. On June 5, Washington, D.C., became the epicenter for discussions on the future of artificial intelligence in healthcare as UW Health and Epic Systems convened a summit featuring many of the nation's foremost experts, according to a July 29 news release from the health system. The event brought together two dozen leaders from healthcare providers, technology sectors, academia and government to delve into ways AI can reshape patient care and enhance provider efficiency. Chero Goswami, chief information and digital officer at UW Health, emphasized the growing and evolving use cases of AI, noting that it is increasingly employed to draft responses to patient inquiries in online portals and transcribe patient visits into summary notes. AI is also making strides in diagnostics, such as enhancing image analysis in radiology and predicting patient fall risks, he said. "AI has the potential to augment clinical care and automate administrative tasks, improving access to care and enhancing the patient and provider experience," Mr. Goswami said. "With persistent workforce shortages, tools like AI are essential for alleviating administrative burdens on our healthcare providers." One of the report's primary recommendations is that health systems should focus on leveraging AI to reduce workforce burdens, improve efficiency and enhance patient outcomes by integrating the technology into existing systems rather than using it as an isolated tool. The report also calls for federal regulations that strike a balance between fostering innovation and protecting patient data with robust cybersecurity measures. Lastly, the report suggests that regulatory bodies should tailor regulations to the types of AI being used and their applications, ensuring appropriate governance that benefits both patients and providers. "The rapid advancement of AI presents challenges for its implementation, usage and regulation," Mr. Goswami said. "However, with collaboration across the health and technology sectors and support from governmental partners, AI can deliver positive outcomes in healthcare." The full report can be accessed here. Four of the largest for-profit hospital operators reported mixed earnings in the second quarter of 2024; three systems reported increases in first-quarter net income while one system posted a net loss for the second consecutive quarter: 1. Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare reported a net income of nearly $1.5 billion in the second quarter of 2024, up from $1.2 billion over the same period in 2023. Revenues for the three months ended June 30 totaled $17.5 billion, up from $15.9 billion in the same quarter last year, while expenses were $15.3 billion, up from $14.1 billion. HCA CEO Sam Hazen said "results for the second quarter were positive and reflected strong demand for our services." 2. Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems reported an operating income of $238 million in the second quarter, down slightly from $246 million during the same period last year. Other expenses, primarily $216 million in interest costs, left CHS with a net loss of $13 million in the second quarter, compared to a net loss of $38 million in the prior-year period. Second-quarter revenue increased 0.8% year over year to $3.14 billion while expenses increased 1.2% to $2.9 billion. CEO Tim Hingtgen said CHS had "another solid quarter that includes same-store, year-over-year improvements in operating results, supported by strong volume growth and expense management." 3. Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare reported $259 million in second-quarter net income, a 111% year-over-year increase. Revenue for the period were $5.1 billion, up from $5.08 billion during the same quarter in 2023. Operating income was $761 million for the second quarter, a 26% increase from $604 million during the same period last year. Tenet CEO Saum Sutaria, MD, said results "significantly exceeded" expectations for the quarter and were "driven by volume and revenue growth as well as sustained fundamentally strong operating performance." 4. King of Prussia, Pa.-based Universal Health Services reported $289.2 million in net income for the second quarter, a 68.8% increase from the $171.3 million it posted in the same quarter last year. Second-quarter revenue hit $3.9 billion, up from $3.5 billion in the same quarter in 2023, while expenses hit $3.5 billion, up from $3.3 billion. Based on operating trends and financial results from the first half of 2024, UHS raised its 2024 forecast: it is expecting an adjusted EDITA between $2.15 billion and $2.23 billion for the year ending Dec. 31, up from its previous forecast of $1.93 billion and $2.02 billion. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago has laid off a "very small" number of employees after a comprehensive budget review, the hospital confirmed in a July 27 statement shared with Becker's. "Lurie Children's is undertaking a comprehensive review of our budget to ensure we are in the strongest possible position to sustain our mission for many years to come. It is through this lens that we are identifying and acting upon opportunities to increase operating efficiency and support our longer-term growth," the statement said, adding the review resulted in a "very small reduction" in team members across the organization. The hospital declined to confirm the number of positions affected. In Illinois, employers are required to submit a WARN notice when a layoff affects 250 or more full-time employees. The job reductions at Lurie Children's, which were first reported by Fox affiliate WFLD, did not trigger a WARN notice. "We take seriously the impact these decisions have on our teams and are committed to treating everyone with respect and compassion," the hospital said in its statement. "At the same time, we are confident these are the right decisions for our organization's future as we look to better serve children and families in Illinois and beyond." The news comes as the hospital continues to grapple with the fallout of a Jan. 31 cyberattack that took its internet, phones and MyChart down. It took nearly four months for the hospital to reactivate all of its affected systems and in June, Lurie Children's revealed more than 791,000 patients had their data breached as a result of the attack. It is now facing a federal class-action lawsuit over the data breach. Dallas-based Steward Health Care has again filed a notice to extend the sale deadline for some of its hospitals and physician group, Stewardship Health. Steward, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy May 6, has pushed the auction for Stewardship Health from July 25 to Aug. 6. The sale objection deadline is now set for Aug. 9 with a sale hearing set for Aug. 13, according to aJuly 28 court notice obtained by Becker's. The health system has also extended a bid deadline for its Arizona hospitals to Aug. 12, with an Aug. 19 sale objection deadline and an Aug. 22 sale hearing. The news comes after the financially troubled health system shared plans to close two of its Massachusetts hospitals, Dorchester-based Carney Hospital and Ayer-based Nashoba Valley Medical Center, on or around Aug. 31. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has dedicated $30 million to Steward's state hospitals to ensure operations through the end of August. The bid deadline for Stewardship Health and Steward's hospitals in Arkansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania and St. Joseph's Medical Center in Houston have passed and will not be extended, the notice said. Elkins, W.Va.-based Davis Health System, a network of 17 hospitals, including three hospital affiliates that joined Charleston, W.Va.-based Vandalia Health last year, is making various leadership changes. On July 29, the system confirmed several leadership changes in June to Becker's, including the retirement of president and CEO, Vance Jackson. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Vance for his 10 years of service to the organization and wish him all the best in his future endeavors," a statement said. DHS also welcomed back Mark Doak, former CEO of the organization, who returned as interim president. "We are confident that his return will ensure a seamless transition and continue to drive our organization towards excellence," the system statement said. DHS officially joined Vandalia Health in December 2023. Vandalia formed in 2022 through the merger of Mon Health System and CAMC Health System. The recent leadership changes are part of what DHS described as ongoing efforts to ensure that DHS and Vandalia "remain at the forefront of healthcare innovation and quality care." DHS confirmed to Becker's that other leadership transitions included Kathy Sturm, RN, former chief nursing officer, and Jon Steen, former vice president of human resources. "Leadership changes within our organization were made as part of our ongoing efforts to align our strategic vision and goals with the evolving needs of our business and community," a spokesperson for the health system said. "We are in the process of recruiting to replace these positions, as well as the president of Davis Health System, as it is important to have local leadership who are invested in the community that we serve." DHS includes Davis Medical Center in Elkins, Broaddus Hospital in Philippi, W.Va., and Webster Memorial Hospital in Webster Springs, W.Va. Finding footing as a new chief medical officer looks different for each executive at each hospital, but at children's hospitals, there are different layers to consider in a leadership role. Results from the 2024 National Resident Matching Program showed that residency positions in pediatric medicine dropped by 5% year-over-year from 97.1% in 2023 to only 92% of offered residency spots in pediatrics getting filled in 2024. This change resulted in an increase of 164 more positions that went unfilled in the specialty this year, than in 2023. Additionally, 47.6% of MD seniors matched to pediatric categorical positions in 2024, a decline of 7.2% from 2023, according to the data. "Children's hospitals play an essential role in kids' health and well-being by providing specialized care, crucial research, essential education, and vital community outreach," Torey Mack, MD, chief medical officer of the Children's Hospital Association said in a June news release. "However, when it comes to operational metrics, children's hospitals are often benchmarked against adult hospitals that provide pediatric care." The ongoing, nationwide physician shortage can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword for executives in children's hospitals, a spokesperson from the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society confirmed to Becker's. For instance, there is a major shortage of infectious disease physicians nationwide, with 80% of counties in the U.S. not even having one, according to the American Medical Association. Then, there is also a shortage of pediatric physicians. For children's hospitals, these issues overlap, with an even greater shortage of pediatric infectious disease specialists nationwide. Therefore, finding the right staff for specialty care at children's hospitals can be a challenge. "This year's national pediatric residency match data show a very worrisome, dwindling percentage of medical students entering pediatrics. Of course, those new residents serve as our substrate for future subspecialty fellows," William Steinbach, MD, president of PIDS wrote to members in a letter. "The national pediatric subspecialty match data were not much different, showcasing that many pediatric specialties are going to have massive workforce shortages in the immediate and near future." "One could argue there is no single larger issue in our field, or in any field, than the workforce comprised of all of us," Dr. Steinbach added. Data from a June 2024 report compiled by the Children's Hospital Association revealed that pediatric patients today are entering hospitals with slightly more severe illnesses, indicating "a slightly sicker cohort of patients now versus 2019," according to the release. Inpatient and observation cases went up at children's hospitals in every region of the U.S., except the Northeast, which saw a decline, indicating overall that "childrens hospitals in the West and Northeast regions may have had a different experience over the last three year compared to those in the Midwest and South," the release states. This means that in 2024, chief medical officers at children's hospitals are not only grappling with staffing shortages and specialty recruitment, but even geographic location has been a factor influencing care and patient outcomes, as the report shows. There are extra layers to consider for these executives due to these compounding factors, but even position scope for chief medical officers can vary hospital to hospital, which shapes how each executive guides staff through the headwinds differently. "All health systems are set up differently, as are the expectations of the CMO," Blake Bulloch, MD, chief medical officer at Phoenix Children's, told Becker's. "We have a CMO, surgeon-in-chief, physician-in-chief, and chief physician executive. We all have our own responsibilities and report up to the chief physician executive, but there is some overlap in all of our functions." The overlap requires constant coordination and communication among physician leadership, he said. The health system is adding two more community hospitals that are scheduled to open later this year, which is also requiring the C-suite physician leaders at Phoenix Children's to double-down on the coordination and communication even further. "It is my responsibility to communicate to the other physician leaders what we are working on, where we think there could be risks and options for proactive risk mitigation," Dr. Bulloch added. The challenges that are exclusive to children's hospitals are expected to get worse, unfortunately, and they might become even harder to tackle going forward, if things continue to play out this way, Aaron Carroll, MD, pediatrician and professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine wrote in a July opinion piece for The New York Times. "Whats been uniformly concerning for 20 years has been the waning interest in pediatrics subspecialties as the need has grown," Atul Grover, MD, executive director of the Association of American Medical College's Research and Action Institute shared with Dr. Carroll and The New York Times. While the future of pediatric care and children's hospitals is likely to hold more obstacles for chief medical officers and physician leaders to overcome, what is certain, Dr. Bulloch said, is change. "I am not sure people are aware of how dynamic this role can be," Dr. Bulloch said. "While some meetings, committee memberships and projects are ongoing, there are constantly new opportunities arising and challenges to overcome. Every day is different, and the job evolves over time." The University of Colorado School of Medicine is adopting a new approach to training doctors, The Denver Post reported. Rather than brief stints in each specialty exclusively the common practice in the U.S. its students concurrently train in multiple specialties. Most medical schools have students train under one specialty for a few weeks before rotating to another one. At the Aurora, Colo.-based school, an aspiring physician might be placed in pediatrics on Mondays, internal medicine on Tuesdays, and so on. The sustained immersion throughout a hospital or health system aims to eliminate the fragmentation in clinical experiences, according to the school's website. The model, called longitudinal integrated clerkship, requires students to select a panel of 15 patients to follow for a year from select areas, such as those nearing end of life or those receiving obstetric care. It is the first medical school in the nation to fully transition to this education model. The university launched the model in 2014 and has steadily expanded it since then, according to the Post. With the patient's permission, students receive notifications if the patient is hospitalized or visits an emergency department. By working across different departments simultaneously, students are exposed to the overlapping care continuum. For example, a former surgery patient might be a future obstetric patient, which can lead to increased empathy and patient-centeredness, according to Jennifer Adams, MD, the school's assistant dean of medical education. "In the old model, they saw people at their sickest," Abraham Nussbaum, MD, assistant dean of the school and chief education officer at Denver Health, told the news outlet. "In the new model, they get to see people get well." Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally, June 22, 2024, in Philadelphia. Trump is seeking to distance himself from a plan for a massive overhaul of the federal government drafted by some of his administration officials. Chris Szagola/Associated Press Chronicle readers who love Mexican food, Italian food, Vietnamese food and other Texas ethnic favorites may be surprised to learn that the Lone Star State also boasts superb Hungarian food the paprika-enlivened stuffed cabbage at Brigittas in Kilgore; the traditional langos at a Round Rock food trailer called Galambos Family Hungarian Food; the rich, comforting Hungarian goulash at Rudi Lechners Restaurant on S. Gessner, tender beef tips swimming in a piquant broth. Although relatively rare compared to other ethnic traditions, Hungarys contribution to the states international menu helps make Texas Texas. Trending these days, on the other hand, is a recipe for a Texas-laced political goulash that American voters, we hope, spurn with a vengeance. Its chef is a former Texan who relies on ingredients that would seem to be inspired by Hungarys quasi-dictator, Prime Minister Victor Orban. Its name on the right-wing menu is Project 2025. If served up, its likely to make this nation sick. The now-notorious policy agenda is a product of the Heritage Foundation, an influential conservative think tank founded in 1973. The organization is headed by Kevin Roberts, former CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, the hard-right political organization that exerts a powerful influence on Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Attorney Gen. Ken Paxton and other GOP elected officials across the state. A hefty portion of TPPFs funding comes from its vice-chairman, Tim Dunn, the West Texas oil and gas billionaire and ardent Christian nationalist whos the force behind Abbotts relentless school-voucher crusade. The authoritarian national agenda Roberts now shepherds at Heritage looks a lot like TPPFs policy goals as it lays out in disturbing detail what a second Trump administration might look like. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I know nothing about Project 2025, Trump said on Truth Social, his social media website. I have no idea who is behind it. Never mind that more than two dozen of the projects contributors were members of his administration. Of course, Trump may be telling the truth; policy details have never been his thing. Make no mistake, though; hard-right ideologues at the Heritage Foundation and more than a hundred conservative organizations that helped produce the buffet of policy options officially the 2025 Presidential Transition Project are ready to shape Trumps ill-considered inclinations and self-serving impulses into a dramatic makeover of the nation. As Roberts assured Steve Bannon, Trumps favorite foul-mouthed anarchist, We are in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be. Bannon, by the way, told ABC News in late June, shortly before reporting to federal prison to begin a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress, that Project 2025 would take apart the administrative state brick by brick. Included in the 920-page agenda weve read it, so you dont have to are the following post-revolution gems that would: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bring back the spoils system. (To the victor go the spoils, as the saying goes). In an unacknowledged nod to President Andrew Jackson, who replaced government employees who knew what they were doing with political flunkies, Project 2025 calls for an executive branch larded with Trump loyalists. Jacksons effort was such a disaster that the nation has relied since 1883 on various permutations of the merit system, meaning that most government employees are insulated from partisan pressure. The Project folks see no problem with the spoils system, at least as long as Trump is in office: It is necessary to ensure that departments and agencies have robust cadres of political staff. Authorize Trump to fire as many as 50,000 civil servants and replace them with loyalists. He tried something similar in 2020 with an executive order labeled Schedule F, but the Biden administration killed it before it could be implemented. Allow Trump's executive branch direct control of the Justice Department and all its enforcement arms and other agencies with enforcement powers. Trump would thus have the power to use the FBI, the IRS and other federal agencies to investigate his opponents and wreak retribution," as he has threatened. Disband the Department of Education, which enforces civil rights laws in schools, including Title IX ensuring gender equity. It would divert public funding to religious education by expanding school choice through no-strings-attached block grants to the states. Establish the "Department of Life," in lieu of the Department of Health and Human Services, and call for the president to "lead the nation in restoring a culture of life in America again. While Project 2025 doesn't explicitly call for an abortion ban, it would require every state to report exactly how many abortions take place within its borders, at what gestational age of the child, for what reason, the mothers state of residence and by what method. Anyone mailing abortion pills would be prosecuted. (Abortion pills pose the single greatest threat to unborn children in a post-Roe world.) The Project also would force the Food and Drug Administration to remove the abortion pill mifepristone from the market. Detain and deport massive numbers of men, women and children in sprawling border camps made of temporary tents. Deploy active-duty military personnel and National Guardsmen to assist in arrest operations along the border something that has not yet been done. Divert resources form programs that the authors consider unlawful such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program and mass parole for refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan and Venezuela. Completing Trumps beloved border wall would again be a priority. Illegal immigration should be ended, not mitigated; the border sealed, not reprioritized, the Project insists. It proposes the indefinite curtailment of refugee admissions "until the crisis can be contained." The Department of Homeland Security would be dismantled and replaced with a new border patrol and immigration agency cobbled together from Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, as well as portions of the Justice Department and Health and Human Services. Employing more than 100,000 federal employees, the Cabinet-level body would be the third-largest department measured by manpower. Reject any concern that climate change is a threat and de-prioritize the Environmental Protection Agency's efforts accordingly. Project 2025 calls for a drastic increase in fossil fuel production, including Arctic drilling. It also calls for eliminating the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the agency that forecasts weather and tracks climate change, describing NOAA as one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry. Relying on the unitary executive theory of governance meaning an all-powerful chief executive Project 2025 authors seem to presume that Trump or one of his MAGA acolytes will reign in perpetuity. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Those who want to see how the theory works in practice might look to Hungary under its autocratic prime minister. A Vladimir Putin comrade who has visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago twice this year, Orban endorsed Trumps presidential bid in March. The former president has called Orban a great man and promised to work closely with him. Trumps running mate, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, has said that Orban has made some "smart decisions" that America could learn from, including a regulatory crackdown on what universities teach. Presiding since 2010 over what political scientists call an electoral autocracy, Orban has taken control of the courts, hobbled mass media, asserted absolute control over the countrys education system and restructured elections so that its almost impossible for the opposition to win. Orban proudly calls his government an illiberal Christian democracy. In a 2022 interview, Heritage CEO Roberts said that modern Hungary is not just a model for conservative statecraft, but the model." After meeting with Orban in March, Roberts announced that he was especially proud of our relationship with Prime Minister Orban, whose leadership in Hungary on immigration, family policy and the importance of the nation-state is a model for conservative governance. Breathlessly awaiting a Trump restoration, Roberts, Trump, Vance and others in their hard-right coterie obviously have an appetite for an American version of Orbans political stew. Preliminary reviews suggest that most Americans want no part of it. Even stalwart Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has grown worried about his party's praise of a man who courts America's enemies, saying in May that Hungary "isn't where America should be taking our foreign policy cues." He said: "Hungary stands at the crossroads of three powers bent on undermining our security and prosperity. And the Orban government is modeling what not to do in the face of these challenges." Advertisement Article continues below this ad In addition to the delectable Hungarian goulash at eateries like Rudi Lechners, were guessing most Americans, too, prefer a hearty helping of old-fashioned democracy. Project 2025 needs to be dumped into historys waste bin before it ever gets to the table. Health systems continue to look to Big Tech to help with their digital transformations and artificial intelligence projects. Here are seven partnerships Becker's reported on in the past month. 1. Fort Wayne, Ind.-based Parkview Health has participated in an ambient notes pilot in conjunction with Microsoft's Nuance DAX Copilot, Becker's reported July 25. 2. Microsoft, Somerville, Mass.-based Mass General Brigham, and Madison, Wis.-based University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health said July 24 they are working together to advance AI in medical imaging. 3. Peoria, Ill.-based OSF HealthCare said July 18 it is embedding generative AI from Microsoft Copilot into the tools that staff use every day. 4. Clearwater, Fla.-based BayCare Health System's St. Joseph Hospital in Tampa, Fla., is the second system to use Amazon's Just Walk Out technology in its cafe, the Tampa Bay Times reported July 11. 5. Nurses play a crucial role in shaping the use of AI-powered patient communications tools from Microsoft and Epic at Madison, Wis.-based UW Health, Chero Goswami, chief information and digital officer at UW Health, told Becker's for a June 26 story. 6. Amazon Web Services said June 26 it pledged to commit $1 million each to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Washington, D.C.-based Children's National Hospital, and Columbus, Ohio-based Nationwide Children's Hospital to advance pediatric and children's healthcare. Children's National is using the funding to hire 30 additional positions focused on AI, Washington Business Journal reported July 11. 7. Indianapolis-based Community Health Network said June 25 it is investing in Microsoft's Nuance Communications as well as a deployment of Microsoft Azure cloud services. Project 2025 is a package of sweeping federal policy proposals from the Heritage Foundation, intended for the next Republican presidential administration. The conservative Washington, D.C.-based think tank proposed the 922-page initiative in 2022. On its website, Project 2025 notes that it "does not speak for any candidate or campaign, in any capacity." Former President Donald Trump publicly disavowed the package in July. The Trump campaign has said that its 16-page policy plan, Agenda47, along with the 2024 Republican Party platform, will be the focus if he wins reelection in November. Agenda 47's healthcare policy proposals are sparse and are included in the chapter aimed at addressing affordability broadly. "Healthcare and prescription drug costs are out of control," the proposal says. "Republicans will increase transparency, promote choice and competition, and expand access to new affordable healthcare and prescription drug options. We will protect Medicare, and ensure seniors receive the care they need without being burdened by excessive costs." In contrast, Project 2025 offers more detailed policy proposals across specific topics and federal agencies, including major reforms at HHS, CMS, the CDC and NIH. According to CNN, 140 former Trump administration officials have contributed to Project 2025, and Mr. Trumps vice presidential candidate, Sen. JD Vance, wrote the introduction of an upcoming book from the Heritage Foundation's president, Kevin Roberts. Eight key healthcare proposals in Project 2025: 1. HHS reform. The department should be reformed to promote work, traditional marriage and nuclear families, not abortion as a healthcare service and LGBTQ equity efforts. Terms such as "sexual orientation, "gender identity" and "reproductive health" should be removed from all federal rules and regulations. States would be the ultimate regulators of the medical profession. HHS would also not be able to declare indefinite public health emergencies. 2. Medicare. Medicare Advantage would become the default enrollment option for older adults, and beneficiaries would be given "direct control" of spending. A "competitive bidding model" would be introduced and the current risk adjustment model would be reconfigured. Site-neutral payment policies would be promoted, with Medicare payments being the same across all healthcare settings. Medicare would be banned from negotiating drug prices, and 340B subsidies restructured "toward beneficiaries rather than hospitals." 3. Medicaid. Federal Medicaid funding would be reduced and lifetime caps on benefits would be introduced "to disincentivize permanent dependence." States could impose work requirements to receive benefits and providers would be able to "make payment reforms" without state or federal approval where possible. Other proposals include block grants, stricter eligibility determinations, the establishment of a voucher system to purchase private insurance with Medicaid funding, and more oversight and reform of managed care organizations. Medicaid funds would be banned from going to Planned Parenthood, and elective abortion providers would not be covered through state Medicaid programs. 4. Abortion. Abortion would not be considered a healthcare service and no federal funding should be allocated toward facilities that provide those services, including for active military personnel. Reporting and surveillance of those seeking or obtaining abortion services would become more strict in every state. Healthcare workers, particularly those in hospitals, would be required to report abortion pill complications. Medical schools that offer abortion-related training should do so under an opt-in basis. The FDA's approval of abortion pills such as mifepristone would be revoked, and mailing abortion medications or obtaining them virtually would be banned. The ACA insurance mandate to cover the "week-after" contraceptive pill Ella would also be rescinded. Any federally-funded research using human embryonic stem cells should not occur, and "abortion and embryo destructive related research, cell lines, and other testing methods become both fully obsolete." "Miscarriage management or standard ectopic pregnancy treatments should never be conflated with abortion," the proposal says. 5. Affordable Care Act/Insurance. The ACA should be reformed to better promote direct primary care policies, and CMS should promote more shared savings and reference pricing models. Health plan choices such as association plans, short-term plans, and ICHRAs should all be expanded, and the subsidized ACA exchange market should be separated from the non-subsidized insurance market. The independent dispute resolution process established under the No Surprises Act should be dissolved. Restrictions on physician-owned hospitals would be removed, and hospital price transparency regulations should be strengthened. 6. Gender-affirming care. A Biden administration policy asserting that transgender minors have a right to gender-affirming care should be reconsidered. CMS would not issue any national coverage determinations regarding gender reassignment surgery for Medicare beneficiaries. Discrimination laws on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and transgender status would be rescinded. Transgender people would be banned from serving in the military, and no federal funding would be allocated for gender-affirming services for military personnel. 7. CDC reform. The agency should be split into two entities: an epidemiological agency responsible for publishing data, and an agency responsible for public health but with a "severely confined ability to make policy recommendations." 8. Corporate consolidation. The next administration should focus on preventing "the regulatory capture of our public health agencies by pharmaceutical companies, insurers, hospital conglomerates" The FTC should work more closely with state attorneys general on antitrust enforcement policy, including proposed hospital mergers. In the second quarter of 2024, there were 300 medications in shortage across the U.S. Here are eight new shortages to know about, according to drug supply databases from the FDA and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists: Basiliximab injection: There is not enough supply for usual ordering because of manufacturing delays. Novartis has two allocated presentations of the drug, which prevents kidney transplant rejection. Bisoprolol fumarate; hydrochlorothiazide tablet: Teva Pharmaceuticals USA discontinued three presentations of the hypertension drug July 26. Cyanocobalamin spray: On July 12, Endo Pharmaceuticals discontinued one presentation of the vitamin B12 supplement. Disulfiram tablet: There are four available presentations of the alcohol use disorder medication, and one presentation from Alvogen is unavailable. A resupply date was not provided. Esmolol injection: Six presentations of the medication, which is approved to treat abnormal heart beats, are in shortage among five manufacturers. Most companies did not share a release date, but Viatris expects more supply in August. Eleven presentations are available. Estradiol cypionate injection: Pfizer, the sole supplier of the estrogen product, said its vials are on back order because of manufacturing delays. Supply is predicted to rebound in October. Indocyanine green: The cyanine dye is used for medical diagnostics. There is insufficient supply for usual ordering as Hub Pharmaceuticals reports a manufacturing delay. The product is on allocation, and no release date was shared. Orphenadrine citrate injection: There are no available presentations of the muscle relaxer. Hikma Pharmaceuticals and Sagent Pharmaceuticals expect the shortage to end between late July and early August. Loma Linda (Calif.) University Health is collaborating with data analytics firm Loopback Analytics to level up the health system's specialty pharmacy services. Antony Gobin, PharmD, Loma Linda University Health's senior vice president of pharmacy services, told Becker's the Loopback partnership will help identify internal capture opportunities for the pharmacy. "It's an attempt for us to be able to take care of and treat Loma Linda patients," Dr. Gobin said. "Patients will be seen by our physicians, within one of our clinics, and sometimes their specialty pharmacy is not ours. Keeping everything in house, within our system, is better for patient care. This is going to help us identify some of those opportunities." Dr. Gobin highlighted how some health systems have found that in-house specialty pharmacies can provide better patient care because they have access to patient profiles, lab results and visit history. Beyond improving patient care, Loopback's technology also finds opportunities for more payer access by identifying patient insurance with which the pharmacy is not yet contracted, Dr. Gobin said. The Loopback partnership, announced in a July 24 news release from the company, also allows the Loma Linda pharmacy to streamline costs. "They allowed us to consolidate," he said. "We would often have two different vendors serving one purpose. Now, we can get it all at one place." Epidemiologists and virologists are moving away from the term "booster" to describe COVID-19 vaccines, according to a July 26 ABC News report. Experts are calling COVID-19 shots "updated vaccines" to embed the idea of at least two annual jabs: one for influenza, another for COVID-19. In comparison, boosters were created to strengthen resistance during infection spikes rather than an annual campaign. It will be difficult to stamp out the use of "booster" because the term has become "pervasive," CDC vaccine advisory committee member Keipp Talbot, MD, told CBS News in September. Four things to know about the 2024 formulation: 1. The upcoming shots target the KP.2 strain, which is part of the JN.1 lineage. As of July 20, KP.2 and its offshoot KP.2.3 account for 20.4% of COVID-19 cases, according to CDC data. 2. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older receive the vaccine. 3. Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Novavax are developing updated formulas. Supply is expected to be available in August or September. 4. Private insurance plans, Medicare and Medicaid cover the updated vaccines. Previously, the CDC's Bridge Access Program offered free COVID-19 shots for adults who did not have an insurance plan that covered the vaccine, but the program ends in August. "This year we won't have the luxury of having the Bridge Program be a safety gap," Peter Chin-Hong, MD, an infectious disease physician at UCSF Health in San Francisco, told ABC News. "Those who have no insurance, which comprises millions of Americans, will have to be covered by different states' safety net programs." The Vaccines for Children Program will continue, according to the report. More than 120 behavioral health staff at NYC Health + Hospitals will receive up to $75,000 in student debt relief thanks to a $5 million donation the New York City-based system received from Black Family Philanthropies. The gift is one of the largest the health system has ever received and aims to support the recruitment and retention of behavioral health staff, according to a July 29 news release. The student loan repayment program will be supported by $4 million of the total donation. Through the program, behavioral health staff, including nurses, social workers and psychiatrists, will be eligible for debt relief in exchange for a three-year work commitment. The remaining $1 million will be used to support retention through career advancement and workplace safety initiatives. NYC Health + Hospitals behavioral health loan repayment program launched in 2022 after an inaugural $1 million donation from Three Cairns Group. The latest gift expands the program for another two years and to more disciplines within the specialty. The NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest public health system in the country, and provides around 60% of all behavioral health services for pediatric and adult patients in New York City. A new Nova Ortho and Spine location in Orlando will open Aug. 5, according to a July 29 news release from Cardiff Lexington. This will be the 12th location for Nova Ortho and Spine, and it will be the 11th in Florida, the news release said. The new Orlando location is 1,600 square feet. "With over 300,000 residents, Orlando is the fourth largest city in the state of Florida by population," Cardiff Lexington CEO Alex Cunningham said in the release. "We have built a strong presence across smaller key markets, and we're pleased to be taking this next step as we expand into larger metropolitan areas that significantly enhance our visibility and patient access." Cardiff Lexington is a holding company that helps grow middle market healthcare companies. Nova Ortho and Spine is a key revenue driver for Cardiff Lexington and provides care for traumatic injury patients. Davenport, Iowa-based Orthopaedic Specialists is adding two orthopedic surgeons in the coming months. Craig Moe, MD, and Brian McGowan, MD, both have expertise in joint replacement, according to a July 29 news release shared with Becker's. Dr. Moe will join the practice Aug. 1, and Dr. McGowan will start Sept. 3. Dr. Moe earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, and he completed his residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. McGowan earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, and he completed his residency at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. From networking opportunities to new innovation seminars, professional spine and orthopedic societies have much to offer their members, but joining can come at a steep cost. With a wide range of societies to choose from, from the Congress of Neurological Surgeons to the North American Spine Society or the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, membership can become costly. Lali Sekhon, MD, PhD, a spine surgeon at Reno (Nev.) Orthopedic Center, told Becker's that he has spent over $150,000 on the approximately 10 societies he was a member of. Now, as the opportunities provided by these societies are becoming available online and at a lower cost, Dr. Sekhon is dialing back his memberships. Dr. Sekhon spoke with Becker's about the pros and cons of professional society membership in 2024, and what societies need to do to get and retain younger surgeons. Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length. Q: What are the pros you have found to being a member of various professional societies throughout the course of your career? Cons? Dr. Lali Sekhon: Society membership was valuable when I finished my fellowships in 2000. Over the past 25 years, Ive probably paid more than $150,000 in dues from my own pocket and several fold for meeting attendances. Some societies are obligatory and others are optional. The goals have always been camaraderie, sharing of knowledge, updates, seeing new technologies, networking and collegiality. A lot has changed in those 25 years, and most of it has been digital. During COVID-19, many physicians realized the advantages of not attending meetings, which essentially improved work/life balance, saved money and still allowed people to obtain a lot of these goals. In 2024, for private practice physicians the obvious cons are membership and annual meeting costs. There are also opportunity costs of what else you could do with your time and money. Added to this the plethora of meetings, mostly centered around spring and fall, with attendance to more than one or two just not practical. The goals of networking and seeing new technologies can be done now by anyone who has access to a browser. Networking has evolved. Camaraderie is probably more a local and online phenomenon, but if surgeons attend just one larger meeting, it can be attained. Times have changed, and with it have the demands and desires of potential members. Ive pared my society memberships from about 10 down to about four. I did not renew twp per year for the last three years and frankly, its liberating. I will attend the bigger meetings, but a lot of my goals aside from networking can be attained virtually. Q: What do professional medical/spine societies need to do to encourage the next generation of surgeons to want to become active members? LS: 1. Reduce membership dues. 2. Consolidate meetings ideally one big West Coast and one big East Coast [meeting] per year. 3. Provide more value. If you attend a meeting apart from the $700-$1,100 registration, one has to then pay for every pre-meeting course, every breakfast and lunch seminar. 4. [Pay attention to] location West Coast [members] hate [attending] East Coast meetings and vice-versa. 5. [Schedule] weekend meetings less time out of our practice. The big question is how many societies do we really need? Important functions like advocacy and representation still need to be served, but in spine do we really need a dozen societies for 5,000 U.S. spine surgeons? Ive seen younger partners forgo most memberships. Just like the Elk Clubs: "Draw members or face extinction." While membership is on the decline for several professional spine and orthopedic societies, major association players, including the North American Spine Society, are discovering ways to evolve to meet the needs of a modern physician workforce. "Like many medical associations, NASS has experienced a slight decline in membership as well as attendance at in-person events as a result of healthcare professionals' change in priorities during this post-pandemic period. With the increased workloads of their practices, spine professionals have less time to devote to association-related activities. To serve their needs, NASS has developed more online learning and collaborative opportunities for them to share spine education, research and information about innovative technologies," Zoher Ghogawala, MD, president of NASS, told Becker's. "NASS has also enhanced its annual meeting education program by focusing on content that attracts more in-person meeting participation by providing more opportunities for collaboration, discussion and debate on research, techniques and technologies. An additional new meeting will be launched in 2025 focusing solely on innovation in spine, bringing together spine professionals and industry to collaborate on the future of spine care. Additionally, NASS has placed a greater emphasis on developing and implementing programs and resources for residents, fellows and early-career spine professionals to be a critical part of their life-long learning process. NASS continues to evolve to meet the professional needs and demands of its members as well as to maintain its position as the premier and "go-to" association for spine professionals." Hughes Insurance is to be purchased by UK insurance company Markerstudy Group Hughes Insurance based in Co Down is to be bought over by UK insurance company Markerstudy Group, its been announced. Markerstudy say the purchase, which is still subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions, is proof of their commitment to Northern Ireland. The company manages a number of different insurance businesses including Carole Nash, Budget, Marmalade Insurance and Purely Pets. The groups companies work across a range of different sectors of insurance, including motor, pet and business insurance. Cumulatively, Markerstudy group brands manage over 8 million customers. Over 7,000 people are employed by the company. Hughes Insurance was founded in 1977 and is one of NIs largest insurance firms. It has 85,000 customers and works in the motor, home, van, travel and commercial insurance sectors. The company was headquartered in Newtownards, before that building was sold after being put up for sale in December 2023. It has a registered office address at 20 Fenchurch Street, London. Hughes Insurances most recent accounts, for the year ending December 31 2022, show a pre-tax profit of 2.5m and a turnover of 13.7m. The same accounts showed the company had 246 employees on average per month. Bernie McHugh Sonner, acting CEO of Hughes Insurance, said: Joining the Markerstudy Group marks a new and exciting chapter for Hughes Insurance and our valued customers. "This acquisition will not only strengthen our capabilities but also enhance our ability to provide innovative, competitive and comprehensive insurance solutions. "I look forward to the future with confidence and enthusiasm, knowing that this collaboration will drive growth and innovation for Hughes Insurance. Kevin Spencer, chief executive of Markerstudy Group, said: Markerstudy and Hughes Insurance have traded together for many years and worked closely on numerous initiatives. "Were committed to the Northern Ireland market and are looking forward to welcoming their team and supporting their aspirations to deliver growth and innovation to enhance their customer offering. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Mandel Ngan/AFP/TNS Passing the torch Regarding Biden: Quitting race put democracy first. (July 25): I used to dance. I used to command the center of the dance floor. It was my turn, and I took it. A woman I know broke her ankle recently trying to walk on tiptoes. Its one of the signs that the spotlight has shifted. Im not waiting for a bone to fracture, but I think fondly of the dance. I think about big hair, red lips and quick answers. Growing older wasnt a thought; I was busy slaying dragons, racking up more wins than losses. The scorecard has since changed. Now, a grandson sighs before he tells me one more time how my phone works. Or when the car behind me honks again because Im still driving the speed limit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I was always the youngest and in a hurry. Every experience was new, and every mountain looked possible. Now Im older, and every experience holds a different perspective. I witness Joe Biden grow older. He still has the spotlight. Hes earned it. Hes worked 50 years in public service, building to this place. He still has a dream and an agenda. He has succeeded; his record proves that. He lives in a time where politics are treated more like a sport, and words can be so cruel. Yet he still dances. Then he willingly shifts the spotlight, publicly. Not for his gain, but for what he believes is the good of others. I think about grace in the passage of time. Biden says: I hope you have some idea how grateful I am to all of you. I look at my toys from the past. Ive held onto them for at least two decades past their use. My letting go has been private no one told me to get off the dance floor, they just danced circles around me. I look in the mirror, an old woman putting on red lipstick and wiping it all away before leaving the house. I watch National Geographic about an aging lion who is torn apart by two younger males. I wince. Advertisement Article continues below this ad My president shines with humility and gratitude, and I am humbled too. This is the dance. In his grace, he leaves behind hope for a younger generation. I have hope too, but I also hope the younger dancers take a moment to turn back. Bidens passing of the torch is exquisite. Melissa P. England, Canyon Lake Questions for Kamala Regarding Harris: We are not going back (July 26): In todays Houston Chronicle, the front section had seven pages of news and commentary, and four of those pages had a picture of Vice President Kamala Harris. Is this unbiased journalism? When will the press ask the following questions that demand answers from now-presidential candidate Harris? When did you first become aware of Joe Bidens mental health issues? At what date did his decline become evident to you? Can you discuss your efforts to secure the border by massively reducing illegal immigration, including protecting Americans from hardened criminals? Will you admit to the American people that democracy has been thwarted by the lack of an open primary to replace Biden? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Take note, Houston Chronicle: Even CNN has become a better arbiter of balanced news. For the sake of your readers and subscribers, stop the syrupy Harris lovefest. Edward Vesely, Houston Plugging the immigration leaks Regarding At RNC, Donald Trump vows 'largest deportation operation' in U.S. history. What would that mean? (July 19): This article reminded me of the sinking ship model. Consider the U.S. as the sinking ship due to a huge leak. The leak, in this case, is from undocumented immigrants entering and overloading the ship. The captain of the ship has two alternatives. One is to start selectively throwing overboard folks in the ship. The other alternative is to muster the folks in the ship to work together and stop the leak. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Methinks the most effective approach is to fix the leak meaning stop the immigrant influx by working together to do it effectively. A massive deportation policy, as noted, would require being selective, but the leak would continue. Not an effective approach. Husband and wife team to play two Christmas concerts in city Northern Irish fans of Christian music sensations the Gettys cant get enough so they are ready to give you more. They have chosen the Belfast Telegraph to exclusively announce they will play a second night at the SSE Arena after their homecoming show sold out. Husband and wife duo Keith and Kristyn Getty are returning home for special Christmas concerts following their huge success in the States, where they are both based. The couple are from Northern Ireland, where they met before establishing themselves as leading lights in Nashville writing hymns and Christian music. In America they have held festive shows for a decade but this year are returning to their roots by ending their tour with a homecoming in Belfast. After their Friday, December 20 Home for Christmas gig sold out in the space of a month, tickets for a second show, scheduled for the night before, go on sale today. Read more Hymn stars Keith and Kristyn Getty to play in Belfast for first time with Christmas show Kristyn said: Generally we come home in the summer. Weve got four young children so we find the summertime is just the best because they are off school and here a lot of people are off and we can catch up with more friends and family a bit better. But this year is very special because were coming home for Christmas and so thats wonderful for the music but its also wonderful as a family to actually be home. We can do the gigs and then have Christmas with our family so its a double homecoming for Christmas, its a music and a personal one. So well do about 15 shows around the States in December and the final one there is at Carnegie Hall [in New York] which is our 10th anniversary there and then well fly back home and our last two will be here. We write hymns and we travel around with them and we always get excited to get large groups of people singing and Christmas is one of the best times for that with, of course, carols. For us as songwriters, carols are some of the best hymns that have ever been written and people love to sing them year after year, so its just great to be able to get some good musicians together and the best arrangements we can, fill the room up and get everyone singing these songs that people love. Kristyn and Keith Getty The shows from the Nashville-based couple, who have a holiday home in Bushmills, will be a treat for their fans here as traditionally they have held their Christmas shows in the States before. Keith said: The Christmas show started back in 2010 we did an event with Billy Graham, the huge American evangelist, they asked us to do an event with him. So it started off at that with four of our Christmas songs and they wanted a bunch of Christmas carols for a singalong tied in an Irish bow. It just felt good and people were excited about it and said lets do it so it started and by 2014 it was the only what youd call Christian event in Carnegie Halls Christmas season and then on 2015 it started on PBS as a network television special. And again, we write hymns, so our music is typically sung by churches but carols are the only hymns that are really sung outside of the church. So it widened our music to a newer and fresher audience, so it was really nice. For us, our thing was always about reinventing hymns. Old churches sing old hymns, but new churches sing modern pop rock songs and whatever we wanted to reinvent the hymn thing, something a bit deeper. With the Christmas show, weve created an event which in the first half is like a Christmas party. Its dynamic music, special guests, theres instrumental music, theres dance, theres parts where the audience join in and its pretty funny. Its a fun celebration of Christmas and we do funny things with carols. And then in the second half is like a 60-minute production of the nine lessons of carols and it tells the story. You get to sing all your favourite carols from Silent Night to Hark The Herald Angels Sing and the whole audience go on this singing journey and then it finishes with a celebration and a bit of a hoedown at the end. Kristyn is originally from Newtownabbey, while Keith is Lisburn-born, and the Grammy-nominated artists known for modern hymns and carols such as In Christ Alone and Christ Our Hope in Life and Death told the Belfast Telegraph of their excitement at coming back. Kristyn said: It brings this multi-generational approach to the experience, so little kids can enjoy these songs and grow up with them, songs mums and dads remember as kids and theyre singing again and have sung them their whole lives. Some of the greatest traditional hymns are built round simple folk melodies so they have this warmth to them, theyre winsome, theres an accessibility and people can sing them. And I think thats what excited us as young hymn writers growing up in Northern Ireland, looking at these folk music traditions and how that might help the church sing and encourage the churchs voice and that really inspired us. We obviously both grew up here and when I met Keith I was 18 and he was 24 and the first day we met we said, How about writing some songs? And I wasnt a songwriter at all but he encouraged me to get started in that and we just hit it off and started writing lots of songs, demo-ing them in the little studio in Lisburn and just hanging out. Those dreams to continue to write songs became a dream to be together and be married and then have these four beautiful daughters that we have. We did a couple of tours in the US and the two of us always loved America and so it was a great joy for us to go over and we thought, Oh, well live here a couple of years its been 18 years now! But weve always come home and we love that. The new date for Keith and Kristyn Getty Home for Christmas is Thursday, December 19 at the SSE Arena Belfast. Tickets go on sale today at 10am at Ticketmaster Crash on A2 UPDATE: The below incident has now been cleared, although knock-on delays remain back to Big Barn leaving Bangor. A crash is causing delays in north Down heading towards Belfast. The collision occurred on the A2 Belfast Road around Ballymenoch Park in Holywood, causing knock on delays back to Seahill. The road is down to one lane as police attend the incident. Orangemen were again prevented from marching down the Garvaghy Road yesterday after the PSNI upheld a decision by the Parades Commission to block the walk during the All-Ireland final. Portadown District LOL No 1 had proposed starting the parade at 3pm as Armagh took on Galway in the showpiece GAA game. It had argued the the majority of the community who live there will either be away to Croke Park, or watching elsewhere. But in turning down the application, the Parades Commission said the proposed route would have an adverse effect on community relations and a potential for public disorder. Around a dozen members of the lodge staged their regular 1pm march and held a token protest at police lines. The PSNI said the weekly Sunday parade passed with no issue to report. The Orange Order has unsuccessfully applied for more than a quarter of a century to complete its 1998 walk along the contentious route. Earlier this week Portadown LOL No 1 said: We believe that this is an opportunity where the 1998 parade can be completed without bringing major disruption to the area and community. A fire was lit in an industrial bin in west Belfast last night. A police car has been damaged after disorder in the Lower Falls on Sunday night. Masonry and other items were thrown at police and fire service personnel, who came to extinguish a fire in an industrial bin. Police went to the scene when a large crowd gathered at around 10pm. 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 The crowd dispersed by around 11pm and while there were no reports of any injuries, a police car was damaged as a result of the incident. Enquiries are ongoing and officers for anyone with any information to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 1725 28/07/24. One in seven MLAs employed a family member at taxpayers expense in the last year with the former head of a Westminster standards watchdog proposing a ban on the practice. Garda killer Aaron Brady and Dean Byrne, who together conspired to pervert the course of justice during Brady's capital murder trial, have been sentenced by Dublins Special Criminal Court to a combined total of five years in prison. As Brady is already serving a life sentence for murdering Det Gda Adrian Donohoe, the three-year sentence he received today will make no difference to the time he serves. Brady accepted that he was responsible for recording footage of an interview between gardai and Ronan Flynn, a witness who told gardai he had heard Brady admit to shooting Det Gda Donohoe three times. The video was later posted on social media accusing Mr Flynn of "touting" and calling him a "rat". Mr Flynn did not give evidence at Brady's trial and Mr Justice Michael White, who oversaw the murder trial, described the release of the footage as "the most outrageous contempt of court" and a clear attempt to intimidate Flynn and other witnesses. Brady's co-conspirator, Dean Byrne, was due to be released later this year having spent the last 10 years in prison for multiple offences, including an aggravated burglary. Following Byrne's conviction last month for conspiring to persuade a witness in Brady's trial not to give evidence, Mr Justice Paul Burns at the three-judge court imposed a two-year sentence on Byrne that will begin when his previous sentences expire. Byrne, now aged 31, has been in prison since he was 21. Dean Byrne. Mr Justice Burns said that the offences committed by Brady and Byrne go to the heart of the administration of justice. In this case, it involved interference in the "extremely grave offence" of capital murder. Any attempt by individuals to place themselves above the law risks "fundamentally undermining the criminal justice system and cannot be tolerated in a democratic society," he said. However, the judge noted that the attempts to dissuade witnesses did not involve violence, threats or inducements. Therefore, he said the sentence imposed must reflect society's intolerance of unlawful interference in the administration of justice, but must also bear in mind the means used. The court arrived at headline sentences of five years for Brady and four years for Byrne. Having considered mitigating factors and the fact that both are already serving lengthy sentences, he reduced those to three and two years. 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. 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. Mr Flynn, who did not give evidence at Brady's trial, spoke to gardai in October 2017 while he was living in New York. He told gardai that while he was sharing an apartment with Brady, he often heard the defendant admit to shooting Det Gda Donohoe. Mr Flynn said that when Brady was drunk he would listen to the Wolfe Tones and get "angry and frustrated with himself" and say things like: "Sure f**k it, I shot a guard". The video of parts of Mr Flynn's garda interview was uploaded to WhatsApp, Youtube and Facebook with text accusing Mr Flynn of "touting" and claiming he had charges against him in the US dropped in return for his statement. Brady also sent photographs of part of the statement of Daniel Cahill to Byrne, a violent criminal who was housed on the same wing of Mountjoy Prison as Brady. Byrne passed the statements on to at least two people in an attempt to get Mr Cahill's family members to persuade him not to give evidence. Mr Cahill did give evidence at Brady's trial, telling the jury that Brady admitted to shooting a garda on three occasions while Brady was living in New York having fled from Ireland in the aftermath of the murder. Mr Cahill's evidence helped to prove that Brady was not just a member of the robbery gang, but the gunman who shot and killed Det Gda Donohoe. Brady is serving a life sentence with a minimum time served of 40 years for that murder. He was also jailed for 14 years for the robbery of the credit union. The sentence imposed today will run consecutively with that sentence. Dean Byrne (31) from Cabra Park, Phibsborough, Dublin has 127 previous convictions. He was due to be released later this year from a 14-year sentence for aggravated burglary. While in prison he has been convicted of further offences, including aiding and abetting a violent disorder in Mountjoy and possession of mobile phones. He was found guilty by the non-jury Special Criminal Court in June of conspiring with Aaron Brady in Mountjoy Prison between April 8, 2020 and June 22, 2020 to persuade prosecution witness Daniel Cahill not to give evidence at Brady's murder trial, a course of conduct which had a tendency to and which was intended to pervert the course of justice. The Friends of St Fitticks Park are challenging plans by Aberdeen City Council to built and Energy Transition Zone in St Fitticks Park (Jane Barlow/PA) A lawyer representing campaigners against proposals to industrialise part of an Aberdeen park has told the Court of Session that Aberdeen City Council failed in its legal duty to perform an impact assessment on the plans. Friends of St Fitticks Park (FSFP) are challenging Aberdeen City Councils plans to turn the park into a site called an Energy Transition Zone (ETZ). ETZ Ltd, which is poised to fund the project, is a private sector-led and not-for-profit company spearheading the North East of Scotlands energy transition ambition, receiving governmental support. Solicitor advocate Mike Dailly, representing FSFP, told the Court of Session in Edinburgh that Aberdeen City Council had failed to carry out an equality impact assessment (EIA) at any point in relation to the plans. The park is set around the ruined St Fitticks Church in the Torry area of Aberdeen (Alamy/PA) This amounted, he told the court, to a failure by the council to discharge its responsibilities as a listed authority under the Equalities Act, and suggested that if the court accepted this it would render the plans unlawful. If I can convince the court of that point, thats sufficient to make a submission that the decision itself was unlawful, he explained. Quoting from the Equalities Act, Mr Dailly explained that as a listed authority the council was obliged to carry out an impact assessment in relation to any proposed new or revised policy or practice. He argued that a meeting of the full council on September 11 2023, in which the proposals were discussed, met this condition and should have triggered an assessment, in that it reached a significant operational decision in relation to the park. He also described the detrimental impact the development of the park would have on local people with protected characteristics. This policy decision, he said, will do significant disadvantage for children, older persons, and those with disabilities who use the park, and it will have a profoundly adverse impact on their health and wellbeing. He added that GPs in Aberdeen had produced a policy position setting out their concerns particularly from a health perspective. Judge Lord Fairlie took issue with Mr Daillys interpretation of the Aberdeen City Council meeting of September 11 2023 as reaching a policy decision. He said that, in his view, it only amounted to the council tasking the chief officer with a fact-finding exercise to learn out more about the proposed development by interested parties including, but not limited to, ETZ Ltd and the Port of Aberdeen. He said it would not be possible for the council to carry out an impact assessment until more details about any proposals were known, asking Mr Dailly: How can it carry out an impact assessment until it knows what its carrying out an impact assessment on? Representing Aberdeen City Council, Niall McLean told the court that the meeting of September 11 was a continuation of an existing policy rather than a new or revised policy or practice, and as such did not require an EIA. He added that the challenge brought by FSFP was premature as the council had not ruled out other options at that point. Its clear from the context of the decision itself, and the decisions that supported it, that this decision is a step along the way, part of a wider decision-making process which may or may not result in developing the park, he said. Replying to Mr McLeans arguments, Mr Dailly reiterated that The submission I have made is that in the exercise of the respondents public function, there has never been a competent EIA in relation to the park. Which is why the petitioner has sought to make the submission that I have already outlined earlier. Mr Dailly earlier told the court that ETZ Ltd had a masterplan setting out its proposals and that it had an active planning application to industrialise St Fitticks Park which, he said, had been initiated way before the decision in September last year. He also said that, since the September meeting, ETZ had already carried out substantive work on the site, including drilling, boring holes and fencing off parts of the park for public safety. In his response, Mr McLean pointed out that authorisation for ETZ Ltd to carry out groundworks on the site had been granted on January 15 2024, with a view to informing the council about the viability of the project. Earlier, Mr Dailly also pointed to an apparent bias on the part of the council in relation to the proposal to develop the park, saying there was an interest or apparent interest in ETZ Ltd by Aberdeen City Council co-leader, Christian Allard. Mr Allard, he explained, was a council-appointed director of a company called One, which he said is linked to ETZ Ltd and has aligned business goals. However, Lord Fairlie pointed out that the council would have been aware of his role in One given it was the council itself that had appointed him to it, and given that Mr Allard had already declared his interest in the company at a previous council meeting. He explained: The apparent bias argument doesnt hold because everybody know of his involvement in the company. They put him there and he had declared it. The judge added that in any event the council vote on September 11 passed 32 votes to 12, and that if Mr Allard had declined to participate in it the outcome would have been the same. Mr Dailly subsequently agreed to withdraw this argument. The judgement has been reserved. Former foreign secretary Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton has sworn the oath of allegiance to the King at Westminster following the return of Parliament. Many peers had already made the pledge at the despatch box ahead of the recent Kings Speech. Lord Cameron had resigned from Rishi Sunaks frontbench after the Tories crashed to their worst election defeat at the start of the month. The Conservative peers deputy at the Foreign Office Andrew Mitchell MP has become the shadow foreign secretary. Announcing he was stepping back from the parliamentary frontline, the former prime minister said at the time it had been a huge honour to serve as foreign secretary and pledged to continue to support the party and help rebuild from the very disappointing election result. Lord Cameron was appointed to the Cabinet last year in a shock return for the former Conservative leader, who resigned after the Brexit vote in 2016. The Kings Speech is delivered in the House of Lords Chamber (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) As he was not an elected MP he could not appear in the House of Commons and so instead was subjected to a special monthly question time in the House of Lords. Earlier, two non-party political peers took their seats on the red benches. Dr Alexandra Freeman, a filmmaker and expert in the communication of science, and British engineer and academic professor Lionel Tarassenko, had been recommended by the independent House of Lords Appointments Commission. Both will sit on the independent crossbenches. Baroness Freeman of Steventon, who won a Bafta for Walking With Beasts Interactive and was series producer of Trust Me, Im a Doctor, also helped communicate the evidence around Covid-19 transmission and the benefits and risks of vaccination during the pandemic. Lord Tarassenko is internationally recognised for being amongst the first to apply machine learning to real-world problems. Most of his research has been concerned with the application of AI to safety-critical systems, working on jet engine health monitoring with Rolls-Royce and on patient monitoring and treatment in the NHS, to improve outcomes from intensive care to community settings. Both wore the traditional scarlet robes for the short introduction ceremony in the upper chamber where they swore allegiance to the monarch. Bianca Williams and Ricardo Dos Santos speaking to the media after the officers were sacked last year (Jonathan Brady/PA) Two police officers sacked for lying after saying that they could smell cannabis during a stop and search of British athlete Bianca Williams and her partner will have an appeal heard in October. Former Met Pcs Jonathan Clapham and Sam Franks were dismissed in October last year after a disciplinary panel found they had lied about smelling the drug when they pulled over Olympic sprinter Ricardo Dos Santos and his partner Williams on July 4 2020. The police followed the athletes as they drove back from training to their west London home with their baby son, then three months old, in the back seat of their Mercedes. Officers handcuffed the couple and they were searched on suspicion of having drugs and weapons but nothing was found. A still from police body-worn footage of the stop (Independent Office for Police Conduct/PA) The force came under heavy criticism after footage of the stop was posted on social media, showing a distressed Williams who was concerned about being separated from her baby. Misconduct panel chairwoman Chiew Yin Jones said Clapham and Franks conduct had breached standards of professional behaviour in respect of honesty and integrity and this amounted to gross misconduct. They were then sacked. After the hearing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward said: While the panel accepted the officers version of events in most matters, including that their decisions were not motivated by ethnicity, it found that PC Clapham and PC Franks lied about smelling drugs on stopping the vehicle. Honesty and integrity are at the core of policing and, as the panel has concluded, there can be no place in the Met for officers who do not uphold these values. In the wake of their dismissal, an online appeal raised more than 150,000 for the officers. The Police Appeals Tribunal, which hears appeals against findings of gross misconduct involving police officers, will hear their case on October 3 and 4. Robinson has been released on bail after he was detained and then arrested under terror laws (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) Right-wing activist Tommy Robinson was arrested for frustration of police counter-terrorism powers after he was stopped at a port in Kent. Kent Police did not identify the political campaigner, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, but confirmed that a 41-year-old had been arrested on Sunday. The force said: On Sunday July 28 2024, a 41-year-old man was detained by Kent Police officers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 at the Channel Tunnel in Folkestone. Protesters gathered outside Downing Street in London after Robinson was arrested (James Manning/PA) He was subsequently arrested for frustration of a schedule 7 examination. He has since been released on bail while inquiries are ongoing. Under schedule seven of the Terrorism Act, police are allowed to stop anyone passing through a UK port to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. The person who is detained can be held for up to six hours, is legally obliged to answer questions and must provide the password or Pin for electronic devices, or be held to have committed a criminal offence if they refuse. In an audio clip posted on Robinsons X account, formerly Twitter, he is heard telling his ex-wife that officers have demanded the PIN code for his phone. 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 Robinson says he objected to the request because there would be legally privileged information on his phone, relating to an ongoing High Court case, and interviews that he has carried out relating to a documentary that he is making. The High Court case relates to Jamal Hijazi, who was a schoolboy when he was assaulted at Almondbury Community School in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, in October 2018. Syrian refugee Mr Hijazi successfully sued Robinson in 2021 after he made false claims, including about Mr Hijazi attacking girls in his school. The court also ordered an injunction preventing Mr Robinson from repeating the allegations he made against the then-teenager. The 41-year-old, who appeared at a rally of his supporters in central London on Saturday, posted a one-hour 45-minute film on X about the case, having already been accused of breaching the court order. In June this year, the Attorney Generals Office (AGO) filed papers to begin potential contempt proceedings against Robinson over allegations he breached the court order from 2021. He is due to appear at the High Court in London for a directions hearing in that case on Monday. China, U.S. agree to maintain communication at all levels Xinhua) 09:28, July 29, 2024 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Vientiane, Laos, July 27, 2024. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua) VIENTIANE, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met here on Satuday to exchange views on bilateral relations, agreeing to maintain communication at all levels and further implement the important common understandings reached at the San Francisco meeting last November between the two heads of state. During his meeting with Blinken, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said that in the past three months, the diplomatic, financial, law enforcement and climate teams of the two sides as well as the two militaries have maintained communication, along with increased people-to-people exchanges. However, it must be pointed out that the U.S. side did not refrain from moving to contain and suppress China, but to went even further. China-U.S. relations are still faced with accumulating risks and challenges and remain at a critical juncture of deescalation and stabilization, demanding efforts to recalibrate the direction, manage risks, properly address differences, remove disturbances and advance cooperation, Wang said. He noted that China's policy towards the United States has been consistent, adhering to the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation. The U.S. side should earnestly implement President Joe Biden's commitments and return to a rational and pragmatic China policy, Wang said, while calling on the two sides to work together to promote a stable, healthy and sustainable bilateral relationship. Wang pointed out that the United States holds a wrong perception of China and always mirrors China with its own hegemonic logic. China does not seek hegemony or practice power politics, and as a major country, it has the best record on peace and security in the world, Wang said. The Chinese foreign minister expressed hope that the U.S. side can better understand China, which is a nation focused on pursuing happiness for its people and its rejuvenation, and committed to the path of peaceful development and building a community with a shared future for mankind. Taiwan is part of China and has not been and will never be a country, Wang noted. "Taiwan independence" runs counter to cross-Strait peace, he said, adding that every provocation made by the "Taiwan independence" forces will be met with countermeasures to reduce the space for "Taiwan independence", in favor of working toward the goal of complete unification. Wang elaborated on the ins and outs of the Ren'ai Jiao issue, noting that China has reached a provisional arrangement with the Philippines on managing the situation. The Philippine side should keep its word and stop shipping any more construction materials, Wang said while urging the United States not to move to fan the flames and stir up trouble, undermining the stability in the South China Sea. China's position on the Ukraine issue is fair and transparent, and it will continue to promote peace talks, said the Chinese minister, calling on the United States to stop abusing unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction. China rejects false accusations and will not succumb to pressure or blackmail. It will take resolute measures to protect its major interests and legitimate rights, Wang noted. During the meeting, Blinken said that the United States is strongly committed to stabilizing US-China relations, continues to follow the one-China policy. The United States looks forward to maintaining regular communication with China and continuing cooperation in areas including counternarcotics and artificial intelligence, said Blinken. The United States would like to manage differences between the two sides and avoid misunderstanding and miscalculation, he said. The two sides also exchanged views on the situation concerning Gaza and the Korean Peninsula, and the question of Myanmar, among other matters. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Vientiane, Laos, July 27, 2024. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) People pay their respect to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Mayor John Whitmire ushered in a week of memorial services for the late U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee on Monday morning, saying the congresswoman deserved the best honor possible in Houston. Elected officials and family members gathered for a short ceremony outside Houston City Hall and then proceeded inside to see Jackson Lees casket draped in an American flag in City Halls rotunda. They paused in front of the casket as a string quartet played Amazing Grace. Jackson Lee is only the second person to lie in state at City Hall. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I got to see firsthand the passion, the dedication, the commitment to the people that she represented across Houston, quite frankly, Whitmire said during the ceremony. She wasnt going to let a redistricting line or a boundary line interfere with her voice. Jackson Lees family her husband Elwyn, children Jason and Erica, and close friends Gerald Womack and Duni Hebron stood for about an hour, shaking hands with visitors as they streamed inside. A line of residents waiting to pay their respects snaked around City Halls corner on Walker Street. By about 12:45 p.m., nearly 900 people had come to view Jackson Lees casket and sign a guest book. The late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People line up to show their respect for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People line up to show their respect for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People take photos as they pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer President Joe Biden prays by the flag-draped coffin of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, with her widower, Elwyn Lee and children Erica Lee and Jason Lee, in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer President Joe Biden carries a bouquet of flowers to the flag-draped coffin of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer People line up around Houston City Hall while the FBI does a sweep in the rotunda where the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee lies in state on Monday, July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer A Houston Police Honor Guard officer stands by the flag-draped coffin of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as she lay in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer President Joe Biden places his hand on the flag-draped coffin of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as he pays his last respects in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer President Joe Biden talks to Elwyn Lee, Erica Lee and Jason Lee, widower and children of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as he payed his last respect in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Color board salute as they switch duty watching over the casket of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Ana Ferraro, left, and Alma Laro cry in front of the casket of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Lara ran for an elected position a few years ago and always considered Rep. Jackson Lee a dear friend. We lost her, we lost her voice representing us, said Ferraro, a long-time constituent of the late congresswoman. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Batina Tina Smith takes video as she pays respect to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer President Joe Biden, left, and Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Houston, pay their last respects to he late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall Monday, July 29, 2024, in Houston. Jackson Lee died on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Houston City Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum listens during a brief ceremony as the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Its really surreal to know that the congresswoman is not here, Castex-Tatum said. It feels very hollow in Houston right now. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Attendees sign a guest book after paying respect to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Wearing their Juneteenth t-shirts family members Margaret Kizzee, from left, Meryl Delgado, Mateo Delgado, Moriah Site and Micah Kizzee take a selfie in front of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer A woman takes a photo of the casket with the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Houston Mayor John Whitmire addresses attendees of a prayer service before the public viewing of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People dressed in Buffalo Soldiers pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer The late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Houston Mayor John Whitmire, standing at podium, speaks during a brief ceremony as the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Dr. David Persse, Chief Medical Officer for the City of Houston, pays his respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Members of Ft. Bend Sheriffs Dept. Color Guard trade off as the watch over the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Tina Knowles was in attendance with the Lee family before a short prayer ceremony for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Amanda Edwards, left, pays respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Greg Carter, a professor at the University of Houston, attaches a ribbon to his suit coat as he waits to pay his respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Carter is a filmmaker. It was always important to Sheila that we tell our own stories, he said. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Commander Ray Garza with the Harris County Sheriffs Honor Guard takes photos of a short prayer service before a public viewing of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Houston Mayor John Whitmire speaks during a brief ceremony as the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A member of the Houston Police Dept., watches the line as people pay their respect to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Ben Burns talks with a man named Motapa as they wait to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer People arrive to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Two Houston Police officers leave city hall before the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A man named Motapa waits to pay his respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Houston Mayor John Whitmire speaks during a brief ceremony as the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A woman listens during a brief ceremony as the public arrives to pay their respects to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Members of the Houston Police Color Guard enter city hall as the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A member of Harris County Sheriffs Color Guard watches a short prayer service for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee from the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Erica Lee, daughter of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is comforted by Houston City Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas in the City Hall rotunda on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Family members of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee including husband, Elwyn, son Jason and daughter Erica greet well-wishers while Jackson Lees casket lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Houston Mayor John Whitmire walks into Houston City Hall rotunda with Sheila Jackson Lees husband Elwyn, and daughter Erica as she lies in stateon Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People come to pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Pasadena Police Department Officers come to pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer People pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer People walk into Houston City Hall to pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Consulate-General of Japan in Houston, Zentaro Naganuma, pays his respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Qatar Consulate General of Houston T.H. Sheikha Tamador Al Thani, pays her respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Senior Pastor of Houston Praise and Worship Center Bishop Frank A Rush pays his respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees Alpha Kappa Omega sorority sisters, Dee Foley, 49, Christina Guice- Gantt, 46, Pamela Cormier, 50, Mami Williams, 47, Mary Daffin, 70, and Ketcia Simmons, 46, pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A woman enters the rotunda of Houston City Hall to pay her respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Benjamin Burns, 47, pays his respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Pastor Joel Olsteen enters the rotunda of Houston City Hall to pay his respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees Alpha Kappa Omega sorority sisters, Dee Foley, 49, Christina Guice- Gantt, 46, Pamela Cormier, 50, Mami Williams, 47, Mary Daffin, 70, and Ketcia Simmons, 46, pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A woman pays her respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee as she lies in state in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer An color guard member watches over the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Iryna Marchiano, 42, and her two daughters Solomia Marchiano, 8, Zoryana Marchiano, 7, pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Politician Kathy Cheng pays her respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee speaks to the Houston Chronicle's Editorial Board in January. Jackson Lee died July 19 at the age of 74. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer April L. Jones said she volunteered for one of Jackson Lees first City Council campaigns, knocking on doors and holding signs. She said she would have felt remiss if she did not come pay her respects. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She was a warrior for Houston, for civil rights, Jones said. Shes done so much. Angie Hall said she knew the congresswoman for her trademark drive, always showing up at community events and taking an interest in neighborhood issues, even if they did not have a direct tie to her congressional role. After hurricanes or storms, Jackson Lee would not just organize water distributions, Hall said. She would be there to hand it to you herself. She was just hands-on for the community, and not just her district, said Hall, who went to City Hall with her sister, Pat Renfro. I think she was just humane. People wait to pay their respects as the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee lies in state Monday, July 29, 2024, at Houston City Hall in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Current and former elected officials from the city, county and state governments were among those in attendance, as was Tina Knowles, Beyonce's mother. Pastor Joel Osteen stopped by later in the afternoon. Advertisement Article continues below this ad President Joe Biden was expected to visit later Monday night, after delivering a speech earlier in Austin. The City Hall ceremony is the first of several this week to honor Jackson Lee, who died July 19 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The rotunda will be open for the public until 7 p.m. There will be a viewing and remembrance ceremony at Gods Grace Community Church from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, a viewing and community farewell at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church on Wednesday, and a celebration of life service at Fallbrook Church on Thursday. PRESIDENTIAL VISIT: President Joe Biden to pay respects to Sheila Jackson Lee in Houston Monday Vice President Kamala Harris, President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi are expected to attend Thursdays services. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The congresswoman is only the second person to lie in state at City Hall in downtown Houston. The first was Dr. Michael DeBakey, the renowned heart surgeon who died in 2008. Family members stand infant of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lees casket in the rotunda of Houston City Hall on Monday, July 29, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer If we were in Washington, wed be at the national Capitol lying in state, Whitmire said. So why not the best for the congresswoman, here in Houston, Texas? Jackson Lee served Houstons 18th Congressional District for nearly 30 years, first winning election in 1994. She had a reputation for her tireless work ethic and relentless constituent services, and she cruised to a primary victory again in March. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Potential tax increases and the latest NHS crisis feature heavily across the front pages of Mondays newspapers. The Guardian, The Times and Daily Express lead on Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to help fill a 20 billion hole in the public coffers. 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 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 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 The Daily Mail, the i and Daily Mirror all feature doctors saying they will bring the NHS to a standstill with industrial action, capping the number of patients they see every day. 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 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 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 The Independent leads on Labours plans to fast track laws that will see railways renationalised before the next general election. 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 The Daily Telegraph looks overseas with Israels defence minister Yoav Gallant vowing to hit the enemy hard after a rocket fired from Lebanon killed 12 children. 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 The Financial Times reports that the likely Democratic nominee for president Kamala Harris has seen a surge in donations to help fund her bid for the White House. 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 Convicted child rapist Steven van de Velde was met with boos as he made his Olympic debut on Sunday in beach volleyball for the Netherlands, reports the Metro. 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 The Daily Star splashes on rising temperatures with a headline that declares it is simply too hot to work. Six senior Tories are set to fight it out in a battle for the future of the Conservative Party in the wake of its worst-ever election result. Here are the candidates confirmed in the race to replace Rishi Sunak by the backbench 1922 Committee after nominations closed on Monday afternoon. Kemi Badenoch The bookmakers favourite said an incoherent set of policies were to blame for the party suffering its worst general election result. The shadow housing secretary used a Times article to launch her leadership bid, accusing successive Conservative prime ministers of allowing Britain to become increasingly liberal and tolerating nasty identity politics. She became an MP in 2017 and as minister for women and equalities, made a name for herself as an outspoken voice on gender issues, including by calling for a change to the Equality Act so that sex is defined only as someones biological sex. Kemi Badenoch is the bookmakers favourite in the race (Lucy North/PA) She said renewal was the first task for a new party leader and that she would aim to rebuild the party by 2030 and respond to Reform UKs threat from the right. The former business and trade secretary made a leadership attempt in 2022 after Boris Johnsons resignation, coming fourth. The North West Essex MP was born in Wimbledon, south-west London, but grew up in Nigeria and the US, returning to the UK at the age of 16. She has a Masters in engineering as well as being a Bachelor of Laws, and has worked at private bank Coutts and The Spectator. Ladbrokes has her as 7-4 favourite, while William Hill also makes her the favourite at 15-8. Robert Jenrick The former immigration minister is seen as the most likely contender to Ms Badenoch from the right of the party. He has successfully seen off his former Home Office boss Suella Braverman, who abandoned her own hopes of the leadership, and is expected to campaign on a tough stance of cutting immigration and pulling out of the European Convention on Human Rights. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick (Jonathan Brady/PA) Nicknamed Robert Generic when first elected to the Commons in 2014, he has gradually moved to the right. The MP for Newark resigned as a minister last December, claiming the then-draft legislation designed to revive the Rwanda deportation policy did not go far enough. He is 5-2 with Ladbrokes, 11-4 with William Hill. Tom Tugendhat 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 The shadow security minister looks set to fight it out with James Cleverly to become the main centrist candidate. Writing in The Daily Telegraph, the Tonbridge MP indicated he would be prepared to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) if it was necessary to secure the UKs borders. He denied the party would be split by the contest, because on key issues including the ECHR, gender, taxes, defence and net zero, all Tories shared the same common sense views. He previously unsuccessfully ran in 2022, when he pitched himself as the candidate untarnished by the scandals that dogged Mr Johnson and his government. Having first entered Parliament in 2015, Mr Tugendhat chaired the Foreign Affairs Committee for five years and previously served in the military. His odds are 4-1 with William Hill, 5-1 at Ladbrokes. James Cleverly 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 The shadow home secretary was the first Tory formally to declare his ambition to succeed Mr Sunak. He said he could unite the Conservative Party and overturn (Sir Keir) Starmers loveless landslide. The party needs to expand its base of support and shake off the impression that it is more focused on infighting than serving the public, he argued. Mr Cleverly, a centrist, took an apparent swipe at the right of his party when he warned against sacrificing pragmatic government in the national interest on the altar of ideological purity. In a social media video, he highlighted his credentials as having been both home and foreign secretary, as well as serving as party chairman when the Tories won their landslide in 2019. Mr Cleverly was first elected as the Conservative MP for Braintree in May 2015. After an injury cut short his Army career, he got a business degree and joined the Territorial Army. He worked in magazine and digital publishing before setting up his own business. He was a London Assembly member before he became an MP. Mr Cleverly is at 9-2 with William Hill and 6-1 at Ladbrokes. Dame Priti Patel Dame Priti is a longstanding Eurosceptic who has said she was inspired to join the Conservative Party by Margaret Thatcher. She became an MP in 2010 and served in Cabinet positions under Theresa May and Mr Johnson, as international development secretary and home secretary respectively. Dame Priti Patel (Andrew Matthews/PA) Dame Priti was a leading figure in the Vote Leave campaign, and as home secretary launched a points-based immigration system, signed the agreement with Rwanda to send asylum seekers to the country, and sealed returns deals with Albania and Serbia. She resigned as home secretary after Liz Truss became Tory leader. She said she could deliver the experienced and strong leadership needed to unite the Tories disparate factions. Launching her leadership bid with a Telegraph column, she said she would use the huge talent pool of Conservative Party members to solve the big challenges that Labour, the Lib Dems and Reform dont have answers to. Dame Pritis odds with both William Hill and Ladbrokes are 8-1. Mel Stride Shadow work and pensions secretary Mel Stride is a close ally of Rishi Sunak (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Shadow work and pensions secretary Mel Stride is one of Mr Sunaks closest allies and his frequent media appearances made him the face of the Tory campaign in the run-up to the election disaster. The MP for Central Devon, said he believed he was the right person to unite the party. He said: Weve substantially lost the trust of the British people and weve lost our reputation for competence, and I believe that Im in a very good position to address those issues going forward. But the bookmakers, at least, do not agree: Mr Stride is available at 20-1 from William Hill and 28-1 at Ladbrokes. The foreign ministers met at the Iikura guesthouse in Tokyo (AP) Top diplomats from Japan, the US, Australia and India have compiled a set of measures to reinforce maritime safety and cybersecurity and to support other Asia-Pacific countries in improving their defences during growing tensions in the regional seas. After the meeting in Tokyo, Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa, US secretary of state Antony Blinken, Australian foreign minister Penny Wong and Indian external affairs minister Subrahmayam Jaishankar said they were seriously concerned about the tensions and expressed strong opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo by coercion. They noted the militarisation of disputed features, and coercive and intimidating manoeuvres in the South China Sea as examples, but carefully avoided identifying China in their joint statement. 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 Several regional governments dispute Chinas sweeping territorial claims over the South China Sea, which has crucial maritime trade routes and potential energy reserves. It also claims self-governing Taiwan as its territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. At what are known as the Quad talks, the four ministers agreed on a number of initiatives to counter cyber attacks, ensure maritime security and deal with disinformation. They also announced expanded support for other countries, including in south-east Asia and Pacific islands, to bolster their abilities in those areas as the Quad seek to expand its partnerships. The ministers plan to launch a maritime legal dialogue to focus on the international law of the sea. They said they were determined to contribute to maintaining and developing free-and-open maritime order consistent with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea in the Indian and the Pacific Oceans and to enhance cooperation and coordination on it. Their initiatives included support for installing a secure telecommunications network in Palau and building cybersecurity capacity in the Philippines and India, according to the joint statement. The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to improving the regions connectivity through the development of resilient infrastructure such as undersea cables. The ministers did not explicitly mention China (AP) Mr Blinken told a joint news conference: We are committed to putting our collective resources, our collective strength to work to benefit people across the region that we share. We continue to work with partners to ensure that freedom of navigation, overflight, the unimpeded flow of lawful maritime commerce that these continue to go forward. They are critical to the regions security. Theyre critical to its ongoing prosperity. Ms Kamikawa said maritime security in the region is increasingly unstable, so unity and cooperation were needed more than ever among the Quad countries in securing a rules-based free and open international order. Without naming China, talks host Ms Kamikawa said escalating tensions in a certain region and cyber attacks by a certain country could easily spill to other countries and increase their risks. Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa hosted the talks (AP) In order to have the prosperity in the region, we must ensure stability of the foundation in maritime, cyber and space domains, she said. We Quad nations aim to protect the foundations of prosperity in the Indo-Pacific as we seek to achieve an international community of coexistence and coprosperity. Australias Ms Wong said the Quad nations were working to achieve a region that is governed by accepted rules and norms where all of us can cooperate, can trade and thrive and where sovereignty is respected and competition is managed responsibly. The talks came after Japan and the United States held their 2+2 security meeting on Sunday, when they called China the greatest strategic challenge. They agreed on further deepening military cooperation by making major upgrades to their command structures and bolstering Japanese production and repair of US-licensed weapons. In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader, newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian speaks after receiving official seal of approval of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an endorsement ceremony in Tehran, Iran, Sunday, July 28, 2024 (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/AP) Irans supreme leader has formally endorsed Masoud Pezeshkian as president, allowing the reformist politician and heart surgeon to take charge of a country weakened by economic sanctions over its nuclear programme. During an endorsement ceremony, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Mr Pezeshkian to prioritise neighbours, African and Asian nations, as well as countries that have supported and helped Iran in Tehrans foreign relations policies. The Ayatollah criticised European nations for behaving badly to us by adopting sanctions, and an oil embargo and for calling out alleged human rights abuses. He also condemned Israel for its actions in Gaza in the deaths of children, women and hospitalised people who did not shoot a single bullet against Israeli forces. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks after giving his official seal of approval to President Masoud Pezeshkian In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader (Office of the Supreme Leader/AP) The Zionist regime is showing its ugliest face as a war criminal, said Mr Khamenei, accusing Israel of setting a new record in assassinations and cruelty. He also denounced the US Congress for allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the legislative body. Speaking at the same ceremony, Mr Pezeshkian paid homage to General Qassem Soleimani, the architect of Irans regional military activities, who was killed in a US drone attack in 2020. He reiterated his promise to pursue a constructive and efficient foreign policy, bolster the rule of law offer equal opportunities to citizens, support families and protect the environment. In his first official act in office, Mr Pezeshkian appointed Mohammad Reza Aref, 72, as his first vice president. Mr Aref, who is considered a moderate reformist, held the post between 2001-2005 under former president Mohammad Khatami and holds a doctorate in engineering from Stanford University. Mr Pezeshkian takes over from Ebrahim Raisi, whose death in a May helicopter crash sparked the early election. Irans President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian prays next to a portrait of the late President Ebrahim Raisi (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/AP) He will take the oath of office in parliament on Tuesday and will have two weeks to form his cabinet for a vote of confidence in parliament. The new Iranian president pledged in his election campaign that he would make no radical changes to Irans Shiite theocracy, embracing the supreme leader as the final arbiter in all matters of state. Mr Pezeshkian has tried to walk the line between hard-liners and reformists with whom he has identified. He has repeatedly criticised the US while praising Irans powerful paramilitary Revolutionary Guard for shooting down a US drone in 2019 which he called a strong punch in the mount of the Americans. Among the pressing challenges he faces is the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip and Western fears over enriching uranium to near-weapons-grade levels with enough of a stockpile to produce several nuclear weapons if it chose. In April, Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel over the war in Gaza, while militia groups armed by Tehran including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Yemens Houthi rebels have stepped up their own attacks. Iran has held indirect talks with US President Joe Bidens administration over its nuclear programme, but there has been no progress in lifting tough economic sanctions against Tehran. President Nicolas Maduro displays a mini edition of Venezuelas constitution after voting in the presidential elections in Caracas (Fernando Vergara/AP) President Nicolas Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuelas presidential election, even as his opponents were preparing to dispute the results. The dispute sets up a high-stakes showdown that will determine whether the South American nation transitions away from one-party rule. Elvis Amoroso, head of the National Electoral Council, said Mr Maduro secured 51% of the vote, overcoming opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, who garnered 44%. He said the results were based on 80% of voting stations, marking an irreversible trend. It came as opposition leaders were celebrating, online and outside a few voting centres, what they saw as a landslide victory for Mr Gonzalez. Supporters of opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez gather outside the Andres Bello School voting centre in Caracas, Venezuela (Cristian Hernandez/AP) Their hope was boosted by exit polls which are not allowed under Venezuelan law showing a healthy margin of victory for Mr Gonzalez. The delay in announcing results six hours after polls were supposed to close indicated a deep debate inside the government about how to proceed after Mr Maduros opponents came out early in the evening all but claiming victory. The electoral authority, which is controlled by Maduro loyalists, has yet to release the official voting tallies from each of the 30,000 polling centres, hampering the oppositions ability to verify the results. Opposition representatives said tallies they collected from campaign representatives at 30% of voting centres showed Mr Gonzalez trouncing the president. The head of the electoral council said it would release the official voting acts in the coming hours. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States has serious concerns about the announced result. Its critical that every vote be counted fairly and transparently that the electoral authorities immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay and that the electoral authorities publish the tabulation of votes, he said. Chilen President Gabriel Boric described the results as difficult to believe. Mr Maduro seeking a third term, faced his toughest challenge yet from the unlikeliest of opponents a retired diplomat who was unknown to voters before becoming a last-minute stand-in for opposition powerhouse Maria Corina Machado, who was blocked by the Maduro-controlled supreme court from running for any office for 15 years in April. After voting, Mr Maduro said he would recognise the election result and urged all other candidates to publicly declare that they would do the same. No one is going to create chaos in Venezuela, he said. I recognise and will recognise the electoral referee, the official announcements and I will make sure they are recognised. Voters started lining up at some voting centres across the country before dawn Sunday, sharing water, coffee and snacks for several hours. Protests over skyrocketing power bills have shut down a major road into Pakistans capital as some 3,000 supporters of a major Islamist party continued a sit-in despite pouring monsoon rains. In Pakistans south-west, meanwhile, thousands protested against police violence, an internet shutdown and major road closures. At least one person was reportedly killed. Protesters demanding that the government withdraw taxes on electricity to offset price hikes have occupied a road in the garrison city of Rawalpindi since Friday, as police prevented them from heading to the capital Islamabad. Hoisting the white, blue, and green flags of the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party, the protesters chanted: This cruel increase in electricity bills is not acceptable. The government has met with protest leaders, but given no indication that it is considering accepting their demands. Naeem-ur-Rehman, who heads the Jamaat-e-Islami party that called for the protests, says it is prepared to remain on the streets for as long as it takes. The government raised power prices 26% during the last fiscal year, which ended on June 30, before tacking on another 20% increase on July 13. Hundreds of supporters of the key Islamist party began a sit-in protest in the garrison city of Rawalpindi late on Friday (AP) Officials say the increases were needed to meet conditions set by the International Monetary Fund for a seven billion dollar (5.4 billion) loan deal made earlier this month. The government has also added a confusing bevy of taxes on top of the base price, adding up to a bill that has more than doubled for some Pakistanis. Asma Humayon, who teaches at a private school in the city of Lahore, said: This month I paid 22,000 rupees (62) for my electricity bill, while in May I only paid 10,000 rupees (28). I dont know how to run the kitchen; now half of my salary is going to my energy bill. Hundreds of supporters of the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party, mainly women, also rallied against rising bills in Lahore. Pakistani economist Ashfaque Hasan said another factor in costly power is a deal the government made in the 1990s to buy power from private companies at high prices. Pakistan and these independent power producing companies cannot co-exist, Mr Hasan said. Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis have started using solar panels in recent years to avoid heavy electricity bills and power outages, although not everyone can afford the systems. In Baluchistan province in Pakistans south-west, meanwhile, thousands protested against police violence, an internet shutdown and highway closures, community leaders said. People had been heading across Baluchistan province a day earlier to take part in a mass gathering when security forces reportedly opened fire to disperse the crowds, according to a statement from the event organisers. (AP) At least one person was killed and seven were injured, they said, while Amnesty International put the death toll at three. However, the military said its own forces had been attacked by a violent mob in the district of Gwadar and that one soldier was killed and 16 wounded. In a statement, it said propaganda was being spread against the military on social media. It said the troops exercised extreme restraint to avoid civilian casualties but those behind the violence would be brought to justice. It is the latest unrest to strike the countrys largest and poorest province. Armed groups have waged an insurgency against the state for decades, demanding independence. There are also deep grievances about enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and the exploitation of Baluchistans abundant natural resources at the expense of people in the province.The mass gathering was intended to air these grievances. Following Sundays violence, a statement from the human rights advocacy group Baloch Yakjehti Committee warned Islamabad that the situation would escape the states control if authorities continued to use force on peaceful public gatherings. You people have created an apocalypse in Baluchistan for the last two days, injured many people, martyred a youth and forcibly disappeared hundreds, the committee said. A spokesperson for the Baluchistan government, Shahid Rind, said the provincial minister was heading to the city of Gwadar to try to contact the committees leaders. CenterPoint Energy CEO Jason Wells speaks to commissioners of the Public Utilities Commission of Texas during a meeting Thursday, July 25, 2024, at in the Commissioners Hearing Room at the William B. Travis State Office Building Austin. Jon Shapley/AP A state lawmaker said Monday he was considering pushing legislation to recoup some of the $800 million CenterPoint Energy spent on massive generators that sat idle as Hurricane Beryl knocked power from more than 2 million Houston area customers. State Sen. Paul Bettencourt said the company had defrauded rate payers, who were now strapped with growing utility bills after state regulators allowed CenterPoint to recoup the cost of the generators plus a 6.5% profit. The utility company has already raised the average residential customers bill by about $1 per month and the rate hikes could jump another $3 per month in the coming years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its a big problem, because weve got basically these boat anchors strapped around our rate payers for a long period of time, the Houston Republican said during a contentious hearing where CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells testified that he took personal responsibility for the utilitys failings, but said he would not resign. Bettencourt said he was considering legislation that would claw back some of this expense, though he did not say more about what that might entail. Bettencourt accused CenterPoint of choosing to spend money on the generators rather than clearing trees that knocked out power lines, because CenterPoint can make a profit on the generators. CenterPoint has repeatedly blamed toppled trees and broken branches for leaving over 80% of its area customers without power, some for more than a week. Vegetation management the utility doesnt make profit on, Bettencourt said. However, they make a profit on generator expenses. If you dont make a profit on vegetation management, you may reduce those numbers. The comments came during the first hearing of a special committee tasked with examining the states hurricane preparedness and utilities response after Beryl. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The panel Monday morning questioned Thomas Gleeson, the chairman of the Public Utility Commission, which regulates electric companies in the state. Senators asked whether legislation should be considered that would boost penalties on utilities that cant keep the power on, set new standards for customer communication and more. This cannot be the new normal, said state Sen. Carol Alvarado, a Houston Democrat. The senators used much of the hearing to air their grievances with CenterPoint, which state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst said had broken the social contract with its customers. Senators questioned why the utility could not keep its outage map working, why it was not doing a better job removing trees and why it had sunk so much into generators that were not usable. Bettencourt and state Sen. Charles Schwertner, who chairs the panel, questioned the contract CenterPoint struck for the generators, going so far as to suggest it amounted to fraud. Bettencourt said the utility passed over a competing bid with a price tag that was at least 44% lower. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It doesnt smell good at all, Schwertner said, noting the company appears to be raking in a roughly $30 million profit on the massive generator purchase. Theres more to this story that I hope comes out sooner rather than later. Wells said the competing bid was not in line with what the utility sought, in part because the lower bidder could not provide as many generator units and its cost to operate them was four times higher. Its kind of apples and oranges, but it was a non-conforming bid, Wells said. Wells said the generator purchase is part of an aggressive investment campaign the utility has undergone to boost resilience in recent years. He said that while the generators have not yet been used, there have been 115 instances in which ERCOT has issued notices that the market is tight since Winter Storm Uri. Most of the generators CenterPoint purchased cant be easily deployed. Fifteen of them each with a capacity of 32 megawatts, big enough to power entire neighborhoods take several days to assemble and cannot be moved without a special permit, which itself can take days to secure. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wells said the utility has identified a 40-point checklist of improvements it plans to undertake and will launch a website updating customers on the progress. Those include hiring a new communications officer and a new emergency preparedness officer. He said a new outage tracker would be live Thursday. Wells also said that since the beginning of last year, the utility has significantly increased what it spends clearing vegetation where it can. But the utility cannot trim trees on private property without permission, he said. Annual reports to the Public Utility Commission show CenterPoints vegetation maintenance costs jumped 77% over the last decade, but the number of miles the company kept clear along power lines fell 20%. The utility leader said he has no plans to step down amid the post-Beryl firestorm, saying if he were to resign today, CenterPoint would lose momentum. Houston Mayor John Whitmire implored the panel to hold the utility to account, saying, Enough is enough. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its time to hold CenterPoint accountable, he said. Its either complacency or incompetence. But the bottom line is they must do better. It was a pleasure to sit in the sun on the lawn on Sunday afternoon during Koussevitzky's 150th birthday celebration weekend, escaping the to-do list, munching on High Lawns queen cheese and watching the visitor world stride or stroll by. Court files show testimony from a witness has convinced a Berkshire Superior Court to continue to hold the suspect in the shooting without the right to bail before his trial on charges that include armed assault to murder. If youve ever been stuck in gridlock on Mount Greylock especially on weekends and holidays when the summit is jammed with sightseers it may be no surprise that tourism officials are concerned about overcrowding in the Berkshires. Earlier this year, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and their partner, 1 Berkshire the state-designated regional tourism council for the county created a companion website, www.berkshiresoutside.org, to the go-to official online tourism tool, www.berkshires.org. In addition to Mount Greylock State Reservation, which includes the states highest peak (3,491 feet), Bascom Lodge and the Veterans War Memorial Tower, other destinations prone to over-tourism include Kennedy Park in Lenox and Monument Mountain in Great Barrington, said Laura Brennan, assistant director and economic development program manager of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. All of these have the common element of beautiful views, and, understandably, they're all popular locations on main thoroughfares or otherwise easy to find and well-marked, she said. The commission coordinated the listings for the new website, which has had 29,000 users so far. During countywide outdoor recreation planning that led to the new website, Brennan noted, concerns were voiced about the overuse of trails and the negative impacts on visitor experience, plants, and wildlife. Diverting visitors to more destinations helps preserve trail conditions and an areas ecology, she suggested. Each year, at least 20,000 hikers make it to Peeskawso Peak, the summit of Monument Mountain, according to the Trustees of Reservations, which manages the 1,642-foot site. Less-crowded destinations recommended by Brennan with just as great a payoff, is Pittsfield State Forest, which a well-marked, extensive trail network and Berry Pond at the summit with especially scenic views westward into New York state and azalea fields in season. More remote locales with notable scenic views include Alander Mountain in the town of Mount Washington and the Alford Springs Father Loop Trail. Sharing more of what the region offers builds our reputation as an outdoor recreation destination, encouraging repeat visitation and longer stays at our lodging properties, Brennan said. It can also plant the seed for people who might relocate to the area with a better understanding of how much there is to enjoy. In this region, outdoor recreation is a key component of our quality of life, she said. Increasingly, it is recognized as a factor for economic development, especially as a way to appeal to potential new residents. The main purpose of berkshiresoutside.org is to list more than 550 outdoor recreation destinations, some of which are relatively uncrowded. Included are more than 400 parks within Berkshire County owned and managed by nearly 100 different organizations. The listing pinpoints scenic views but also includes trailheads and boat launches, as well as locations that are dog friendly and family friendly with picnic or restroom facilities. Acknowledging increased annual visitation to the county, 1Berkshires Senior Vice President of Tourism and Marketing Lindsey Schmid described the online portal as a dramatic expansion of internet resources for a full Berkshire experience, including cultural pursuits, dining options and lodging plans. The site, built by Gemini Creative of Stockbridge, included guidance from other outdoor recreation stakeholders such as the Berkshire Natural Resources Council and the state Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Promotion of outdoor recreation in the Commonwealth, especially in ways that support rural and community development and provide welcoming, inclusive, and accessible ways to enjoy the outdoors, is what our work is all about, said Paul Jahnige, director of the states recently formed Office of Outdoor Recreation. The Berkshires Outside website delivers on all of those themes beautifully," he stated. The portal, which also allows users to find sites within a quarter-mile of BRTA bus routes, emerged from the Outdoor Recreation Plan for Berkshire County, created in 2020 by the regional planning commission and its partner, Mill Town Foundation. Getting all this information into one place was the most common thread in all the conversations, interviews, and public input sessions we held, said Brennan. Its not just about encouraging people to explore the outdoors, she added, Its also going to help reduce the impact on delicate landscapes and habitats by sending foot traffic to less traveled but just as amazing locations. With 875 miles of marked and mapped trails in the county, hidden gems will no longer be hard to find. We can tag things as less traveled, said Schmid of 1Berkshire. She also recommended shoulder seasons, with less costly lodging and plenty of space outdoors. Go to Monument in November, she recommended. Youll have it to yourself. Despite the end of the formal session on Thursday, Massachusetts House leaders indicated that a handful of proposals might still be in play. Preschool children at the L.E.A.P. Head Start Cambridge Valley Center engage in activities following their sign language session on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, in Cambridge, N.Y. Will Waldron/Times Union The claim:Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, warned that Project 2025, a conservative policy agenda, could spell the end for Head Start, a federally funded program that supports early education and other services for low-income Americans. During a July 18 campaign event in Fayetteville, N.C., Harris said, Their Project 2025 agenda would even end Head Start to take away preschool from hundreds of thousands of our children. Advertisement Article continues below this ad PolitiFact ruling: True. Harris claim about ending Head Start, which the Department of Health and Human Services administers, is accurate. On Page 482, the document reads: Eliminate the Head Start program. Discussion Some Biden-Harris warnings about Project 2025 have gone too far in describing what the policy blueprint calls for, including exaggerating claims about its effect on Social Security and abortion policy. Other claims are accurate; much of the plan calls for extensive executive branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues, such as LGBTQ issues and diversity, equity and inclusion. Project 2025 lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president. Two related programs, Head Start and Early Head Start, collectively provide free early childhood education, health and nutrition services for infants, toddlers and preschoolers from low-income families. The programs are federally funded but are run by local nonprofit organizations and focus on pregnant women and children up to 5 years old. Head Start was established in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnsons Great Society initiative. During the 2022-23 school year, the program enrolled about 788,000 children and 13,000 pregnant women. For fiscal year 2024, Congress appropriated $12.27 billion for the Office of Head Start. Approximately two-thirds of program participants are Black or Latino. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2023, President Joe Biden signed an executive order calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to reduce Head Start eligibility barriers and to increase pay and benefits for the programs teachers and staff. Although a Democratic president enacted the program, lawmakers from both parties have regularly supported Head Start since its creation. During his presidency, former President Donald Trumps daughter Ivanka brought attention to early childhood education and convened a panel in Mississippi in 2018 that included a local Head Start official. Head Start tends to be popular with a wide cross section of voters. A July 2023 poll by the Republican firm Public Opinion Strategies on behalf of the First Five Years Fund, a child care advocacy group, found widespread support for Head Start across party lines. When asked whether increases to funding for Head Start and Early Head Start should increase, 71% of Republicans and 89% of Democrats said yes. Project 2025 is a presidential transition project led by the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank with contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations. The foundation released a 900-page guide in 2023 advocating a range of policies to be instituted following a potential Republican win in November. In his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has sought to disassociate himself from Project 2025, writing on Truth Social that he knows nothing about the project and has no idea who leads it. However, CNN reported that at least 140 former Trump administration advisers contributed to the project. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Max Eden, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank in Washington, D.C., drew a distinction between congressional Republicans views of Head Start and those of outside conservative groups. Theres quite a bit of daylight between conservative think tanks and the Republican Party proper, much less President Trump, Eden said. The call to end Head Start is pretty common within the conservative wonk sphere. Heritage has been saying this for many, many years. The Project 2025 document proposes that Head Start be eliminated entirely because it is fraught with scandal and abuse. Given its unaddressed crisis of rampant abuse and lack of positive outcomes, this program should be eliminated along with the entire (office that runs it). At the very least, the programs COVID-19 vaccine and mask requirements should be rescinded, the document says on Page 482. (The Department of Health and Human Services published final rules eliminating the universal masking and vaccine requirements for Head Start programs in January 2023 and June 2023, respectively.) The Project 2025 document cited a Heritage Foundation report from 2022 that details 1,000 incidents in which children were abused, left unsupervised or released to an unauthorized person while enrolled in Head Start programs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It also referred to Heritage Foundation research that said Head Start programs do not have lasting positive effects on students academic achievement. Greg J. Duncan, a professor in the University of California, Irvines School of Education, told PolitiFact that eliminating Head Start would be a consequential development for low-income families, including the one-third of participants who were dual-language learners, most of them in families that speak primarily Spanish at home. Also, by providing no-cost child care services, Head Start helps to support parental employment efforts, Duncan said. Pre-K programs are a rapidly growing alternative to Head Start, but most pre-K programs have to ration slots owing to high demand. Reducing Head Start slots would undoubtedly increase further the demand for pre-K programs, and cost more for families out of pocket. Head Starts effectiveness in improving educational readiness is more of an open question. In 2005, a report by agencies including the Department of Health and Human Services, found that a year of Head Start improved cognitive skills, but only modestly. A 2010 report by the same groups showed that by the end of first grade, the effects phased out. And the next report in the series, released in 2012, found no effect by the end of elementary school. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Eden pointed to a 2019 study that found no statistically significant impacts on earnings and mixed evidence of impacts on other adult outcomes. Duncan acknowledged that longer-run benefits of the program on childrens developmental trajectories are still being debated. ARCHIVE - The Thai Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, speaks at a press conference at the Federal Chancellery. Photo: Hannes P Albert/dpa Keystone Thailand is facing two politically groundbreaking weeks. Next week, on Wednesday, August 7, the Constitutional Court will decide whether to dissolve the progressive Move Forward party, which clearly won the parliamentary elections last year. Just one week later, the political future of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who could be removed from office by the Constitutional Court, will be at stake. SDA In the first case, the court must examine whether Move Forward is unconstitutional at the request of the Electoral Commission because the party has campaigned for the strict law on lese majeste to be relaxed. This provides for up to 15 years in prison for violations and has long been controversial among democratic forces in the country. Bans on uncomfortable parties are nothing new in Thailand. Move Forward's predecessor, Future Forward, was also banned in 2020. Party does not want to give up The party leaders were combative and announced in a video on Facebook at the weekend that the party would not fall silent even if it was dissolved: "The dissolution of a political party only ends a legal organization, but can never silence its ideology," they said. Although Move Forward won the most votes in the parliamentary elections, it did not come to power in the end. Its leading candidate, Pita Limjaroenrat, was repeatedly rejected as a candidate for prime minister by senators with close ties to the military. Possible impeachment? After weeks of political turmoil, Pita was finally booted out by former alliance partner Pheu Thai and their candidate Srettha Thavisin, who was elected head of government in August last year. However, Thavisin himself is now under threat again. Dozens of senators with close ties to the military filed a lawsuit against the former real estate mogul in May, accusing him of violating regulations by appointing politician Phichit Chuenban as minister - as he has a criminal record. Phichit was sentenced to six months' imprisonment in 2008 for contempt of court in a bribery scandal. If Srettha is disqualified, the kingdom will once again be facing troubled times. Anutin Charnvirakul, the deputy prime minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai party, is already being touted as a possible new prime minister. SDA The St. Gallen cantonal police are searching for two perpetrators after a robbery in Bad Ragaz. (symbolic image) Keystone On Sunday evening at 7.20 p.m., two people robbed a 78-year-old man of a wristwatch costing several thousand francs in the railroad station underpass in Bad Ragaz. The two strangers snatched the watch from the wrist of the senior citizen and fled, wrote the St. Gallen cantonal police in a statement on Monday. SDA The search for the perpetrators has so far been unsuccessful. SDA Elon Musk is once again being criticized after reposting an AI-manipulated presidential ad for Vice President Kamala Harris supposedly mocking herself, the Democrat Party, and President Joe Biden. The now-viral video was reshared on Musk's official X (formerly Twitter) page last Friday showing Harris's first presidential ad overlayed with a deepfake of her voice claiming that she was only nominated because she was the "ultimate diversity hire." The video also called Biden, who earlier stepped down for candidacy in this coming Presidential Elections, a "senile" following his debate with Republican nominee Donald Trump last month. This is amazing pic.twitter.com/KpnBKGUUwn Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 26, 2024 Musk's post quickly gained over 126.5 million views as many users accused the X owner of "blatant election interference" for the AI-manipulated ad as per the Federal Communication Commission guidelines. Elon Musk's AI-Manipulated Post Evades X's Policies Coincidentally, the post did not receive any "manipulated media" label, a new platform label that has since popped up after supposed Twitter API leaks show several "protected users" free from consequence on the platform. Included in the whitelisted users are Musk, Trump, and several right-wing accounts that have already been fact-checked before for spreading political misinformation. In response, Harris's campaign team asserted that it believes that the American people want the "real freedom, opportunity, and security" the Vice President offers over the "fake, manipulated lies" Musk and Trump disseminate. Musk, who earlier declared support for Trump, has yet to make a statement about the matter. AI-Fueled Misinformation Surges Ahead of 2024 US Elections The AI-manipulated ads of Harris were not the first, nor likely the last time, generative AI was involved in powering disinformation online as the 2024 US Presidential Elections loom near. Earlier in January, Biden's deepfaked voice was reported in New Hampshire telling residents to not vote for the President in the Democrat Party's first major Primary. The mastermind of the Biden deepfakes later claimed that the AI-generated calls were supposedly made to emphasize the need for regulations on generative AI's application to politics. FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel has since proposed the introduction of AI tools in political ads to help the commission better regulate the technology ahead of the November voting polls' opening. Holly Valance has paid tribute to Neighbours co-star Janet Andrewartha following her death at the age of 72. Australian actress Andrewartha played hairdresser Lyn Scully for around 20 years from 1999. Advertisement Lyn entered the fictional Melbourne neighbourhood of Erinsborough as the mother of Stephanie (Carla Bonner), Felicity (Valance), and Michelle (Kate Keltie), and was married to Joe (Shane Connor). On X, formerly Twitter, Valance wrote that the loss was deeply sad, while sharing an image of the two of them together. Deeply sad losing Janet Andrewartha. She was a superb human being who taught me so much from the age of 15. I'll treasure her last trip to the UK forever. Precious memories I'm so grateful for. A beautiful, talented, hilarious & kind woman. I'm so glad it was you who played my pic.twitter.com/WYzSbCcxqU Advertisement Holly Candy (@hollycandy) July 28, 2024 She added: She was a superb human being who taught me so much from the age of 15. Ill treasure her last trip to the UK forever. Precious memories Im so grateful for. A beautiful, talented, hilarious & kind woman. Advertisement Im so glad it was you who played my mum. You were the real deal. Made us feel safe. And looked after us when we were all so young in the industry. It was an honour to work beside you and call you a friend. The Neighbours official account on Instagram said: Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Streets Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner. Advertisement It added that she had many friendships at Neighbours and one of her most enduring bonds was with Jackie Woodburne, who played teacher Susan Kennedy. Woodburne, also known for female inmate soap Prisoner and hospital-set The Young Doctors, said: Janet was one of the finest actors of her generation but, more than that, she was an extraordinary woman. Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day. Advertisement Andrewarthas character had a storyline where she tries to blackmail businessman Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis) over an affair. Dennis paid tribute, writing: So very upset to lose the lovely Janet. As Jackie said, she truly was an exceptional actress who was a pleasure work with and to be around. We will all miss you dear girl. Prisoner and Neighbours star Colette Mann said she was shocked to hear this news. She added: I can only echo Jackies words about Janet brilliant, crazy in the best way, a good friend and great colleague. TV personality Joey Essex has been dumped from Love Island a day before the final along with his partner Jessy Potts. Essex, who rose to fame on The Only Way Is Essex (Towie) before appearing on a host of reality shows, entered the dating series as the shows first celebrity contestant and was voted out by the other hopefuls. Advertisement The islanders said he and Jessy were the least compatible couple. He has previously been on the UK and Australian editions of Im A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! along with the show Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, Celebrity MasterChef, Celebs Go Dating and Dancing On Ice. Essex said: It feels good to be leaving, I feel like I had an amazing run in there, went through the full cycle of emotions you get in the villa, and if you have to leave, you might as well go out with a bang Its my birthday on Monday so feels like Im going out at a good time. During his stint, he flirted with Harriett Blackmore, Samantha Kenny, his ex Grace Jackson, and other women before coupling up with Leicester brand partnerships associate Jessy, saying he fancied her straight away. Advertisement The returning Islanders have sealed Joey and Jessys fate, as they become the next Couple to be dumped from the Island Swipe to see the results of the vote #LoveIsland pic.twitter.com/TsUV9YqBqu Love Island (@LoveIsland) July 28, 2024 Advertisement Essex said: I could tell we had an instant connection and she was a bit of me. We had something that was quite strong, and hopefully proved that to people by sticking with each other throughout Casa and right up to the end. When asked if he had any regrets, he said: With Samantha, perhaps it would have been better if wed drawn a line under it earlier on and just focused on having a friendship. With Grace, I dont feel like there were any hard feelings but as Ive said it was difficult living with an ex while getting to know someone else. Generally though the two of us were always cool. Advertisement However, he acknowledged that some people might be sceptical considering how my earlier connections in the villa ended up but ultimately the show is about finding a true connection and the best connection possible and thats what I did. He added: Ultimately it is nice to walk out with someone who has meant a lot to me throughout my time on the show. Asked what is the first thing he will do on returning to Essex, he said: Visit my friends and family, maybe apologise to a few for keeping it a secret from them, and then crack on with life Joey Essex style. The finalists include four couples and contestants such as Ciaran Davies, a surveyor from Pencoed, South Wales, Ayo Odukoya, a model from Canning Town, Nicole Samuel, an accounts manager from Aberdare, and Sean Stone, a salesman from Herford. Advertisement Love Island The Live Final airs on Monday at 9pm on Virgin Media Two and the Virgin Media Player. A man who wore a Vendetta mask while viciously assaulting his elderly neighbour with a shovel in the early hours of the morning has been jailed for 11 and a half years. James ONeill (57) took a selfie of himself wearing the mask and holding the shovel as he lay in wait in a stairwell for his then 73-year-old victim. Gardai later found the picture on his phone. Advertisement Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Patrick Hansard, now 78 years old, suffered multiple injuries, including skull fractures, lacerations, haematoma, a fracture to his cervical spine, and a traumatic brain injury. He has no memory of the assault but continues to suffer ongoing effects. ONeill of Courtney Place, Ballybough, Dublin 3, was convicted by a jury following a trial earlier this year of causing serious harm to Mr Hansard in a stairwell near his home on August 17th, 2019. Passing sentence on Monday, Judge Elva Duffy noted the significant impact the offence had on Mr Hansard and extended the court's appreciation for the dignified way he had attended court. Judge Duffy noted it had been a completely unprovoked attack by ONeill on someone who was 20 years his senior. She said there had been an element of pre-meditation in that he had lain in wait for his victim and used a weapon. Advertisement The judge noted ONeills prior convictions were historical, that there was an element of intoxication, and referred to the letter from his daughter noting ONeill was someone with the capacity to do good. She took into account the trial had been run in an expeditious manner. Judge Duffy set a headline sentence of 13 years, but taking into account mitigating factors, she imposed a sentence of 11 and a half years. Sergeant Enda OSullivan told Eoghan Cole BL, prosecuting, that there had been a verbal interaction between the neighbours at a pub in the early hours of the morning. ONeill left the pub and went home, while Mr Hansard walked home with his partner half an hour later. Sgt OSullivan said that on the way, Mr Hansards partner stopped to talk to someone while he went ahead alone. A short time later, she saw a man wearing a white mask leaving the stairwell to Mr Hansards flat and going into ONeills house. Advertisement She found Mr Hansard on the ground with injuries to his head. Paramedics were alerted and gave assistance. ONeill was seen in the area interacting with neighbours at this time. Gardai obtained a search warrant for ONeills flat and recovered a phone that contained a selfie photo of the accused wearing the mask and holding a shovel. The picture had been taken in the stairwell near where the assault took place about 15 minutes prior to Mr Hansard's arrival. Other images on the phone showed the aftermath with Mr Hansard being treated and the arrival of the gardai. Clothing recovered matched the clothing seen on the selfie and worn by ONeill the previous night. CCTV CCTV pieced together the parties' movements. It showed a man coming from ONeills flat wearing a mask and carrying a shovel at 2:18am, a few minutes before Mr Hansard walked in. Advertisement The same figure was seen leaving the stairwell before Mr Hansards partner arrived and went into ONeills flat. The mask was described in court as a Guy Fawkes or Vendetta style mask. ONeill was interviewed and assisted the gardai by supplying his phone's PIN, but nothing of evidential value came from his interviews. Mr Hansard suffered multiple injuries, including skull fractures and a severe traumatic brain injury. He remained hospitalised from August 2019 to May 2020. Doctors were not initially confident of a significant recovery. Advertisement Mr Cole told the court that happily, Mr Hansard has since made a remarkable recovery, although he still suffers from impairments and difficulties in his daily life. ONeill has two previous convictions, one for occasioning actual bodily harm in 1992, for which he received a suspended sentence, and a public order offence. Sgt OSullivan agreed with James Dwyer SC, defending, that the mask also appeared in an older photograph some months prior to the assault, so the mask had not been procured for the assault. The Garda agreed with counsel that the accused had bought alcohol on the night and appeared to be under the influence to some extent. In his victim impact statement, Mr Hansard outlined how he had been born in 1946 and grew up in tenement housing in Gardiner Street, which was considered a rough and difficult place, but the first violence he encountered was this offence in August 2019. He outlined how it had been his daily practice to walk to Dollymount Strand, but the maximum distance he can walk now is 400 meters, and he has not fully recovered his movement on one side. He said he has difficulty speaking, slurs his words and suffers from severe anxiety and depression. He said his life has changed completely and will suffer these changes for the rest of his life. Mr Hansard thanked his family, friends and neighbours for their support over the past five years. He also thanked the gardai involved in the case for their dedicated work. James Dwyer SC, defending, submitted that ONeill had not been in trouble for over 20 years and had cooperated with the investigation. He said intoxication was a factor in the case, and there had not been premeditation over a long period of time. Counsel handed in a letter from ONeills daughter outlining how he had been a good and caring parent to her. He said ONeill was a hard-working man and had a good work history. He said he had played a part in his local community, church and assisted others with his IT skills. A Dublin man who raped two sex workers and attempted to rape a third in separate incidents over an eight-month period in 2021 has been jailed for 18 years. Aaron Barwell (29) of Coldcut Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, pleaded guilty to one count of oral rape, one of rape and one of attempted rape on dates between January and August 2021. Advertisement The three victims were all working as escorts at the time, and each had a profile on a website listing their services. The Central Criminal Court previously heard that Barwell arranged for each victim to come to his residence on separate occasions, where he carried out the offences. Imposing sentence on Monday, Mr Justice Tony Hunt noted Barwell had committed a series of violent sexual offences against women. Describing the facts of the case as abysmal, he noted that Barwell initially gave each victim an incorrect address, which he said showed a certain amount of deviousness in terms of planning. Advertisement The judge noted this was a case which involved considered, planned and serious sexual offending of a sequential variety. He said it is concerning that the second and third offences were committed in light of the first and that this case cries out for consecutive sentences. The judge also noted the use of violence went beyond that inherent in the offences and that Barwell had falsely induced the victims to believe he was an ordinary customer. Mr Justice Hunt said it appeared to the court that Barwell may have made a calculation that ladies who pursue this type of activity might be less tempted to bring it further. However, the judge said, If that was part of his calculation, the gamble came spectacularly unstuck. Advertisement Mr Justice Hunt noted people who commit offences of this nature will pay a very heavy price. The judge said that the days of a lenient approach to violence against women are gone. If you choose to engage in that behaviour, a heavy price has to be paid. I think courts and society want that to be the position. Referring to the victim impact statements, Mr Justice Hunt said they expressed the stress, anxiety, fear and long-term damage caused to the women. Advertisement He expressed the view that the stress and anxiety may never go away. Like anything else of a serious nature in life, one can accommodate oneself to these matters. But the clock can never be turned back. Mr Justice Hunt set a total headline sentence of 36 years to reflect the gravity of the offending. He said the court didn't think this was disproportionate to the wrongdoing in this case, noting that Barwell is a relatively young man who, with ordinary luck, would be able to serve a sentence of that variety. However, Mr Justice Hunt said the court was conscious that 36 years is a significant period and having considered the principles of totality and proportionality, he reduced the headline sentence to 27 years. Advertisement Mr Justice Hunt said it would be unacceptable to have a sentencing regime which suggested that second or subsequent serious offending should come at little or no cost, and this must be considered to be aggravating. The judge noted the mitigation, including the guilty plea, which was of significant importance and value. He also said he took into consideration Barwell's age, background, his lack of previous convictions and the need to encourage rehabilitation. Mr Justice Hunt handed Barwell a total sentence of 20 years, with the final two years suspended. He further directed Barwell to undergo four years of post-release supervision, have no contact with any of the injured parties, and commit no further sexual offences in his lifetime. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. A 32-year-old man with autism who sued over an alleged failure to diagnose his condition in his early years claiming he had allegedly missed out on an autism specific education, has settled a High Court action for 125,000. The settlement is the end of a long legal road for the family of Keith Callaghan who first initiated proceedings over 10 years ago. Advertisement Mr Callaghan has an autism spectrum disorder, and it is claimed he is unable to read or write or do any mathematical problems beyond the simplest addition, and he has no functional reading skills. Keith Callaghan of Rahoon, Galway had through his mother Caroline Callaghan, sued the HSE; the Minister for Education, Ireland and the Attorney General as well as Brothers of Charity Services, Renmore, Galway which provides services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and the board of management of St Josephs Special School, Newcastle, Co Galway. The settlement is without an admission of liability. The court also ordered that a fixed outlay sum of 50,000 legal costs be paid to Mr Callaghan's solicitors. In the proceedings, it was claimed there was an alleged failure to diagnose Mr Callaghan's condition either adequately or in a timely manner and an alleged failure to provide an autism specific educational service. Advertisement It was further maintained that Mr Callaghan had been placed in a general special education school for the entirety of his school years allegedly without any or any adequate assessment of his needs or progress. The HSE, it was claimed, allegedly failed to comply with its obligations under the legislation, and it was contended there was an alleged failure by the Minister for Education to comply with the obligations under the legislation. There was, it was maintained, an alleged failure to arrange appropriate assessment of Mr Callaghan and alleged opportunities to identify his autism were missed. All of the claims were denied. Advertisement Mr Callaghan's counsel Alastair Rutherdale BL instructed by David OMalley solicitor, told the court that Mr Callaghan had been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in November 2009, just before his 18th birthday. Counsel said it was too late at that stage. Counsel said it was their case that Mr Callaghan should have been diagnosed from early in his childhood. Mr Rutherdale said it had been a long and hard road for Mr Callaghan and his family. Approving the settlement and granting the order to pay the costs, Ms Justice Nuala Jackson allowed 5,000 to be laid out immediately to the family for a holiday. The judge noted the proceedings had been going on a long time and said the holiday was something they all deserved. Outside court, Mr Callaghan's solicitor David OMalley applauded the Callaghan family for their resilience during their long legal battle, and he said he hoped lessons can be learned from the case. Three students have launched High Court proceedings aimed at overturning their expulsions from Dundalk Institute of Technology. The actions have been brought by Margaret Eyong Taku, Wendy Briggs, and Christina Igweze who were all made the subject of internal disciplinary proceedings arising out of several related alleged incidents that occurred on the college's campus involving the three on January 30th-31th, 2024. Advertisement Amongst the allegations are that the three were involved in an alleged aggressive physical altercation with each other. The three students were initially suspended from their courses as the college deemed the allegations amounted to a "serious offence" under its own disciplinary procedures and regulations, and code of conduct. The allegations, of disorderly behaviour, the physical abuse of another person and being involved in an aggressive physical altercation with another person, were considered by a disciplinary committee of the college. In February, that committee recommended that all three be expelled from the college and banned from its campus and grounds. Advertisement The three, who claim that they had never been involved in disciplinary proceedings beforehand, appealed that decision. In April, an Appeals Committee of the college considered and rejected all three of their appeals. In separate but similar High Court actions, all three students claim the decision arrived by the college is flawed and should be set aside. They claim that the findings made by the college were made outside of its powers of and in excess of its jurisdiction. Advertisement It is also alleged that the findings were disproportionate, and that the college failed to have regard to relevant considerations. It is further claimed that the college failed to provide adequate reasons for its decision. Prior to their expulsion, Ms Taku, from Tinnamona Callan, Co Killenny and Ms Christina Igweze of Knightsgate Avenue, Rush Co Dublin, were undergraduate students in the college's Bachelor of Science in Mental Health Nursing. Ms Briggs from North Road Drogheda, Co Louth was an undergraduate student in the college's Bachelor of Science in Bioscience. Advertisement In their actions against the college the three students, represented by Mark William Murphy Bl instructed by solicitor Conor MacGuill, each seek orders quashing the college's decision to expel them, that they be re-admitted back to their respective programmes, and damages from the respondent. . They also seek various declarations from the court, including one that the college acted outside its powers and in excess of its jurisdiction in its conclusions that the applicants constituted a major offence and referring it to the colleges discipline committee. They seek declarations that the college also acted in excess of its jurisdiction when its appeals' committee arrived at decisions that were irrational, unreasonable, disproportionate, and were contrary to the interests of justice. They further seek declarations that the college erred in law because its appeals committee failed to take relevant considerations into account and took irrelevant considerations into account when it arrived at its decision to expel the three applicants. Advertisement The cases came before Ms Justice Niamh Hyland on Monday, who in each case granted the applicants permission to bring their challenges. Permission was granted on an ex-parte basis. The cases will return before the courts in October, when the new legal term commences. Apple revealed that a tentative collective bargaining contract with its Maryland store is now in place after negotiating with the union. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers' Coalition of Organized Retail Employees shared the agreed terms that will impact its employees. Read Also : Maryland Passes 'Strongest' Child Data Privacy Laws in the Nation Apple Reach Tentative Contract With First Unionized Retail Store According to the union's representative, the contract states that it will increase pay by an average of 10% along with other worker benefits in a three-year deal. The agreement must be approved by around 85 employees of the store on August 6. "By reaching a tentative agreement with Apple, we are giving our members a voice in their futures and a strong first step toward further gains," the union wrote in a statement. The negotiating committee also hinted that it is working to strike the same deal with other stores as well. The Maryland store is the first Apple retail store to officially unionize. The employees voted upon it last June 2022. The Oklahoma store, which followed suit, has yet to secure a contract with the tech giant. Maryland Apple Store Sees Result of Earlier Strike Last May, the employees of Maryland authorized a first strike against Apple's retail policy. The union stated that it was due to the lack of satisfactory outcomes from over a year of negotiations with the company. The employees stuck by their rights against the "unpredictable" scheduling practices and low wages that did not align with the local cost of living. The union members managed to pursue the strike by handling information packets that detailed the purpose of it. Apple's previous statement extended support to its team members and proper engagement with the union. The tentative bargaining contract would be the first positive result from the first-ever union strike. A woman who stabbed her on-off partner to death, claiming that had she not picked up a chefs knife to defend herself, she would have been battered, has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in jail. At the Central Criminal Court on Monday, Ms Justice Caroline Biggs said Sandra Sandaraites relationship with Zbigniew Czech had been a toxic one, with alcohol a factor that made it volatile and violent. Advertisement Sandaraite, with an address at Academy Street, Navan, Co Meath, had originally been charged with the murder of Mr Czech at the same address on December 10th, 2022. However, her plea to manslaughter with the use of excessive force in self-defence was accepted by the State in March. Gardai found Mr Czech covered in blood on a stairwell at the apartment block on Academy Street after Sandaraite informed emergency services that she had discovered his body. Sandaraite had initially denied any involvement in his death and further denied knowing who he was, despite being in an on-and-off relationship with Mr Czech for years. Ms Justice Biggs identified nine years imprisonment as a pre-mitigation headline for the charge of manslaughter. Advertisement Ms Justice Biggs said she would discount three years of that sentence for Sandaraites early plea and her personal circumstances and then suspended the final six months for two years to encourage her rehabilitation. The sentence was backdated to December 2022, when Sandaraite was first taken into custody. Broken bones During the sentence hearing last week, the court heard that the relationship with Mr Czech (47) was framed by "excessive consumption of alcohol" and that Sandaraite (39) had presented in hospital with "broken bones" and had been punched several times. During her first interview with gardai, Sandaraite said that Mr Czechs death meant there was one less motherf***er in the world not around to ruin some young girls life [Sic] and described the knife she used as beautiful. Sandaraite initially told gardai that she had lost her job and family because of Mr Czech and that she had "no tears". "I feel free now," she told officers. Advertisement In jailing Sandaraite on Monday, Ms Justice Biggs said that the three-year on-off relationship between the pair had given rise to 24 complaints to gardai, from both sides, of violent acts. Ms Justice Biggs said Sandaraite told gardai that there was blood on her fingernails on the night because she had checked Mr Czechs pulse while he lay on the stairwell. She said Sandaraite had claimed that Mr Czech became violent after drinking vodka and began pushing and grabbing her. Sandaraite said she took the knife to intimidate Mr Czech before stabbing him. Ms Justice Biggs said the knife was found in the deceaseds hand and that no coherent explanation had been offered by Sandaraite for this. Advertisement The judge said a fatal stab wound had been sustained by Mr Czech on his upper left lung caused by a chefs knife taken from a closed box in the apartment. Watermarks Ms Justice Biggs said kickboards in the kitchen of the apartment had been wiped clean and that wipes and Mr Czechs jacket had been thrown out of an apartment window. The judge noted that watermarks were also found on the knife. Ms Justice Biggs noted that despite protection and safety orders being secured by Sandaraite against Mr Czech, both would frequently meet up to drink, in what the judge said was a toxic situation. Sandaraite said she thought she was going to be beaten up and had been in hospital many times and felt she would be dead if she did not defend herself, said Ms Justice Biggs. Advertisement Ms Justice Biggs said the history of domestic abuse suffered by Sandaraite must have informed her mind when she took the knife from the box. Ms Justice Biggs said that, as a chef, Sandaraite must have had a professional knowledge of knives and that she chose the knife used in the killing over other smaller knives available at the kitchen area of the apartment. The judge said Sandaraite had introduced a lethal weapon to the incident in self-preservation and self-interest, when reacting to Mr Czechs actions in the context of his physical abuse. Ms Justice Biggs said Sandaraite claimed she truly understands the pain she caused to the family and friends of Mr Czech, which weighs heavily on her mind. The judge noted Sandaraites low risk of reoffending, the early guilty plea, her remorse, good work history, lack of previous convictions and that she was doing exceptionally well in prison. 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) or Mens Aid Ireland (confidential helpline at 01-554 3811, email hello@mensaid.ie) for support and information. Safe Ireland also offers a number of local services and helplines at safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/. In the case of an emergency, always dial 999/11 Actress Alyssa Milano has said Russia has no morals after hearing the stories of Ukrainian medical workers who were unable to save children after their hospital was hit by a missile. The Charmed star was chatting with workers from the Okhmatdyt Childrens Hospital, which was hit by a Russian cruise missile, while children were being treated. Advertisement The hospitals general director, Volodymyr Zhovnir, told Milanos Sorry Not Sorry podcast, he had been forced to tell parents he couldnt do anything to save their children due to the missile. Alyssa Milano has recently joined United24 as an ambassador (United24/PA) The podcast had been organised as part of a fundraiser to rebuild the hospital, bring run by United24, which Milano has recently become an ambassador for. Advertisement After hearing the stories, Milano said: Imagine doing that work in the middle of a war zone, where your country has been illegally invaded by an authoritarian with a huge army and no morals. Imagine worrying not only about whether or not treatment will save this child, but whether or not you will die, simply because youre doing your job in a place that has no business being so dangerous. Milano is best known for playing Phoebe Halliwell in the supernatural TV series Charmed, she also starred in the US soap Melrose Place, The Blue Hour, and Little Sister. She is also known for being a keen activist since the 1980s, raising awareness of women and children with Aids, natural disasters, and the MeToo movement, as well as other causes. Advertisement Mr Zhovnir told the 51-year-old that electricity and water being turned off during the war had also put increased pressure on doctors work. He said: Treating children is a huge responsibility, and during the war, it is much bigger, as there are many moments that you have no control over, the turning off of electricity, water, or other critical systems for the patient. And these are all trifles compared to missile attacks on Ukrainian hospitals. For me, the worst thing is to tell the parents that I, as a doctor, couldnt do anything, and the child died. Advertisement When there is war, the risk of saying that I couldnt save the child because a missile hit the hospital increases by a million times. Anna Isaeva, who works in the hospitals paediatric intensive care unit, echoed his comments, and said workers were forced to use their own bodies as human shields during the attack. She said: We were near the children, covering them with pillows and blankets so that they would not be injured by debris. When we heard the explosions, the staff shielded the children with their own bodies. They were not hurt. Advertisement One of the hospitals surgeons, Ihor Kolodka, added that medics were blown across the room while operating on a five-year-old child. He said: We were in the operating room and started the surgery before the air raid alert started. Unfortunately, we couldnt take the child from the operating table. We had to complete the surgery. This child was five months old. Milanos podcast is to be released in the coming days, and a fundraiser, set up by the United24 group she supports, for the Okhmatdyt hospital has since raised seven million US dollars to help rebuild it. Top diplomats from Japan, the US, Australia and India have compiled a set of measures to reinforce maritime safety and cybersecurity and to support other Asia-Pacific countries in improving their defences during growing tensions in the regional seas. After the meeting in Tokyo, Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa, US secretary of state Antony Blinken, Australian foreign minister Penny Wong and Indian external affairs minister Subrahmayam Jaishankar said they were seriously concerned about the tensions and expressed strong opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo by coercion. Advertisement They noted the militarisation of disputed features, and coercive and intimidating manoeuvres in the South China Sea as examples, but carefully avoided identifying China in their joint statement. Several regional governments dispute Chinas sweeping territorial claims over the South China Sea, which has crucial maritime trade routes and potential energy reserves. It also claims self-governing Taiwan as its territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. Today, @SecDef Austin and I met with Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa and Defense Minister Kihara. We reaffirmed the United States commitment to deepen defense industry and technology cooperation and discussed ways to implement strategic initiatives for our important Alliance. pic.twitter.com/78pL4YlfUG Advertisement Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) July 28, 2024 At what are known as the Quad talks, the four ministers agreed on a number of initiatives to counter cyber attacks, ensure maritime security and deal with disinformation. Advertisement They also announced expanded support for other countries, including in south-east Asia and Pacific islands, to bolster their abilities in those areas as the Quad seek to expand its partnerships. The ministers plan to launch a maritime legal dialogue to focus on the international law of the sea. They said they were determined to contribute to maintaining and developing free-and-open maritime order consistent with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea in the Indian and the Pacific Oceans and to enhance cooperation and coordination on it. Their initiatives included support for installing a secure telecommunications network in Palau and building cybersecurity capacity in the Philippines and India, according to the joint statement. Advertisement The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to improving the regions connectivity through the development of resilient infrastructure such as undersea cables. The ministers did not explicitly mention China (AP) Mr Blinken told a joint news conference: We are committed to putting our collective resources, our collective strength to work to benefit people across the region that we share. Advertisement We continue to work with partners to ensure that freedom of navigation, overflight, the unimpeded flow of lawful maritime commerce that these continue to go forward. They are critical to the regions security. Theyre critical to its ongoing prosperity. Ms Kamikawa said maritime security in the region is increasingly unstable, so unity and cooperation were needed more than ever among the Quad countries in securing a rules-based free and open international order. Without naming China, talks host Ms Kamikawa said escalating tensions in a certain region and cyber attacks by a certain country could easily spill to other countries and increase their risks. Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa hosted the talks (AP) In order to have the prosperity in the region, we must ensure stability of the foundation in maritime, cyber and space domains, she said. We Quad nations aim to protect the foundations of prosperity in the Indo-Pacific as we seek to achieve an international community of coexistence and coprosperity. Australias Ms Wong said the Quad nations were working to achieve a region that is governed by accepted rules and norms where all of us can cooperate, can trade and thrive and where sovereignty is respected and competition is managed responsibly. The talks came after Japan and the United States held their 2+2 security meeting on Sunday, when they called China the greatest strategic challenge. They agreed on further deepening military cooperation by making major upgrades to their command structures and bolstering Japanese production and repair of US-licensed weapons. Irans supreme leader has formally endorsed Masoud Pezeshkian as president, allowing the reformist politician and heart surgeon to take charge of a country weakened by economic sanctions over its nuclear programme. During an endorsement ceremony, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Mr Pezeshkian to prioritise neighbours, African and Asian nations, as well as countries that have supported and helped Iran in Tehrans foreign relations policies. Advertisement The Ayatollah criticised European nations for behaving badly to us by adopting sanctions, and an oil embargo and for calling out alleged human rights abuses. He also condemned Israel for its actions in Gaza in the deaths of children, women and hospitalised people who did not shoot a single bullet against Israeli forces. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks after giving his official seal of approval to President Masoud Pezeshkian In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader (Office of the Supreme Leader/AP) Advertisement The Zionist regime is showing its ugliest face as a war criminal, said Mr Khamenei, accusing Israel of setting a new record in assassinations and cruelty. He also denounced the US Congress for allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the legislative body. Speaking at the same ceremony, Mr Pezeshkian paid homage to General Qassem Soleimani, the architect of Irans regional military activities, who was killed in a US drone attack in 2020. He reiterated his promise to pursue a constructive and efficient foreign policy, bolster the rule of law offer equal opportunities to citizens, support families and protect the environment. In his first official act in office, Mr Pezeshkian appointed Mohammad Reza Aref, 72, as his first vice president. Mr Aref, who is considered a moderate reformist, held the post between 2001-2005 under former president Mohammad Khatami and holds a doctorate in engineering from Stanford University. Advertisement Mr Pezeshkian takes over from Ebrahim Raisi, whose death in a May helicopter crash sparked the early election. Irans President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian prays next to a portrait of the late President Ebrahim Raisi (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/AP) He will take the oath of office in parliament on Tuesday and will have two weeks to form his cabinet for a vote of confidence in parliament. Advertisement The new Iranian president pledged in his election campaign that he would make no radical changes to Irans Shiite theocracy, embracing the supreme leader as the final arbiter in all matters of state. Mr Pezeshkian has tried to walk the line between hard-liners and reformists with whom he has identified. He has repeatedly criticised the US while praising Irans powerful paramilitary Revolutionary Guard for shooting down a US drone in 2019 which he called a strong punch in the mount of the Americans. Among the pressing challenges he faces is the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip and Western fears over enriching uranium to near-weapons-grade levels with enough of a stockpile to produce several nuclear weapons if it chose. Advertisement In April, Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel over the war in Gaza, while militia groups armed by Tehran including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Yemens Houthi rebels have stepped up their own attacks. Iran has held indirect talks with US President Joe Bidens administration over its nuclear programme, but there has been no progress in lifting tough economic sanctions against Tehran. President Nicolas Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuelas presidential election, even as his opponents were preparing to dispute the results. The dispute sets up a high-stakes showdown that will determine whether the South American nation transitions away from one-party rule. Advertisement Elvis Amoroso, head of the National Electoral Council, said Mr Maduro secured 51% of the vote, overcoming opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, who garnered 44%. He said the results were based on 80% of voting stations, marking an irreversible trend. It came as opposition leaders were celebrating, online and outside a few voting centres, what they saw as a landslide victory for Mr Gonzalez. Supporters of opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez gather outside the Andres Bello School voting centre in Caracas, Venezuela (Cristian Hernandez/AP) Advertisement Their hope was boosted by exit polls which are not allowed under Venezuelan law showing a healthy margin of victory for Mr Gonzalez. The delay in announcing results six hours after polls were supposed to close indicated a deep debate inside the government about how to proceed after Mr Maduros opponents came out early in the evening all but claiming victory. The electoral authority, which is controlled by Maduro loyalists, has yet to release the official voting tallies from each of the 30,000 polling centres, hampering the oppositions ability to verify the results. Opposition representatives said tallies they collected from campaign representatives at 30% of voting centres showed Mr Gonzalez trouncing the president. Advertisement The head of the electoral council said it would release the official voting acts in the coming hours. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States has serious concerns about the announced result. Its critical that every vote be counted fairly and transparently that the electoral authorities immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay and that the electoral authorities publish the tabulation of votes, he said. Chilen President Gabriel Boric described the results as difficult to believe. Advertisement Mr Maduro seeking a third term, faced his toughest challenge yet from the unlikeliest of opponents a retired diplomat who was unknown to voters before becoming a last-minute stand-in for opposition powerhouse Maria Corina Machado, who was blocked by the Maduro-controlled supreme court from running for any office for 15 years in April. After voting, Mr Maduro said he would recognise the election result and urged all other candidates to publicly declare that they would do the same. No one is going to create chaos in Venezuela, he said. I recognise and will recognise the electoral referee, the official announcements and I will make sure they are recognised. Voters started lining up at some voting centres across the country before dawn Sunday, sharing water, coffee and snacks for several hours. A prison officer has pleaded guilty to misconduct after having sex with an inmate in a cell. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, south-west London, was charged after a video of the activity was shared on social media. Advertisement Linda De Sousa Abreu appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates Court earlier this month (Elizabeth Cook/PA) A police investigation was launched after officers were made aware of a video filmed inside HMP Wandsworth in south London. De Sousa Abreu was arrested and charged with misconduct in public office. Advertisement She wore a light-coloured suit and brown top for the short hearing at Isleworth Crown Court in west London. The charge states that De Sousa Abreu wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted yourself in a way which amounted to an abuse of the publics trust in the office holder by engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell. It happened at Wandsworth between June 26th-28th. The mother was arrested at Heathrow Airport and was due to catch a flight to Madrid having notified the prison of her travel plans. Advertisement De Sousa Abreu, who holds a Portuguese passport, was granted conditional bail, and will next appear at Isleworth Crown Court on November 7th. Tetteh Turkson, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: This was a shocking breach of the publics trust. De Sousa was clearly an enthusiastic participant who wrongly thought she would avoid responsibility. The CPS recognises there is no excuse for any prison officer who conducts themselves in such a manner, and we will never hesitate to prosecute those who abuse their position of power. After working closely with the Metropolitan Police to build the strongest possible case, De Sousa had no option but accept she was guilty. She will now rightly face the consequences of her actions. Two children have died and six are in a critical condition following a horror movie knife attack close to a Taylor Swift-themed yoga class. Merseyside Police said a 17-year-old boy, from the village of Banks and born in Cardiff, was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder following the major incident at a property in Hart Street, Southport, north of Liverpool, at about 11.50am on Monday. Advertisement Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said as well as the two children who died, nine children were injured in the ferocious attack and two adults are also in a critical condition. Here is what we know so far: What happened? Police were called to reports of a stabbing at 11.47am on Monday morning at an address in Southport. Advertisement Ms Kennedy said officers found multiple people, many of whom were children, had been subjected to a ferocious attack and had suffered serious injuries. She added the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked. Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy speaking to the media (James Speakman/PA) Advertisement It is understood the children were attending a Taylor Swift event at a dance school when the offender, armed with a knife, walked into the premises and started to attack children inside. One witness told the PA news agency that he called the police to an address behind The Hart Space studios, where a Taylor Swift-themed yoga class for children in school years two to six, aged between six and 11, was taking place. Others described hearing screaming and seeing bleeding children running from the scene. Colin Parry, owner of Masters Vehicle Body Repairs, said he believed that six or seven young girls had been stabbed. Advertisement He went on: The mothers are coming here now and screaming. It is like a scene from a horror movie. Mr Parry added: Police have got him. Its like something from America, not like sunny Southport. Advertisement A large police cordon was put up around the building in Hart Road, with police officers guarding either end. Officers and vehicles could be seen from a distance inside the cordon, including scenes-of-crime officers in white boiler suits. Ms Kennedy said the motivation for the attack is unclear but it is currently not being treated as terror-related. Where and when did it happen? Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Hart Street, Southport, at around 11.47am on Monday. Southport is in the north-west, around 10 miles north of Liverpool. North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said victims were taken to Alder Hey Childrens Hospital, Aintree University Hospital and Southport and Formby hospital. Alder Hey declared a major incident and asked parents not to bring their children to the emergency department unless it was urgent. What do we know about the attacker? Merseyside Police confirmed that armed police had detained a male and seized a knife following the incident. The force later said a 17-year-old boy from Banks, a Lancashire village to the north of Southport, who was born in Cardiff, was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Emergency services near the scene (James Speakman/PA) He will be questioned about the incident, and police said they are working to establish the motive for the attack. Police confirmed that the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and said no one else is being sought in connection with it. What do we know about the victims? North West Ambulance Service Cheshire and Merseyside head of service Dave Kitchin told a press conference 11 casualties were treated at what he described as a devastating scene. Two children died in the attack and nine were injured. Six of those are in a critical condition. Two adults are also in a critical condition. The victims have not yet been named. What has been said? Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla had been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today. Charles added: We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and love ones of those who have so tragically lose their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack. The Prince and Princess of Wales said: As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through. We send our love, thoughts and prayers to all those involved in this horrid and heinous attack. Thank you also to the emergency responders who, despite being met with the most horrific scenes, demonstrated compassion and professionalism when your community needed you most. Following the press conference, the UK prime minister offered his condolences to the victims of the attack in Southport, and their families and friends, saying the whole country is deeply shocked. UK home secretary Yvette Cooper said earlier: The news from Southport is truly devastating. My heart goes out to all the families affected by this horrific incident & to the whole community. I have just spoken to the Merseyside Chief Constable & I thank all the emergency services responding in such difficult circumstances. MP for Southport Patrick Hurley posted a statement on X: My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families of the horrific attack on Hart Street today. I am deeply saddened by the news that two children have been fatally injured. I hope for the swift and full recovery of all the other victims of this senseless attack and I thank the staff at Alder Hey Childrens Hospital, Southport and Formby Hospital, and Aintree University Hospital for their care for those affected. Former US president Donald Trump has agreed to be interviewed by the FBI as part of an investigation into his attempted assassination in Pennsylvania earlier this month, officials have said. The expected interview with the 2024 Republican presidential nominee is part of the FBIs standard protocol to speak with victims of federal crimes during the course of their investigations. Advertisement The FBI said on Friday that Mr Trump was struck by a bullet or a fragment of one during the July 13 assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally (Alex Brandon/AP) We want to get his perspective on what he observed, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said on Monday. Advertisement Through roughly 450 interviews, the FBI has fleshed out a portrait of the gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, that reveals him to be a highly intelligent but reclusive 20-year-old whose primary social circle was his family and who maintained few friends and acquaintances throughout his life. The FBI has not uncovered a motive as to why he chose to target Mr Trump, but investigators believe the shooting was the result of extensive planning, including the purchase in recent months of chemical precursors that investigators believe were used to create explosive devices found in his car and his home and the use of a drone about 200 yards from the rally site in the hours before the event. In addition, Mr Rojek said, Crooks looked online for information about mass shootings, improvised explosive devices, power plants and the attempted assassination in May of Slovakias populist Prime Minister Robert Fico. The FBI has said that on July 6, the day Crooks registered to attend the Trump rally, he googled: How far away was Oswald from Kennedy? in a reference to Lee Harvey Oswald, the shooter who killed President John F Kennedy from a snipers perch in Dallas on November 22, 1963. Advertisement Crooks parents have been extremely cooperative with investigators, Mr Rojek said, and the extensive planning that preceded the shooting was done online. Mike Kelly will lead a House task force charged with investigating the assassination attempt against former president Donald Trump (J. Scott Applewhite/AP) The parents have said they had no knowledge of Crooks plans, and investigators have no reason to doubt that, the FBI added. Advertisement Republican Mike Kelly of Pennsylvania witnessed the assassination attempt against Mr Trump first-hand and will lead the House task force charged with investigating what went wrong and recommending solutions to help ensure such an attack does not happen again. Mr Kelly represents the city of Butler, where the July 13 attack occurred. He attended Mr Trumps campaign rally and sponsored the legislation to create the task force, saying his community was grieving and that the people of Butler and the people of the United States deserve answers. Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York jointly announced on Monday that 13 legislators, seven Republicans and six Democrats with backgrounds in law enforcement, legal affairs and the military, had been appointed to the task force. Advertisement It will issue a final report before December 13. We have the utmost confidence in this bipartisan group of steady, highly qualified, and capable members of Congress to move quickly to find the facts, ensure accountability, and help make certain such failures never happen again, Mr Johnson and Mr Jeffries said in their statement. The Collingsworth Family - "Classics & Hymns" | The Press House NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 26, 2024) The Collingsworth Family releases their new album, Classics & Hymns, today on Gaither Music. This 14-song collection breathes new life into beloved hymns and gospel classics, showcasing the seamless harmonies and lush scores that the group has featured on prestigious stages worldwide. A DVD companion, filmed at Nashvilles esteemed Fisher Center, is also available today, featuring stirring performances that bring the album's tracks to life on stage. Classics & Hymns includes standout tracks like Sweeter As the Days Go By, which landed in the 18th spot on the New Music Friday Christian playlist on Spotify and has been featured on Amazons Highly Favored playlist, and Jesus Is All the World to Me. The familys rendition of the standard Praise the Lord encapsulates the spirit and musical excellence that defines The Collingsworth Familys ministry. Since their first engagement together as musicians for a church camp in Petersburg, Michigan, in August 1986, the ministry of Phil & Kim Collingsworth has expanded and flourished into a full-time livelihood that involves their entire family. They have sung and played all over the United States and internationally, now celebrating their 33rd year of ministry. Their constant, persistent attention to cutting-edge arrangements, musical excellence and a proper balance of spiritual emphasis are the keys to their success. "The release of Classics & Hymns is the culmination of nearly two years of intense work, stated group founder and member Phil Collingsworth. Countless hours were logged by the group selecting, rehearsing and recording vocals; Kim and Bradley Knight poured over the arrangements; their Nashville recording band cut the tracks with flourish; members of the Nashville String Machine recorded the lush orchestrations; then Bradley, Kim, Phillip Jr and Ronnie Brookshire labored hour upon hour, meticulously mixing and finessing the final product. After the sparkle was added by John Mayfield Mastering, a masterpiece emerged that is an Ebenezer for these classic writers and the incredible literature they have gifted our world in the form of these timeless songs. We did not want another generation to pass without them hearing these treasures again!" A TV special surrounding the project will air on various networks this weekend and throughout late summer and fall, including RFD-TV, TBN, Heartland, CTN, TCT, The Walk TV, Vision Television & Hope TV (Canada) and The Miracle Channel (Canada). A YouTube premiere of the filming will debut on the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel (and its over three million subscribers) on August 2, and songs from the DVD will be featured on Apple Music, the Gaither YouTube channel and the Gaither Facebook page (and its over two million subscribers). The full-length video will be available on demand on the GaitherTV+ platform, an ad-free subscription streaming service that is part of UP Faith & Family. The Classics & Hymns DVD is available at Amazon, Christianbook.com, Parable.com and other retailers. Track Listing: We'll Understand It Better By and By / Heaven's Jubilee Jesus You're The Center of My Joy Arise My Soul Arise God On The Mountain Sweeter As The Days Go By Precious Blood / The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power I Bless Your Name Sing Your Praise To The Lord His Strength Is Perfect I'm Gonna Keep On Singing I Am Not Ashamed Jesus Is All The World To Me Jesus Is The Answer Praise The Lord About Gaither Music Group: One of the largest independent Christian music companies in the world and a household name for millions of fans, Gaither Music Group (part of Sun Label Group, which encompasses Gaither Music, Sun Records, Green Hill, emeraldwave by Green Hill, and Rural Rhythm), in partnership with Primary Wave Music Publishing, is known worldwide for its award-winning and top-selling recordings, including the Gaither Gospel Series, of which 133 products have been certified gold, platinum, or multi-platinum. These recordings, which encompass more than 200 video copyrights, showcase gospel music pioneers; many of the finest performers in the gospel and country genres; up-and-coming acts; and country artists including The Oak Ridge Boys, Jimmy Fortune, Joey+Rory, Alabama, Alan Jackson, The Statler Brothers, George Jones, Vince Gill, Josh Turner, Tennessee Ernie Ford, The Isaacs, and others. The Gaither Music Group brand has partnered with established artists including Whitney Houston, Sandi Patty, Gloria Gaynor, Steven Curtis Chapman, and a host of acclaimed talent from various fields of music. Gaither Music Group has garnered sales of more than 40 million DVDs and CDs, including such PBS stalwarts as Billy Graham: Gods Ambassador, the only authorized video autobiography of Reverend Billy Graham; The Gospel Music of Johnny Cash; and three Elvis Presley projects, including He Touched Me and The Gospel Music of Elvis Presley, in conjunction with the Elvis Presley Estate. Gaither Music Group developed a strategic partnership with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in 2008; and its alliances with Capitol Christian Music Group, Virgin Music Label & Artist Services, Universal Music Group, and Time Life Music remain bedrocks for the company. Most recently, the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel crossed the 3 Billion life-to-date streaming benchmark and hosts more than 3 Million subscribers. Uche Agu & Revival Today Worship - The Whole Earth Will See (A.K.A. America Will See) | DREAM Label Group Los Angeles, CA (July 26th, 2024) Uche Agu and Revival Today Worship release their seventh single from their upcoming album Celebrate The King today titled The Whole Earth Will See (A.K.A. America Will See). The ballad was co-written by Uche Agu, Daniel Johnson, Brandon Tolbert Jones The Whole Earth Will See (A.K.A. America Will See) was recorded and produced live at Revival Today Church in Pittsburgh, PA by Uche Agu, Danny Duncan and Brandon Tolbert. It is available everywhere music is sold and streamed digitally. Listen or Buy The Whole Earth Will See (A.K.A. America Will See) here Doom scrolling is a popular term that refers to the endless swiping through your newsfeeds without realizing you have been spending too much time on it. The digital age makes it more easy to find ourselves in this trap, wasting precious time that could have been used on other activities. While keeping your communication line open through social media, it is also vital to acknowledge that consuming a constant stream of information can take a toll on your mental health. Some posts could also trigger our anxiety and stress about our lives. Feeling stressed about your doom scrolling habits? Here are some effective ways that will help you reduce your screen time and gradually improve your well-being: Read Also : Upgrade Your Everyday Routine with These 5 Weird but Innovative Gadgets Set Boundaries The first step to do is to start limiting your activities. This could be done gradually as sudden changes could only lead to burnout and shock to your habits. You can try allocating specific times to check the news or your phone. For students, it is better to stay off the phone during class hours to ensure that you are not distracted. You can reward yourself with a specific time to catch up on social media after class hours but do not forget to set a reminder to stop for your homework. For professionals and other individuals, there are specific apps that can be used to set limits for social media. You can also put your device on Do Not Disturb to prevent any notifications from bothering you. Engage in Positive Activities Create a life outside of social media as there are various activities that you can accomplish. Spend your free time on your hobbies or new activities that you have been interested in for a while. If you are on a budget, going for a 30-minute to an hour of running around your neighborhood is scientifically proven to boost your energy. Other activities like reading, cooking, and gaming are also good alternatives. While it is important to have alone time, you must also connect with your friends and families by communicating with them face-to-face. Develop a Routine A study revealed that people need to repeat an activity for an average of 66 days before it becomes a habit. Structure your free time with a balance of activities that you are interested in. Having a routine can reduce the likelihood of falling into the dangers of doom scrolling on your social media. You can also make it a motivation for yourself to accomplish new tasks every once in a while. Get Some Sunshine Sunlight is a scientifically proven energy booster, allowing the increase of serotonin in the brain. A good bask in the sun can help keep you calm, positive, and focused on your well-being. Students and professionals are often stuck inside a building. Employees who work from home often complain about their energy levels due to their lack of exposure to the sun. A good soak in the sun could help boost the mood, especially when you need it the most. Make sure to keep protected with sunscreen and to only go out when it is not too hot. Ive been known to splodge mascara on the mirrored visor in my car (applying it while stationary, of course!), not to mention getting foundation all over my collars and smudging lipstick on other peoples. Luckily, knowing how to get make-up out of clothes helps dissolve the panic of thinking youve ruined a favourite shirt forever. Phew! Simple soap and water might be enough to get rid of stains. Credit: ISTOCK The first thing to do is to read the garments care label to ascertain what sort of fabric youre dealing with. If youre nervous about the fabric or the stain, head straight to the dry cleaner. As always, prevention is better than cure. An artists smock might be taking things too far, but wearing a big bib while applying make-up isnt a bad idea. Alternatively, apply your make-up before you get dressed (this is great if youre wearing button-up or zip-up clothes, not so good for turtlenecks!). Once make-up is in place, apply a setting spray such as Hourglass Veil Soft Focus Setting Spray ($83). Powder make-up is the easiest to remove, as you can usually just brush it off your clothes. If its mascara or eyeliner gel, try scraping it with a clean spoolie, but remember it needs to be completely dry before you attempt this. Fremantle will challenge Nat Fyfes one-match suspension in a bid to free the two-time Brownlow medallist for Sundays crunch AFL clash with Essendon at the MCG. Fyfe was charged with striking after collecting Eagles midfielder Jai Culley in the face with his right forearm in an attempted block that happened 40m off the ball. Nat Fyfe. Credit: Getty Images The incident was classified as intentional conduct, low impact and high contact, drawing a one-match suspension. Fremantle (12-6-1) sit third on the ladder, just percentage adrift of second-placed Brisbane with four rounds remaining. The federal government has advised Australians not to travel to Lebanon and warned those in the country should leave immediately while commercial flights are still available as Opposition Leader Peter Dutton left on an official visit to Israel. Australia, along with the United States, UK, France and Germany have issued warnings to their citizens travelling in the region as tensions escalate between terrorist group Hezbollah and Israel over a rocket attack on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that struck a soccer field killing 12 children and teens. A woman from the Druze minority weeps near the site where 12 children and teens were killed in a rocket strike on a soccer field. Credit: AP Flights in and out of Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, Lebanons only airport, were cancelled and delayed on Monday. The airport has been targeted in the countrys civil war, and previous fighting with Israel, including in the last war between Hezbollah and Israel in 2006. We continue to advise that Australians do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further, advice on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website Smartraveller said. Jerusalem: Israel wants to hurt Hezbollah but does not want to drag the region into an all-out war, a senior Israeli defence official said, while two other officials said the country was preparing for the possibility of a few days of fighting. The officials spoke as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened security assessments and his security cabinet, a day after a strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights killed 12 children and teenagers. Mourners attend a funeral for ten of the victims of the rocket attack in Majdal Shams, Golan Heights. Credit: Getty Images As tensions escalated between Israel and the terrorist group Hezbollah following the deadly rocket strike, flights in and out of Beirut airport were cancelled and delayed. Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is Lebanons only airport. It has been targeted in the countrys civil war, and previous fighting with Israel, including in the last war between Hezbollah and Israel in 2006. Israels security cabinet authorised Netanyahus government to decide on the manner and timing of a response to the Golan Heights attack, which Israel and the United States blamed on the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. We believe open banking is the safest way for you (brokers) to be able to work with your clients in terms of them sharing data with you and sharing that with lenders to enable a smooth transaction process, said Blethyn at the conference. Marvel's casting choice for its third live-adaptation take on the villainous Doctor Doom is causing a stir among fans as many people accused the decision of being "lazy" and another "cash grab" move. Far from the applauses during the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con, Marvel's choice to cast Robet Downey Jr., who was previously cast as Iron Man, was not as well received on online spaces. Many criticisms pointed at the decision claimed that the MCU has been reduced to "cash grabs and nostalgia with no sense of creativity" to revamp the franchise. i don't even have words but the way the mcu has completely reduced itself to cashgrabs and nostalgia with no sense of creativity has to be studied https://t.co/4PoY15WwSn #1 dc hawks expert (@HAWKGIRLS) July 28, 2024 Another popular argument surrounds Marvel's choice to not cast a Romani actor for Doctor Doom, an aspect many fans claim plays an important part in the villain's motivations. If you think Doom being Romani isn't important to his character or his backstory then I highly recommend that you check out Books of Doom pic.twitter.com/hVMtWnN8E5 Simmon (@simmon_c3) July 28, 2024 RDJ Replaces Jonathan Majors for Marvel's Next Big Bad Others see the return of the popular Iron Man actor as a hasty decision from Marvel after the lukewarm reception of Kang the Conqueror, Marvel's planned Big Bad for its Phase 6 schedule. It did not help that Kang's actor, Jonathan Majors, is currently embroiled in legal controversies amid reports of several domestic violence charges. Despite the negative reaction, the casting reveal is currently among Instagram's Top 15 most-viewed videos with 212 million views and 10.4 million likes. It is uncertain which movie in the MCU timeline Downey's Doctor Doom will first appear, although Marvel already confirmed that he will be the central antagonist for "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars," with "Avengers: Infinity War" saga directors, the Russo brothers, leading the production. Marvel Struggles to Meet Fan Demands Post-'Endgame' The recent casting choice backlash was not the first time Marvel faced open criticisms about its production choices after completing its Phase 4 schedule with the "Avengers: Endgame." Many fans still consider "Endgame" as the end of the franchise after Marvel's several failed attempts to regain people's attention back to the MCU. So far, the franchise plans to do that with its approach to multiverse and variant to build up for its next "Avengers" film. Democratic vice presidential candidate Senator Kamala Harris speaks at a campaign event in Wilmington, Delaware. (Photo: REUTERS/Carlos Barria) Kamala Harris's presidential campaign has reported a remarkable fundraising achievement, raising $200 million and signing up 170,000 new volunteers within a week of her becoming the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. This surge comes as Republicans intensify their criticisms of Harris's tenure as vice president. President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid last Sunday, endorsing Harris for the upcoming November election against former President Donald Trump. "In the week since we got started, @KamalaHarris has raised $200 million dollars. 66% of that is from new donors. We've signed up 170,000 new volunteers," Rob Flaherty, Harris's deputy campaign manager, announced on X. Recent polls, including one by Reuters/Ipsos, indicate a tight race between Harris and Trump, setting the stage for a closely contested election with just 100 days remaining. Trump's campaign, which raised $331 million in the second quarter, reported having $284.9 million in cash on hand at the end of June, compared to the Democratic campaign's $240 million. Harris has garnered the support of the majority of delegates to the Democratic National Convention, ensuring her nomination as the party's presidential candidate. "Our vice president is the presumptive nominee. We will have the official vote on August 1," Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison told MSNBC. Biden's withdrawal followed questions about his age and health after a poor debate performance against Trump in late June. He pledged to serve out his term until January 20, 2025. Harris's entry into the race has revitalized a campaign that struggled with doubts about Biden's ability to defeat Trump or continue to govern effectively. Polls had shown Trump leading Biden, especially in battleground states, after Biden's debate debacle. However, Harris's candidacy has shifted the dynamics. A New York Times/Siena College poll published Thursday showed Harris narrowing what had been a significant lead for Trump, while a Wall Street Journal poll found Trump ahead by two percentage points. A Reuters/Ipsos poll published on July 23 indicated a two-point lead for Harris. Republican attacks on Harris, the first woman and the first Black and South Asian person to serve as U.S. vice president, have intensified since she became the likely Democratic nominee. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who endorsed Trump after his own unsuccessful bid for the Republican nomination, called Harris "incredibly vapid" on Fox News and predicted Democrats would "whitewash" her background to distance her from the Biden administration's policies. DeSantis's comments have sparked concern among some Trump allies, particularly members of the "Black Americans for Trump" coalition, who warn that disparaging Harris could alienate Black voters, a crucial demographic in the upcoming election. Harris's campaign did not immediately respond to DeSantis's remarks. Mitch Landrieu, a campaign co-chair, described Harris's first week as a candidate as one of the best in politics over the past 50 years. "This is going to be a very close race," he told MSNBC. Trump's fundraising received a boost following his conviction on felony charges related to a hush-money payment to a porn star ahead of the 2016 election. An assassination attempt against Trump earlier this month is also expected to spur campaign contributions. In contrast, Harris's campaign held approximately 2,300 organizing events in battleground states over the weekend, with high-profile Democrats under consideration as her running mate stumping for her. At a fundraiser in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Harris drew hundreds of supporters, raising about $1.4 million, significantly more than the originally expected $400,000. Mandy Robbins, 45, of Decatur, Georgia, attended an organizing event in Atlanta and expressed renewed hope with Harris's candidacy. "I finally feel hopeful now," Robbins said. "We can win this with Harris." Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, have stepped up efforts to frame Harris as a far-left politician. Vance predicted that Harris's initial bump in popularity would soon fade. "The people are going to learn her record," Vance said. "They're going to learn that she's a radical." Harris's focus on abortion rights and other key issues for young voters has energized her campaign. Despite the criticisms, Harris's entrance into the race has given the Democrats a much-needed boost, with a coalition of 17 youth-led groups uniting behind her. The campaign's success in raising funds and volunteers demonstrates significant grassroots support, indicating a potentially transformative impact on the election's outcome. Trump, while continuing his attacks, may need to recalibrate his strategy in response to Harris's rising momentum. Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire suggested that personal attacks on Harris would not drive voters and urged Trump to focus on the issues. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for swift and tighter regulation, warning of "Ponzi schemes" emerging in the cryptocurrency markets. (Photo: REUTERS/Francois Lenoir/File Photo) President Tayyip Erdogan has signaled that Turkey might intervene in Israel to support Palestinians, drawing parallels to Turkish military actions in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. Speaking at a meeting of his ruling AK Party in Rize, Erdogan condemned Israel's offensive in Gaza and suggested that Turkey could take similar steps as it did in previous conflicts. "We must be very strong so that Israel can't do these ridiculous things to Palestine. Just like we entered Karabakh, just like we entered Libya, we might do similar to them," Erdogan stated in his televised address. This rhetoric comes amid a backdrop of escalating violence and political tension in the Gaza conflict. The specifics of Erdogan's potential intervention remain unclear. AK Party representatives did not provide further details, and Israel has yet to respond officially. In the past, Turkey deployed military personnel to Libya in 2020 to support the UN-recognized Government of National Accord and has supported Azerbaijan with military training and equipment in its conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, though it denies direct involvement in military operations. Erdogan's comments have exacerbated tensions with Israel. Following his speech, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz compared Erdogan to former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. "Just let him remember what happened there and how it ended," Katz wrote on X, referencing Hussein's capture by U.S. forces in 2003. In response, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs drew a stark comparison between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Adolf Hitler, stating, "Just as genocidal Hitler ended, so will genocidal Netanyahu." The ministry added, "Humanity will stand by the Palestinians. You will not be able to destroy the Palestinians." Erdogan has been vocally critical of Israel throughout the Gaza conflict, which has now entered its eleventh month. He underscored the need for strength to counter Israel's actions against Palestinians, saying, "We need to be very strong so that Israel cannot do these ridiculous things to Palestine. Just as we entered Karabakh, just as we entered Libya, we can do something similar to them." Turkey's involvement in Libya in 2020 and its support for Azerbaijan in Nagorno-Karabakh have set a precedent for Erdogan's latest threats. In Libya, Turkish forces backed the Tripoli-based government of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, while in Nagorno-Karabakh, Turkey has provided military support to Azerbaijan, including advanced combat drones and other equipment. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan defended Erdogan's stance, describing him as "the voice of humanity's conscience." Fidan claimed that "international Zionist circles, especially Israel, who want to suppress this righteous voice, are in great alarm," and noted that "history ended the same way for all genociders and their supporters." Earlier this year, Turkey restricted some exports to Israel and halted trade entirely in May. In retaliation, Israel indicated it might scrap the free trade agreement with Turkey. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested the agreement could be reinstated under a new Turkish leader who is "sane and not a hater of Israel." Shikwa-E-Hind: The Political Future of Indian Muslims Author: Mujibur Rehman Publisher: Simon & Schuster Pages: 360 Price: Rs 999 Forty years ago, it was mandatory to flag down every public bus several times as it made its way to the Indian capital from one of the northern states, especially if its originating point was anywhere in Punjab or Chandigarh. Police personnel would rush inside and ask all Sikhs (identifiable as men wearing turbans) to get down. They were then questioned where were they coming from, what was the destination and the journeys purpose subjected to a pat-down Power transmission and distribution entity Adani Energy Solutions (AESL) is looking to divest its Dahanu power plant to group entity Adani Power , according to people in the know. The move is in line with past asset sales within group entities. Last week, AESL said the company, honouring its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitment, has decided to divest the Dahanu thermal plant. According to people in the know, AESL is looking to divest the asset to group entity Adani Power. Adani Power, also a listed entity, currently operates a thermal power capacity of 15.25 gigawatts (Gw). An email query sent to the company on Friday had remained unanswered. In its annual report for FY24, Adani Energy mentioned plans to carve out the Dahanu asset in the current financial year. The 500 Mw generation unit is a legacy asset. It was part of the Mumbai power distribution business that Adani Energy acquired from Anil Ambani's Reliance Infrastructure in 2018. Details on valuation or structure of the likely divestment are not yet known. In its June 2024 quarter results, however, Adani Energy said it is taking a one-time impairment of Rs 1,506 crore in relation to the divestment of the asset. If executed, the deal between Adani Power and AESL will be in line with other group entities such as Adani Enterprises and Ambuja Cements. In June, Adani Enterprises said its board had approved a scheme to merge Stratatech Mineral Resources Private Limited (SMRPL), its wholly-owned subsidiary, with Mahan Energen Limited, a wholly-owned unit of Adani Power. The rationale for the move, Adani Enterprises then said, was SMRPL is the allocatee of Dhirauli coal mine and is (currently) part of the commercial mining segment under the Natural Resources (NR) vertical of Adani Enterprises, which is gradually moving towards development and operation of mines (MDO). During the same month, Adani group also announced a merger and ownership restructuring for its cement assets housed under Ambuja Cements and Adani Enterprises. As part of the scheme, Adani Cementation will be merged with Ambuja, while Adani Cement Industries will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ambuja Cements. Apple TV+ is reportedly in talks with the U.K. ratings body to discuss the possibility of bringing ad-supported tiers on its streaming plans. Apple executives have already reached out to the Broadcaster's Audience Research Board (BARB) to talk about the additional data collection for advertising. Apple TV+ With Ad-Supported Tiers Might Come Soon BARB is a huge ratings agency in the U.K. that currently works with other streaming companies like Netflix, Disney, and Amazon. The agency holds the record on Apple TV+'s impact on the audience such as the time spent on the platform. As of writing, nothing has been finalized yet from both BARD and Apple. However, the meetings are a good indication that the tech giant is planning to adopt a new subscription tier for its subscribers. Apple TV+ is currently available for $9.99 per month. The streaming service has already experienced two price hikes from 2022 and 2023. Rumors also suggest that Apple could debut a $4.99 monthly introductory price for its ad-supported tier, similar to its first subscription price in 2019. Streaming Platforms Continue Hikes, Introduce Ads Several streaming companies have been actively working to boost their customer count and revenue by introducing new tiers. For instance, Netflix reported a 34% growth in its ad-supported membership in the recent quarter. Previously, streaming platforms were introduced with different tiers based on the connected devices with no ads in place. However, the new streaming plans are now laced with ad-supported and ad-free tiers, giving customers a cheaper or more expensive way of viewing. Apple TV+ could potentially use its advertising venture to support its plan to acquire more programming outside its own studio. Last week, the company was reportedly in talks with several studios to gain more streaming licenses. The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated that ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, uses a web-suite system that collects information on the user's content including their social views. The department submitted documents to the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit to provide details on the risk of allowing ByteDance to operate in the U.S. Read Also : Kamala Harris Opens TikTok Account After President Joe Biden's Nomination ByteDance, TikTok Face Scrutiny on Alleged Data Collection In one of the filed documents, DOJ claimed that a search tool within Lark's web-suite system has "allowed ByteDance and TikTok employees in the United States and China to collect bulk user information based on the user's content or expressions, including views on gun control, abortion, and religion." The department argued that TikTok could easily use these types of information to manipulate the algorithm. Moreover, it was also emphasized that any sensitive information by users could end up stored on Chinese servers. The recent documents were submitted as DOJ seeks the rejection of TikTok's request to overturn the law that forces ByteDance to sell the company or face banning in 2025. ByteDance, TikTok Continues Fight Against Nearing Ban Since President Joe Biden signed the bill into law last April, TikTok has been working to prove its innocence on specific accusations about its parent company, ByteDance. The U.S. government cited that the ban is to protect its citizens from security risks. The social media giant has repeatedly denied the accusations and called the law "unconstitutional." Several users of the platform also went on strike to prevent the potential ban of the social media. About 170 million Americans are actively using TikTok. About a third of the young voting population also stated that they use the platform for news. Chinese premier meets president of Timor-Leste Xinhua) 09:40, July 29, 2024 Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta here on Sunday. Li said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 22 years ago, no matter how the international landscape has evolved, China and Timor-Leste have always understood and supported each other, deepened political mutual trust and achieved fruitful results in practical cooperation. China is willing to work with Timor-Leste to further carry forward their traditional friendship, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation and achieve more results to better benefit the two peoples, Li added. Noting that China will, as always, firmly support Timor-Leste in pursuing a development path suited to its own national conditions and in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security and development interests, Li said the two sides should further synergize their development strategies, deepen practical cooperation and inject more impetus into their respective modernization drives. He said China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Timor-Leste in infrastructure and connectivity under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, expand mutually beneficial cooperation to a wider range of fields, and help Timor-Leste improve its independent development capabilities. China is willing to import more quality products from Timor-Leste and encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in Timor-Leste, Li said, adding that China is ready to deepen communication and coordination with Timor-Leste in multilateral areas, strengthen exchanges and cooperation on climate policy, support Timor-Leste's early accession to ASEAN, and jointly contribute to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity. Noting that China was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste, Ramos-Horta thanked China for its long-term support for Timor-Leste. He said Timor-Leste highly appreciates China's important role in international and regional affairs, firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports and actively participates in the Belt and Road Initiative, welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Timor-Leste, and hopes to deepen cooperation with China in various fields. Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) After the ninth meeting last week of the governing body of the NITI Aayog, an approach paper that purported to detail a vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047 was released. This is, of course, a buzzword and target that has been repeated several times by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is important, therefore, to evaluate what the governments think tank believes is necessary to make this vision a reality. A tone of great confidence pervades the document, born of the belief that India has made visible strides in its transformation journey and is now ready for take-off. Political strategist-turned-activist Prashant Kishor during an interview with PTI, in New Delhi, Friday, April 5, 2024. (PTI: Photo/Gurinder Osan) Political analyst and former election strategist Prashant Kishor on Sunday announced that he would extend his Jan Suraaj political campaign into a political party on the occasion of the Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 and contest the coming Bihar Assembly elections. During an event in Patna, Kishor, previously associated with Nitish Kumars Janata Dal (United), made the announcement. At the event, Jagriti Thakur, the granddaughter of former Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, also joined Kishors campaign. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Jan Suraaj will become a political party on October 2 and contest next year's assembly polls, Kishor said. He clarified that he would not lead the party but rather hand over its helm to a Dalit leader. Kishor will hold a second meeting related to the partys launch on August 4, aimed at the participation of the youth officials of the Jan Suraaj campaign. Prashant Kishors political journey Kishor himself earlier served as the vice-president of JD(U) but had a falling out with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Yesterday, the After more than two-years of Padyatra through thousands of villages and small towns of Bihar, we formally started the process of party formation to give a better alternative that would end decades of misery and ensure a better future for the children of #Bihar Yesterday, the pic.twitter.com/UREEPLyBtH July 29, 2024 Kishor came to the spotlight in 2014, credited with crafting Prime Minister Narendra Modis brand image, which sparked a Modi wave and led to an unprecedented victory for the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. A former public health activist with the United Nations, Kishor also founded the Indian Political Action Committee or I-PAC in 2013. His coming involvement in the Bihar assembly elections represents a full circle, as the NDA strategist was also behind Nitish Kumars 2015 victory against the BJP in the state. Jan Suraaj campaign launch Kishor was expelled from JD(U) in January 2020 over indiscipline after he publicly criticised the partys move to support the CAA. Soon after, to highlight Kumars misgovernance in Bihar, he launched the Baat Bihar Ki campaign. To create a new Bihar, Kumar launched the Jan Suraaj campaign in the form of a padyatra (foot journey) on October 2, 2022 to garner support for his cause. According to the official website of Jan Suraaj campaign, a total of 567,382 people have signed up to become members of the party so far. PwC India has announced a partnership with Microsoft India to spruce up incident response and recovery capabilities. According to a release, the alliance brings together PwC India's incident management capabilities and Microsoft's advanced technology to protect enterprises effectively, at a time when organisations face increasingly-sophisticated cyber threats. "With the use of Microsoft Copilot (generative artificial intelligence chatbot) for security -- a generative AI-powered security solution, enterprises can leverage Microsoft's large-scale data and threat intelligence security graph with PwC's secure system rebuilding and broader incident management capabilities," the release said. Moreover, faster removal of threat actors can be achieved with Microsoft Incident Response swiftly, identifying and evicting bad actors, while PwC India focuses on rebuilding mission-critical systems securely, it added. Washington, which rejected the 2018 reelection of Socialist leader Maduro, eased sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry last October Photo: X@NicolasMaduro The United States has serious concerns that results announced by Venezuela's electoral authority declaring President Nicolas Maduro had won a third term, do not reflect the votes of the people, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday. Just minutes after the authority said Maduro had won the presidential election, Blinken interrupted remarks at a meeting of Indo-Pacific nations to address the development. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp "We've seen the announcement just a short while ago by the Venezuelan electoral commission. We have serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people," Blinken said. Blinken on Monday said the international community was watching closely and would respond accordingly. "It's critical that every vote is counted fairly and transparently, that election officials immediately share information with the opposition and electoral observers without delay and that the electoral authorities publish detailed tabulation of votes," he said. Venezuela's national electoral council (CNE) said Maduro had won the poll with 51% of the vote, despite multiple exit polls pointing to an opposition win. The CNE is meant to be an independent body, but the opposition alleges its acts as an arm of the government. A poll from Edison Research, known for its polling of US elections, had predicted in an exit poll that Gonzalez would win 65% of the vote, while Maduro would win 31%. Washington, which rejected the 2018 reelection of Socialist leader Maduro, eased sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry last October in response to a deal between Maduro and opposition parties. Washington later reinstated the sanctions over actions that it said threatened an inclusive democratic vote, and US officials have said they will calibrate their sanctions policy going forward on how the elections were run. Friday, July 26, 2024 at 8:39PM Image: 2K Games Netflix's long-awaited adaptation of the iconic video game BioShock is still in development but with a significant change. According to producer Roy Lee, the film has undergone a "reconfiguration" due to budget cuts imposed by Netflix's new leadership. The project will now focus on a more intimate, character-driven story rather than the grand, epic scope originally envisioned. While the news might disappoint fans hoping for a lavish, big-screen spectacle, Lee remains optimistic about the project's potential. The film, directed by Francis Lawrence, is still in the writing phase and is aiming to stay true to the spirit of the original game. However, the specific setting for the adaptation remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from the underwater city of Rapture to the floating metropolis of Columbia or an entirely new environment. As the BioShock movie continues to evolve, the video game franchise itself is also making headlines. A leaked image has recently surfaced, hinting at the long-awaited next installment in the series. Source: 1 + 2 Eimear Dodd A Dublin man who raped two sex workers and attempted to rape a third in separate incidents over an eight-month period in 2021 has been jailed for 18 years. Aaron Barwell (29) of Coldcut Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, pleaded guilty to one count of oral rape, one of rape and one of attempted rape on dates between January and August 2021. The three victims were all working as escorts at the time, and each had a profile on a website listing their services. The Central Criminal Court previously heard that Barwell arranged for each victim to come to his residence on separate occasions, where he carried out the offences. Imposing sentence on Monday, Mr Justice Tony Hunt noted Barwell had committed a series of violent sexual offences against women. Describing the facts of the case as abysmal, he noted that Barwell initially gave each victim an incorrect address, which he said showed a certain amount of deviousness in terms of planning. The judge noted this was a case which involved considered, planned and serious sexual offending of a sequential variety. He said it is concerning that the second and third offences were committed in light of the first and that this case cries out for consecutive sentences. The judge also noted the use of violence went beyond that inherent in the offences and that Barwell had falsely induced the victims to believe he was an ordinary customer. Mr Justice Hunt said it appeared to the court that Barwell may have made a calculation that ladies who pursue this type of activity might be less tempted to bring it further. However, the judge said, If that was part of his calculation, the gamble came spectacularly unstuck. Mr Justice Hunt noted people who commit offences of this nature will pay a very heavy price. The judge said that the days of a lenient approach to violence against women are gone. If you choose to engage in that behaviour, a heavy price has to be paid. I think courts and society want that to be the position. Referring to the victim impact statements, Mr Justice Hunt said they expressed the stress, anxiety, fear and long-term damage caused to the women. He expressed the view that the stress and anxiety may never go away. Like anything else of a serious nature in life, one can accommodate oneself to these matters. But the clock can never be turned back. Mr Justice Hunt set a total headline sentence of 36 years to reflect the gravity of the offending. He said the court didn't think this was disproportionate to the wrongdoing in this case, noting that Barwell is a relatively young man who, with ordinary luck, would be able to serve a sentence of that variety. However, Mr Justice Hunt said the court was conscious that 36 years is a significant period and having considered the principles of totality and proportionality, he reduced the headline sentence to 27 years. Mr Justice Hunt said it would be unacceptable to have a sentencing regime which suggested that second or subsequent serious offending should come at little or no cost, and this must be considered to be aggravating. The judge noted the mitigation, including the guilty plea, which was of significant importance and value. He also said he took into consideration Barwell's age, background, his lack of previous convictions and the need to encourage rehabilitation. Mr Justice Hunt handed Barwell a total sentence of 20 years, with the final two years suspended. He further directed Barwell to undergo four years of post-release supervision, have no contact with any of the injured parties, and commit no further sexual offences in his lifetime. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. By Cillian Sherlock, PA Tributes have continued for acclaimed Irish novelist Edna OBrien following her death at the age of 93. The author died peacefully on Saturday following a long illness, a statement from her agent and publishing house said. OBrien a novelist, short story writer, memoirist, poet and playwright is best known for her portrayal of womens lives against repressive expectations in Irish society. On Monday, Co Wexford-born author Colm Toibin said OBrien was a brave writer who broke glass in Ireland. Speaking on BBC Radio 4s Today programme, he said: She wrote about sexuality, about women, about young womens lives. In a way she was punished for that, the censorship laws were there, but it wasnt just the Irish censorship laws, it was the entire way society dealt with her. Toibin, author of novels including Brooklyn and House Of Names, added: When I was growing up, for example, there was a book of hers hidden over the wardrobe. The name Edna OBrien suggested not only, I suppose, the breaking of glass, as I said, but a sort of glamour moving to London and living a different sort of life. The life she lived in London was a sort of lifetime effort to get over that initial idea that she was a filthy writer, that she was a scandalous woman a title of one of her other books that she was a very serious literary artist. President Michael D Higgins said she was one of the outstanding writers of modern times while Taoiseach Simon Harris said Ireland had lost an icon. Mr Harris said: Edna said that her writing was her breathing and in recent years while promoting her novel Girl she told interviewers I want to go out as someone who spoke the truth. Niamh ODonoghue A man has been jailed for eight years for raping a homeless woman in Limerick City five years ago. Cristian Gogosiou (37) of Mount Kenneth Place, Limerick pleaded not guilty to one count of rape and one count of oral rape at a location in the city on September 26, 2019. He was convicted on both counts by a Central Criminal Court jury in Limerick earlier this year. The court heard the woman, who cannot be named to protect her identity, was 31 and living in homeless accommodation at the time of the incident. Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford handed down a 10-year sentence and suspended the last two years, backdating it to May 23rd, 2022 for time spent in custody. She also put him on the sex offenders register. She said the aggravating factors were the use of a knife and said the defence that she was doing it for money was not accepted by the jury. The judge said she could not agree with defence counsel Colman Cody SC's view that the offending was in the lower range and said the aggravating factors were the vulnerability of the accused, the degrading nature of where it took place and his failure to enter a plea. She said the offending fell into the category of a headline sentence of 12 years but reduced this to 10 based on the mitigating factors of him being a Romanian and having to serve time in an Irish prison. She also noted that he had three children, one of whom is in Romania. Det Sgt Enda Clifford told the court the woman was struggling with homelessness and addiction. She said she encountered a man who was well-dressed with a beard who asked her for sexual intercourse. He said hed give her 6,000 and jewellery. She said she needed the toilet and went down an alley. He took a medium-sized flick knife and said he would cut off her giblets. He pushed her towards the wall and attacked her. A used condom was later found on the ground. She was brought to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit. It took a year to identify him but gardai finally apprehended him on September16, 2020. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. By Cillian Sherlock, PA The Government will take the necessary steps to reduce road deaths, the Taoiseach has said. Simon Harris issued a plea to drivers to slow down ahead of the bank holiday weekend. His comments came after five people died in separate crashes across the Republic of Ireland over the last weekend. Mr Harris said: I want to express my deep sorrow at the loss of the five people who were killed on Irish roads in recent days. I send my condolences to their families, their friends and their communities. These are devastating losses. He added: 113 people have now lost their lives on Irish roads this year an increase of 16 in comparison to the same period last year. As a country, we had made significant progress in reducing the number of people losing their lives on Irish roads in recent years. That progress is at risk. These are not statistics, they are lost lives and shattered families. We are now at a critical juncture. We must take steps as individuals, as communities, as a country to reverse the trend and prevent more lives being lost. Government will play its part and will take the necessary steps, but we need the help of every driver across the country. As we approach the August bank holiday weekend, I am urging everyone to slow down, put the phone away and never, ever take a drink or drugs before getting into a car. Lives can be saved by taking these simple but important steps to help keep each other safe. On Sunday, two people died in a crash involving three motorcycles. A motorcyclist, a man in his 30s, and his pillion passenger, a man in his 40s, were pronounced dead at the scene in Bellaney, Co Meath. Later that same day, another man died in a single-car crash in Navan, Co Meath. On Saturday, a 14-year-old boy who had been travelling on an e-scooter died after being struck by a car in Co Kilkenny. Earlier on Saturday, a 40-year-old man died in a crash near Kinsale, Co Cork. In Northern Ireland, police have appealed for witnesses after a motorcyclist was killed in a crash with a car in Co Down. The rider who died in Sundays collision was a man in his 50s. Votorantim Cimentos divests business in Tunisia ICR Newsroom By 29 July 2024 On 26 July Votorantim Cimentos signed an agreement for the full sale of its Tunisian assets to Sinoma Cement Co Ltd, a China-based building materials enterprise. The sale includes the effective transfer of Votorantims assets in the country and financial liquidation and is subject to the fulfilment of standard transaction conditions. These include approval by regulatory authorities in China, Tunisia and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa. Further details of the divestment have been kept confidential. The companys divestment is aligned with its wider portfolio management strategy, which aims to boost value for its shareholders as well as balance the regional positioning between mature and emerging markets. This will minimise the risk incurred by the company. Published under The 26-year-old man who drowned at Haig Mill Lake Park in Dalton has been identified as Ivan Gonzalez of Calhoun, Ga.Personnel and water craft from the Department of Natural Resources, Gordon County Fire Rescue and the Georgia State Patrol Dive Team assisted Dalton personnel with a search for the victim.Authorities said, "Preliminary information from the investigation indicates that the man was with his brother-in-law using kayaks on the water.The victim had apparently taken off his life jacket while near a dock on the lake near the northern dam.For reasons that arent yet fully clear, at some point the victim swam out into the lake, possibly trying to retrieve a kayak that had drifted away. The victim reportedly became tired and began calling for help. He eventually fell beneath the surface of the water.A person who was fishing on the other side of the lake made a 911 call at 7:02 p.m. to call for help. When first responders from the the Dalton Fire Departments nearby Station 3 arrived there was no sign of the victim."There is no indication of any foul play in the incident, authorities said. Attorney Robin Flores said he was inside his office in the 4100 block of Brainerd Road on Sunday afternoon when he heard shots fired. "There were three shots, then squealing of tires, and three more shots," he said. Chattanooga Police said they were notified that a gunshot victim arrived at the East Ridge Police Department seeking assistance. The individual was confirmed to be the victim of the Brainerd Road shooting incident. EMS transported the 18-year-old female victim to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Attorney Flores said he showed police video from a building he owns next to his law office. He said it showed a vehicle leaving the scene. A $100,000 settlement has been reached in the lawsuit in which a county deputy baptized a woman in Lake Chickamauga after a traffic stop. It is subject to a vote of the County Commission on Wednesday. Defendants in the case included the county and former deputy Daniel Wilkey. Attorney Robin Flores said the $100,000 is the amount of a bond put up by the county earlier in the case. Some of the counts against Wilkey had been dismissed by Judge Travis McDonough, but others remained. The woman, Shandle Marie Riley, later died - not related to the baptism. Wilkey was indicted in 2019 on 44 charges including rape, assault, and official oppression. The charges were later dismissed. A string of lawsuits filed against him for various actions had been either dropped or dismissed. Wilkey faces one more case that is on the federal docket for next Monday. It relates to an incident in July of 2019 where James Mitchell was in a car with Latisha Menifee in Soddy Daisy. Their car was pulled over by Deputies Wilkey and Bobby Brewer. It was alleged the deputies used excessive force on Mitchell. Details of the bizarre incident in which the deputy baptized the woman in Soddy Lake after finding her with marijuana during a traffic stop emerged earlier in court pleadings. Judge McDonough earlier opened his legal analysis of the case by stating, "Before the Court is Defendant Jacob Goforths motion for summary judgment. In this atypical civil-rights case, Plaintiff Shandle Marie Riley brings several claims stemming from a traffic stop that ultimately resulted in her baptism - yes, baptism - by on-duty Hamilton County Sheriffs deputy Defendant Daniel Wilkey. Goforth, who was also on duty and was present for the desacralized rite, argues that he is entitled to qualified immunity on Rileys 42 U.S.C. 1983 claims and that Riley cannot factually support her state law tort claims against him." The judge then provided this background: On February 6, 2019, around 9:15 p.m., Wilkey pulled Riley over in the driveway of her ex-mother-in-law Diane Smiths home. Wilkey approached Rileys driver-side window and asked her what she had in the car. Riley confessed that she had a marijuana roach in her cigarette pack. Wilkey then opened the door for Riley to exit the car and directed her to place her hands on the roof. Wilkey searched her person for about twenty seconds and then handcuffed her. Another deputy, Tyler McRae, arrived while Wilkey was handcuffing her. After a minute or so of searching, Riley turned around and spoke to Wilkey face-to-face. After they spoke, Wilkey searched her pockets and eventually directed her to wait at the front of his patrol car. Riley testified that, while searching her this second time, Wilkey inappropriately touched her crotch. Wilkey found the marijuana cigarette upon searching Rileys person. Wilkey searched Rileys vehicle while she waited near the patrol car.. According to Riley, Wilkey tore [her] car apart searching for other contraband. at 8 (clarifying that he did not literally tear anything but that he searched it very, very well).) After searching the vehicle and talking with her at length, Wilkey removed the handcuffs. He then directed Riley to pull up her shirt and shake out her shirt and bra, which she did. Wilkey did not find any additional contraband. The dashcam video contains no audio of Wilkey and Rileys conversations. Wilkey and Riley next discussed religion. They spoke for another thirty minutes, and McRae left sometime during this conversation. Riley testified that Wilkey asked her whether she had been baptized. She responded with concern that she may not be ready. But, according to Rileys testimony, Wilkey told her God [was] talking to him and assured her that, if she got baptized, he would only write her a citation and she would be free to go about her business. According to Riley, Wilkey also indicated that he would speak at court on her behalf if she agreed. Riley decided to go along with this plan because she[did not] want to go to jail. She also thought [Wilkey] was a God-fearing, church-like man who saw something . . . in [her], that God talked to him, and testified that it felt good to believe that for a minute. When later asked whether Wilkey gave [her] the option not to do this, Riley answered: What do you mean gave me the option? I mean it wasnt, it wasnt by gunpoint . . . or anything. . . . I dont know, like - Im not sure he told me - I mean, . . . I dont know if those words [came] out. But I mean, I know that I didnt have to do it. I mean, I know that Im a grown woman and I know I didnt have to do it. Upon Wilkeys suggestion, Riley went into Smiths house to get some towels for the baptism. She was only in the house for a couple minutes, where she spoke briefly to her son, and asked Smith if she could borrow some towels. Smith asked why, and Riley responded, I guess Im fixing to get baptized. Smith asked her whether that was safe, and Riley replied I dont know. Well find out. After Riley emerged from the house with towels, Wilkey issued her a citation. Riley and Wilkey returned to their respective vehicles, and Riley followed Wilkey in her car for about twelve minutes to Soddy Lake. That night, Goforth was also on patrol. Wilkey called (Jacob) Goforth while driving to Soddy Lake and requested [his] presence at the Soddy Lake boat ramp to witness a baptism. Goforth believed Wilkey was baptizing someone who he knew personally. Goforth did not learn that Riley had been cited for a criminal offense until he arrived at the boat ramp. Goforth avers that he asked [Wilkey] if he had thought about [baptizing Riley] in an effort to provoke reconsideration, but that Wilkey wanted to proceed. Wilkey arrived at Soddy Lake around 10:36 p.m. and waited in his car for several minutes. Once Goforth arrived, Wilkey introduced Riley and Goforth to each other, stating that Riley wanted to be baptized. In preparation for the baptism, Wilkey told Riley, Im going to be honest with you, . . .Im going to strip down to my skivvies, but he asked Riley to keep her clothes on. asking her to bear with [him]).) Wilkey removed all his clothing except his underwear and t-shirt, and Riley remained fully clothed except for her shoes. Wilkey baptized Riley by quickly submerging her in the water while holding her with one hand on her back and the other hand on her front. Goforth filmed the baptism on his cellphone.Goforth avers that he did so to protect all persons present and document the event. (also stating that he thought that making the video would prevent Riley from claiming something happened which did not) There is some dispute as to where Wilkey was touching Riley during the actual baptism: stated one of his arms was touching her breast but in the video Goforth took of the baptism, it appears as though Wilkey was only holding her arm. Wilkey and Riley were in the water for approximately one minute and twenty seconds total. Once out of the water, Riley and Wilkey hugged each other for roughly four seconds. When asked why she had hugged Wilkey, Riley testified that she was just trying to get the heck out of there, and that she left immediately without talking with Wilkey or Goforth. Riley also testified that Goforth smirked at her while she was drying herself off, though Goforth denies interacting with her in any way. Riley further stated that, at that point, [she] knew it had nothing to do with God [or] . . . with saving [her or] . . . with [anyone] being a good person. It had something to do with power and control[.] Goforth avers that Wilkey and Riley spoke pleasantly to each other[,] laughing and joking among themselves and that Riley appeared to be participating in the event voluntarily and with enthusiasm. At 11:00 p.m., all three walked back to their vehicles. There was some conversation and laughter before Riley departed, and Goforth and Wilkey continued talking after she left. On September 31, 2019, Riley filed this action in the Circuit Court for Hamilton County, Tennessee (Doc. 1-1), and, on October 29, 2019, Defendant Hamilton County removed the action with Wilkey and Goforths consent (Doc. 1). Judge McDonough did not find that Goforth violated Ms. Riley's unreasonable search rights so that claim was thrown out. However, he did not throw out another claim against Goforth involving illegal seizure based on Goforth's obligation to stop another officer from committing a constitutional violation. The Health Department announced its first annual Back-to-School Open House event, set to take place on Thursday, from 5-8 p.m. at the 3rd Street location. This event is designed to support families in the community by providing essential services and resources to help prepare children for the new school year. The event will feature a variety of free services and activities, including: Free Vaccine Records Pediatric Vaccines Free School Supplies (While supplies last) Dental Clinic Scheduling Free Food (While supplies last) Car Seat Education Health Department Resources Free Community Partners Resources (PBS, La Paz, Centerstone, Erlanger, CPD, CFD, HCSO, EMS, EMA) First Responder touch-a-truck section Free weather radios/Signing up for the text emergency alert system (While supplies last) There will be bilingual staff and ASL interpreters available on-site to assist with language needs to ensure that all families can fully participate in the event. "We are thrilled to invite families to the Health Department, possibly for the first time," said Sabrina Novak, Health Department administrator. "The Back-to-School Open House is an opportunity to access Health Department services, meet our wonderful staff, and learn about available programs. This event focuses on providing support and resources for families to ensure a smoother and healthier start to the school year and to prepare children for success. We are eager to welcome you to this Open House, dedicated to meeting the needs of our community and fostering strong relationships with the families we serve." For more information, visit the Health Departments website atHealth.HamiltonTN.org. Additional resources Girls Inc. of Chattanooga held its Girl Start Academy graduation and a Back-to-School Bash celebration. Both events were met with support from the participants families and community partners, making it a memorable week for all involved, said officials. The Girl Start Academy is the Pre-K seasonal camp designed to equip young girls with the essential skills needed to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Throughout the camp, participants learned to write their names, work in groups, and were introduced to traditional and non-traditional career paths. Organizers also prepared them for practical tasks like navigating a lunch line and ensuring they were ready for the next stage in their educational journey. The Girl Start Academy Program coordinators will continue to follow the participants throughout their kindergarten year, providing support and checking in with them at their schools. The week culminated in a Back-to-School Bash celebration, where participants and their families enjoyed a fun-filled day. Girls Inc. of Chattanooga distributed free backpacks, offered food and provided various resources to help kick off the school year on a positive note. Community partners who made the event possible include The Pop-Up Project, Chattanooga Fire Department, Penny's Lemonade, Hamilton County Schools, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga, Party Bites Kitchen + Catering Events, and Kona Ice. Sponsors were the Tennessee State Department of Human Services, The Weldon F. Osborne Foundation, Tennessee Valley Authority, The Lyndhurst Foundation, Chattanooga Gas, and McKee Foods. For more information about Girls Inc. of Chattanooga programs, please contact Fance Brannock, director of Program Operations (fbrannock@girlsincofchatt.org), or visit https://www.girlsincofchatt.org/ourprograms. The Chattanooga Area Food Bank and Five Star Breaktime Solutions charity Feeding the Future announce the inaugural Nooga Hunger Walk Run will be held on Sunday, Sept. 8, at 2 p.m. at 201 Riverfront Pkwy. This community event is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for those struggling with hunger and facing food insecurity in southeast Tennessee and northwest Georgia. Register individually or as a team at https://chattfoodbank.org/page/nooga-hunger-run. Early bird prices are available. The day will include activities for all ages. There will be a kids zone starting at 12 p.m. before the race and after - including face painting and games. To sponsor this event, please email Summer Simmons at Ssimmons@chattfoodbank.org. Criminal Court Judge Amanda Dunn said she would not ban reporter David Tulis from covering a trial that starts Tuesday, but she said she would monitor conduct during the case. She said, "If there are any efforts made by any individual to personally speak with a potential juror or otherwise influence the jury panel in this case, the Court will issue an order to prevent further conduct, potentially including criminal contempt." District Attorney Coty Wamp had asked that Mr. Tulis be banned from the Courts Building during the trial of plumber Ray Rzeplinski, calling him "disruptive." Mr. Tulis had written a number of articles in support of the defendant. Judge Dunn said, "When there is an open, public trial, the media has an absolute right to publish any information that is disseminated during the course of the trial." She said, "As the Court reads the multitudes of state and federal cases addressing the right of the media to be present in the courtroom, it is apparent that a prohibition on reporting what takes place inside a courtroom constitutes a prior restraint in violation of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Courtrooms must remain open to the media, even if the reporting may be biased or potentially unfair to one party or the other, in order to ensure that constitutional rights to a public trial and freedom of the process are honored." She stated, "Mr. Tulis has appeared in the Second Division of Criminal Court on more than one occasion. To date, he has never disrupted a court proceeding and the Court expects he will continue to maintain decorum during the trial in question. As a member of the media, Mr. Tulis has a right to report the events of the trial, and therefore the Court declines to prevent him from attending trial in this case." Judge Dunn also ruled, "The Court respectfully disagrees with the State that Mr. Tulis's use of his media platforms to promote jury nullification in this case constitutes improper influence of a juror." Rzeplinski is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon, resisting arrest, and possession of a firearm with a conviction of a prior violent felony. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of a fire that gutted a home in Ringgold on Monday morning. A man inside the home died. A neighbor called Catoosa County E-911 shortly after 7 a.m. reporting a fire next door with someone possibly inside. Catoosa County firefighters from four stations were dispatched to 175 Joe Tike Dr. Off-duty firefighters in the area heard the call and responded to the scene. Upon arrival firefighters found heavy fire conditions on the second floor and roof. Firefighters entered the home and began attacking the fire as they searched for a person reported to be inside. A man was found in an upstairs bedroom who had succumbed to injuries. The fire and death are being investigated by the Catoosa County Fire Department, Catoosa County Sheriffs Office, Catoosa County Coroner, and the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire. Walker County Fire Rescue and Georgia Department of Corrections provided mutual aid response coverage in Catoosa County. Chattanooga has been selected as the new home of IBMAs World of Bluegrass (WOB) multi-day event in 2025, 2026, and 2027, with the inaugural event taking place Sept. 16-20, 2025. Making the announcement were the Chattanooga Tourism Co., in partnership with the General Assembly, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD), and the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA). House and Senate Finance Chairs Rep. Patsy Hazlewood (R-Signal Mountain) and Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson) also named Chattanooga as the first recipient of the Tennessee Special Event Fund. In 2022, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee partnered with the General Assembly to appropriate $25 million in the state budget for a fund designed to attract large-scale events expected to generate at least $10 million in visitor spending and $1 million in state and local taxes. The Chattanooga Tourism Co. will use the award to invest in the support and growth of the WOB event. Tennessee is proud to welcome IBMAs World of Bluegrass to Chattanooga. This event is not only a testament to our states vibrant cultural heritage but also a significant economic driver for our communities, said Rep. Hazlewood. We are excited to support this event that will bring Bluegrass enthusiasts together in our city and give us an opportunity to showcase Tennessee and Chattanooga to an audience coming from literally around the world. Barry White, president and CEO of the Chattanooga Tourism Co., said, The Tourism Co. is honored to be the first recipient of Tennessees new Special Event Fund and to welcome the WOB to Chattanooga. We are extremely excited to bring this event to Chattanooga and highlight our citys flourishing cultural scene, while also generating economic returns to our community. The five-day WOB event, scheduled for Sept. 16-20, 2025, will feature a convention, trade show, awards show, artist showcases across downtown, and a two-day live music festival with top bluegrass artists worldwide. The Tourism Co. estimates the 2025 WOB event will attract 18,000+ overnight visitors and more than 45,000+ including day visitors, generate $30.1 million in economic impact, and yield $1.1 million in state tax revenue. Visitor spending will support local jobs and additional tax revenues, benefiting multiple industries beyond tourism, it was stated. Ken White, executive director of IBMA, said, "In our mission to spread the music, IBMA considered 30+ destinations for a new home. While other cities could offer the necessary commitment, the passion and enthusiasm of the people of Chattanooga truly stood out. We are incredibly grateful for the support from the state of Tennessee and the welcoming spirit of Chattanooga. This citys unique charm and hospitality makes it a perfect home for WOB artists and guests. Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development added, We are ready to welcome the worlds largest events to Tennessee stages. IBMAs World of Bluegrass is a great way to showcase our rich musical heritage, and the very goal of the Special Event Fund is to support local partners as they pursue and secure high-value events like this that represent tremendous economic benefit for Tennessee businesses. Officials said, "Thanks to the financial investment and support of the WOB sponsors, Chattanooga successfully secured this prestigious event. Special thanks to Governor Bill Lee, House and Senate Finance Chairs Rep. Patsy Hazlewood (R-Signal Mountain) and Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson), Commissioner Mark Ezell and team at the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Riverview Foundation, Benwood Foundation, Fletcher Bright Realty, River City Co., Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and team, City of Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and team, and numerous local partners, including hotels, restaurants, and cultural organizations." For more information on IBMAs World of Bluegrass and how to participate, visit VisitChattanooga.com/WOB. Hutton, a retail real estate and development company, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Splash Car Wash, headquartered in Milford, Connecticut, announced a joint venture to construct a new express car wash in Springfield, Mass. The site, outfitted with a 130-foot tunnel and 20 free-of-charge self-service vacuums, will be operated by, and branded as, Splash Car Wash. This is Splash's second site in the state. Under the leadership of Karen Hutton, Hutton has developed properties for iconic brands such as Dollar General, Burlington, Hobby Lobby, Ulta, Mavis, Aspen Dental, O'Reilly's Auto Parts, Walmart Neighborhood Market, Publix, Taco Bell and more in over 1,300 sites throughout the country. In addition to traditional retail and F&B building experience, Hutton also has developed over 100 car wash sites that operate under the ModWash trade name. Officials said, "Hutton and Splash have been discussing development opportunities and decided that a collaboration that brings together their respective development and car wash operating expertise could accelerate growth for both companies." "We couldn't be more excited to partner with Karen Hutton and her team of talented development professionals", stated Mark Curtis, CEO and co-founder of Splash. Dan Petrelle, COO of Splash, added "Karen and her team bring a wealth of knowledge in site selection and development. We look forward to opening our second location in Massachusetts with their assistance and to building a strong partnership." The United States has filed a complaint against Murphy Medical Center, Inc. and Erlanger Health System alleging that Erlanger submitted false Medicare claims. It was filed in Federal Court for the Western District of North Carolina. The government alleges that Erlanger, a health care system located in Tennessee and North Carolina, violated the Stark Law. Erlanger said it will vigorously defend against the lawsuit. Officials said, "Erlanger paid physicians based on amounts that outside experts advised was fair market value. Erlanger did not pay for referrals. A complete picture of the facts will demonstrate that the allegations lack merit and tell a very different story than what the government now claims." The Stark Law prohibits a hospital from billing Medicare for services referred by a physician with whom the hospital has an improper financial relationship that does not meet any statutory or regulatory exception. The governments complaint alleges that Erlanger had employment relationships with a number of physicians that did not meet any Stark Law exception because the compensation Erlanger paid to the physicians was well above fair market value. The complaint alleges that Erlanger received referrals from these physicians in violation of the Stark Law and submitted claims to Medicare knowing that the claims for those referred services were not eligible for payment. Improper financial relationships between hospitals and physicians threaten the integrity of clinical decision-making and can influence the type and amount of health care that is provided to patients, said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Departments Civil Division. The department is committed to ensuring that physicians treatment decisions are based on the needs of their patients and not their own financial interests. The governments complaint alleges that Erlanger compromised Stark Law compliance to boost its financial standing, knowingly overpaying physicians whose practices generated profits for the hospital, said U.S. Attorney Dena J. King for the Western District of North Carolina. We are dedicated to enforcing the Stark Law and protecting patients and the Medicare program from financial relationships that undermine public trust and incentivize overbilling and waste of taxpayer dollars. This complaint serves as a warning to health care entities that attempt to increase profits through improper financial arrangements with referring physicians, said Special Agent in Charge Tamala E. Miles of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). HHS-OIG will continue to investigate such deals to prevent financial arrangements that could compromise impartial medical judgment, increase health care costs, and erode public trust in the health care system. The United States filed its complaint in a lawsuit originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and to receive a share of any recovery. The Act permits the United States to intervene and take over the lawsuit, as it has done here in part. Those who violate the Act are subject to treble damages and applicable penalties. Officials said, "The governments intervention in this matter illustrates the governments emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act." Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The Justice Departments Civil Division and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of North Carolina handled the case, with assistance from HHS-OIG. The case is captioned United States of America, the State of North Carolina, and the State of Tennessee ex rel. Alana Sullivan and J. Britton Tabor v. Murphy Medical Center, Inc., et al. No. 1:21-CV-219-MR-WCM (W.D.N.C.). Merck has signed an agreement to sell its global Surface Solutions business unit to Global New Material International Holdings Ltd. (GNMI) for 665 million in cash. Merck intends to use the net proceeds from the divestment to further strengthen its strategic core businesses. The divestiture of the Surface Solutions business unit will further sharpen our focus on high-tech applications in Electronics, such as driving the development of next-generation chips as an integrated solutions provider for our semiconductor customers, said Belen Garijo, Chair of the Executive Board and CEO of Merck. GNMI and our Surface Solutions business will join forces and combine their strengths to form an even stronger team, delivering excellence in the pigments industry. The combination of Surface Solutions and GNMI will strengthen the competitiveness of the business, thus providing better prospects for employees and customers. At the same time, this transaction gives us the opportunity to focus even more intensively on the semiconductor and display industries within Electronics, added Kai Beckmann, Member of the Executive Board of Merck and CEO Electronics. Mercks Surface Solutions unit and GNMI share the philosophy of growing a customer-centric business. Our activities are highly complementary in terms of products, expertise and regional footprint. By joining forces, we will be excellently positioned to jointly drive growth in a very dynamic market segment. The combined businesses will provide even more customer proximity with a presence in every region along with an even broader product portfolio that stands for quality and reliability, said Ertian Su, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of GNMI. We are impressed by the commitment, experience and expertise of Surface Solutions employees and are already looking forward to welcoming our future colleagues to the company. The combination will provide attractive long-term prospects for career development, including job guarantees for employees in Germany and a site guarantee for Gernsheim until 2032. This is a clear sign of how much we value the business and its employees. Surface Solutions offers pigment solutions used in coating, industrial and cosmetic applications. The business unit generated sales of 411 million in 2023. Roughly 1,200 employees, approximately 700 of whom are based in Germany, are to be transferred to GNMI as part of the transaction. GNMI, also known under the brand name Chesir, is one of the largest pearlescent pigment producers. Founded in 2011, the company has sites in China and Korea with approximately 800 employees and is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange. GNMI has profound expertise in effect pigments and the rapidly growing and competitive field of mica-based products. The company is characterized by a deep understanding of the Asian and, in particular, the Chinese market, especially in the area of pearlescent pigments, industrial coatings and plastics. It also specializes in rapid commercialization and optimized profitability through economies of scale. To prepare for the completion of the sale, an integration team comprising representatives of both companies will be set up to define how the strengths of both businesses can best be combined. In addition, GNMI is planning for the Surface Solutions business unit to have three regional headquarters with one each in Germany, the United States and Asia, while maintaining its existing production facilities in Gernsheim, Germany, Onahama, Japan, and Savannah, Georgia, USA. Merck will remain the owner of the property at the Gernsheim site with a long-term lease contract with GNMI and a clear separation plan for the area used by Surface Solutions. The GreenTech Park Fluxum in Gernsheim is not affected by the sale. Most people will tell you that any partner who tells you that you need to change something about yourself thats out of your control isnt a loving partner after all. One woman recently upset her boyfriend after refusing to tone down her Southern accent before meeting his family in California. She and her boyfriend, Tyler, are in their 20s and have been dating for around six months. They both live in her home state of Georgia, where she was born and raised, attended school, and works. Tyler is from California but also attended school in Georgia, and he liked it so much that he decided to stay and work there after graduating. She never heard much about his life in California, as he seemed really happy in the South. Then, about a week ago, she was thrilled when Tyler asked her if shed like to join him on his upcoming trip home. He wanted her to meet his family, and she felt extremely flattered. I have only briefly talked to his mom, but she seems like a very sweet woman, she said. The trip is a few days away, so shes already begun packing and included her cowgirl boots in her suitcase. While there were really good vibes surrounding the upcoming trip, things changed when her boyfriend pointed at her boots in her suitcase and asked her if she really needed to bring them since they took up a lot of room. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Chimpanzees are one of our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom. So, of course, were bound to share some things in common. For instance, we have similar physical features. Plus, we both play, have complex emotions, and share about 98.6 percent of our DNA. But, it turns out that chimpanzees and humans may be even more alike than previously thought. In a new study, scientists discovered that chimpanzees engage in regular communication and take turns speaking in a fast-paced back-and-forth manner, much like humans do. They mostly communicate through hand gestures and facial expressions. The findings suggest that human language and chimp communication have deep evolutionary similarities. Researchers at the University of St. Andrews in the United Kingdom have been studying the gestures of chimps for a while. Previous studies have focused on the gestures of individual chimps, but the most recent research centers on how two chimpanzees communicate with each other. The researchers gathered data from wild chimpanzees in five communities across East Africa. This is the first time we could look at features of gesture exchanges across so many groups. It was a huge collaborative effort, said Gal Badihi, the lead author of the study and a research fellow at St. Andrews. They analyzed and translated over 8,000 gestures from 252 chimpanzees. They found that around 14 percent of the chimps communication consisted of gestures. The pace and pattern of the gestures closely resembled that of an average human conversation. The animals paused for just a fraction of a second before taking their turn to gesture. The gaps between speaking ranged from 100 to 300 milliseconds. We also found that even though all chimpanzees take fast turns, one group was a little slower than the others. This also matches slight variation between human societies with some groups being slow or fast talkers, Badihi said. Additionally, the gestures allowed the chimpanzees to cooperate with each other and avoid conflict. For example, one chimpanzee may gesture to another that they want food. The other might give them food or gesture for them to go away. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. At the Paris Olympics, songs from South Africa to Peru will call for divine protection and blessing. Illustration by Elizabeth Kaye / Source Images: Getty / Unsplash Often, the most moving moments of the Olympic Games are when athletes climb onto the podium to receive their gold medals as their countrys anthem plays. When Hidilyn Diaz won the womens 55-kilogram class in weightlifting at the Tokyo Olympics in July 2021, it was the Philippines first-ever gold medal in any sport. Tears flowed down her cheeks as she heard her countrys national anthem, Lupang Hinirang, play for the first time at the Olympics. The pageantry around todays Olympic award ceremonies are a 20th-century invention. The Olympic podium debuted at the Lake Placid Olympic Winter Games in 1932, and the tradition of raising the flags as the champions national anthem plays began at the Summer Olympic Games later that year in Los Angeles. As the Paris Olympics progresses and national anthems sound in living rooms around the world, CT has put together short explainers of five anthems full of Christian references and themes. While the most well-known Christian anthem in the worldand the oldestis the UKs God Save the King, little is known about its origins, so we instead featured anthems from New Zealand, Suriname, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, and South Africa. Sign up for Moore to the Point Join Russell Moore in thinking through the important questions of the day, along with book and music recommendations he has found formative. Email* Sign Up This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Thanks for signing up. Please click here to see all our newsletters. Sorry, something went wrong. Please try again. God Defend New Zealand God of Nations at Thy feet, In the bonds of love we meet, Hear our voices, we entreat, God defend our free land. Guard Pacific's triple star From the shafts of strife and war, Make her praises heard afar, God defend New Zealand. The New Zealand Saturday Advertiser published Irish journalist Thomas Brackens five-stanza poem God Defend New Zealand in 1876. Declaring it a new national hymn, the newspaper asked readers to send in music to accompany the poem for a prize, and Catholic teacher John Joseph Woods submitted the winning score. Two years later, it was translated into the indigenous language of Maori and titled Aotearoa, which is Maori for New Zealand. At the time, the then-British colonys anthem was God Save the King, and it wasnt until 1940 that the government purchased the rights to Brackens lyrics and Woodss music. After a petition calling for it to become a national anthem garnered over 7,000 signatures in 1976, God Defend New Zealand was finally given equal footing with the royal anthem in 1977, making it one of New Zealands two national anthems. Today, about nearly half of New Zealanders claim no religion, and while some have criticized the anthem for its religious focus, no concerted effort has been made to change it. Geoff Macpherson, principal of Grace Theological College in Auckland, believes this is because New Zealanders are reserved in their patriotism. Meanwhile, among Christians, most feel proud and happy that our anthem is so blatantly Christian, Macpherson said. Will Warden, pastor of Tawa Baptist Church in Wellington, describes the anthems first verse as an acknowledgment of Gods sovereignty. God isnt just God of Israel or New Zealand, he is the God of all nations and cultures. Today, the anthem is usually sung first in Maori, then in English. Macpherson believes the Maori translation has endeared the anthem to Kiwis: Anything in the indigenous language of a people brings it closer to their hearts. God Be with Our Suriname God be with our Suriname May He elevate our lovely land How we came here together We are dedicated to its soil Working we keep in mind Justice and truth will set free All that is good to devote oneself to Will give value to our land (Translated from Dutch) A former Dutch colony, Suriname is the smallest country in South America and mostly covered by rainforests. Pastor Cornelis Atses Hoekstra initially penned God Be with Our Suriname in Dutch for his Sunday school class in 1893. Later, the poet Henri Frans de Ziel translated the lyrics into Surinames native language of Sranan Tongo. The government officially adopted it as the national anthem in December 1959. Similar to the experience of its neighborsFrench Guiana to the east, and Guyana to the westSuriname first heard the gospel through their Dutch colonizers. Today, about half of the countrys population identifies as Christian. Yet the Dutch also brought enslaved Africans to the country. Some Surinamese take issue with the Christian themes of the anthem because of these historic ties to colonialism and slavery. Gerno Odang, a speaker and visual artist who promotes Afro-Surinamese culture, noted that, while he respects other religions, Christianity was used as a tool to enslave people before and during the slave trade and even afterward, pointing to the experience of the Maroons, descendants of Africans in the Americas who fled plantation slavery. Rebrouf Sanvisi, worship leader at Christ Embassy Suriname church in the capital of Paramaribo, said that whenever Christians like him sing the anthem, it gives them a sense of hope, trust, and confidence, knowing that the highest power in the universe is standing with us. And if he is with us, who or what can be against us? he adds, referring to Romans 8:31. O Land of Beauty! (Saint Kitts and Nevis) O Land of Beauty! Our country where peace abounds, Thy children stand free On the strength of will and love. With God in all our struggles, Saint Kitts and Nevis be, A nation bound together, With a common destiny. In early 1983, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, an island nation in the eastern Caribbean, held a competition to select a national anthem months before it attained full independence from the UK. Artist and musician Kenrick Georges decided to write and compose an entry at 2 a.m. on the day of the deadlineMarch 31and completed it at 6 a.m., according to local media. An hour later, he asked a piano teacher to play it for him, and he submitted a recording of the song on a cassette tape later that day. The subcommittee for the competition chose his song, noting that it would stand the test of time, and in September, it became the national anthem. In a tribute to Georges, who died in 2019, former prime minister Timothy Harrison called the song a deeply moving and magnificent ode to the countrys beauty and tranquility. About 75 percent of the countrys small population of around 50,000 identify as Christian, as the British brought the gospel with them as they settled in the country in 1624. The St. Kitts Evangelical Association is a founding member of the Evangelical Association of the Caribbean, which represents five million evangelicals in the region. Himno Nacional del Peru We are free! May we always be so, may we always be so! And may the Sun renounce its light, its light, its light, Before we break the solemn vow that the Fatherland lifted up to the Eternal, Before we break the solemn vow that the Fatherland lifted up to the Eternal. (Translated from Spanish) In August 1821, following Perus declaration of independence from Spain, the countrys Argentinian liberator Jose de San Martin invited the general public to send in submissions for Perus national anthem. As the new government was bankrupt at the time, it could only offer the countrys gratitude as a prize. A young Dominican friar, Jose Bernardo Alcedo, who had written hymns for Mass, submitted two compositions, with the lyrics written by his lawyer friend Jose de la Torre Ugarte. Alcedo was amongst the finalists, and he presented both compositions to San Martin. After hearing the melody of the second song, San Martin said, Without a doubt, this is the national anthem. The explicit mention of God in the lyrics can be found in its final stanza. The English translation of its last line reads, Lets renew the great oath that we rendered to the God of Jacob. While there have been many attempts to change the wording of the original anthem, the issue has been the songs emphasis on the Peruvian struggle for freedom, rather than its mention of God, as about 76 percent of Perus population is Catholic. National Anthem of South Africa (South Africa) Lord bless Africa May her glory be lifted high Hear our petitions Lord bless us, your children (Translated from Xhoso and Zulu) One of only three anthems in the world that start in one key and end in another, the South African national anthem fuses together two songs: the Xhosa hymn Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika (God Bless Africa) and the Afrikaans song Die Stem van Suid-Afrika (The Call of South Africa). The anthem, which also incorporates five South African languages, signifies a call to unity after the end of apartheid. Enoch Mankayi Sontonga, a Xhosa teacher and choirmater at a Methodist mission school, composed Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika in 1897 as a school anthem. The song, which reflects both Methodist hymnody and African praise singing, was first performed publicly in 1899 at the ordination of John Hlengani Mboweni, the first Tsonga Methodist pastor. The song gained popularity as it was sung to close the 1912 meeting of the South African Native National Congress (now the African National Congress), the liberation movement seeking to advance the rights of black South Africans. The congress adopted the song as its official anthem in 1925, causing it to be banned during apartheid. Meanwhile, poet C. J. Langenhoven wrote Die Stem van Suid-Afrika in 1918, and three years later, Dutch Reformed pastor Marthinus Lourens de Villiers composed its melody. It became the national anthem in 1938, alongside God Save the King. In 1994, before Nelson Mandelas inauguration as president, State President F. W. de Klerk declared that both songs would be the countrys national anthems. Three years into his administration, Mandela declared a new official national anthem that combined shortened versions of both songs. The declaration of trust [in God] is the first and most important component of the South African National Anthem, wrote Morakeng E. K. Lebaka, an African musical arts researcher at the University of South Africa. The second element is the invitation to trust and to unite, addressed to the community (South Africans). Four other African countries have historically adopted Sontongas Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika as their national anthem: Zambia, Tanzania, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Zambia and Tanzania still use the melody for their anthems. A Christian community in Nigeria is threatened by the impact of climate change on the Atlantic Ocean. Ayetoro was founded to be a city on a hill. Now its facing a watery apocalypse. AP Photo/Dan Ikpoyi Thompson Akingboye is old enough to remember a time when the ocean was not a threat to his home in the coastal town of Ayetoro in Nigerias southwestern Ondo State. That was back in 1997, when he was just nine years old. But in the 2000s, the storm surges began, and then everything changed. Homes, factories, schools, and maternity clinics built up over the towns long history began to be slowly consumed by the water. 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. Ayetoro, meaning happy city in Yoruba, is home to more than 10,000 people. It is a theocratic Christian fishing community. Since it was founded in 1947, it has been run by the Ogeloyinbo, or traditional ruler, who is also the head of the towns charismatic Holy Apostles Community Church. Today, even that church, around which much of the towns communal life revolves, has been impacted. It has had to be moved three times in recent years, and the waves are lapping ever closer to its present location. Our common prayer in the church is seeking Gods intervention to touch the heart of the government to answer our plight, Akingboye, now 36 and the spokesman for the towns youth congress, told CT. That intervention would involve reclaiming the land that has already been lost to the sea and building up levees, dikes, and seawalls that can withstand the waves, experts say. Ayetoros people are historically self-sufficient, but a project this big is beyond the abilities of even its most able artisans, Akingboye said. Appeals have been made at every level of government: local, regional, and state. No tangible respite has come, he said. The land continues to be eroded, houses continued to collapse into the sea, people continued to die. It appears to be a problem afflicting other communities along Nigerias 528-mile-long coastline. Thousands of reclamation and shoreline protection projects have reportedly been awarded to contractorsbut then abandoned. At least two projects meant to shore up Ayetoros own defenses have been in planning since 2004, yet nothing has materialized, locals say. The consequences of inaction have been devastating. Video footage posted by Akingboye on Facebook last December shows waves breaking and swirling around large slabs of shattered concrete, while the skeletal frames of buildings protrude from the sea. The youth leader estimates around 5,000 residentsnearly half the towns populationhave been displaced. Some have moved to stay with relatives in neighboring communities. Others have had to make do in Ayetoro. Rooms meant for three people now accommodate ten. People have become refugees in their own town, he said. Tragically, lives have also been lost. More than 30 residents have died in storm surges that hit the town in 2010, 2016, 2019, and then again, most recently, in April 2023. The victims have been mostly children and the elderly, asleep when the storms struck at night. Some elderly residents have also died from the distress of losing property they dont have the means to replace, Akingboye said. More than half a century ago, things in Ayetoro looked very different. Without any state support, the community established factories to produce bread, shoes, ice and textiles. It had a dockyardthe nations firstand there were workshops and sawmills, a technical college, as well as community-run supermarkets, laundry houses, and maternity centers. Ayetoro was founded as a religious community, where everyone would belong to the same church, praying and celebrating Communion together, and those who violated a strict ethical code would be kicked out. Holy Apostles is part of the Aladura movement, which broke from Anglicanism in the 1920s over the power of prayer and possibility of divine healing today. Ayetoro had utopian visions of becoming a Nigerian city on a hill. And for a while, it was. Visitors flocked in from Nigeria and abroad. Then the search for oil brought disaster. Ayetoro lived in peace and serenity until our oil attracted the government, Akingboye said. The land was distorted; the sea rose and began to intrude into the town. Oluwambe Ojagbohunmi, the traditional ruler of Ayetoro and the spiritual head of its church, shares this view. Apart from climate change, oil exploration is the major factor behind the ocean surge, he said. Our oil resource has gone to make others wealthy and build big cities in the state and federal capitals, while we that have the oil are left to be washed into the ocean. While marine geoscientists say offshore oil extraction can cause the land to sink, the crisis in Ayetoro is not unique. Much of West Africas coastline, a magnet for development and economic activity, is vulnerable to the converging crises of rising seas, fast-growing populations, land pressure, and a lack of low-cost housing. The increasing population of coastal communities is posing a threat to natural barriers and ecosystems, exposing them to storm surges and flooding, one study says. Taiwo Ogunwumi, a Nigerian flood risk consultant based in the Netherlands, says the root cause of the sea level rise affecting Ayetoro is triggered by processes happening far from its shores: melting ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica. NASA, which monitors those ice sheets via its GRACE satellite missions, estimates that both are losing hundreds of billions of tons of ice per year. The meltwaters are responsible for a third of global sea-level rise since 1993, according to the American government agency. Local oil extraction offshore of Ayetoro is, however, also aggravating the situation, notes Ogunwumi. The industrial activities of the oil-producing companies concentrated in Ayetoro contribute to the release of carbon dioxide emissions, he told CT. In addition to the gray infrastructure needed for frontline coastal defenses, Ogunwumi recommends nature-based solutions such as restoring wetlands, coral reefs, marshes, and mangroves that can help buffer against coastal flooding. Amid this ecological crisis, Ayetoros pastors and leaders persist in preaching good news. As a watery apocalypse rises to consume their city, the faithful are urged to turn to the Lord. Most of our preaching now is to encourage the people that help will come one day, Akingboye said. There is nothing impossible for God to do. Home News Church of England vicar not obligated to resign despite no-confidence vote A Church of England vicar is not obligated to step down despite a congregation's vote of no confidence after his actions allegedly caused attendance to "plummet," the diocese says. St. Leonard's Church in Buckinghamshire recently held a vote to call for the resignation of the Rev. Christopher Haywood, with 21 voting in favor and none voting against, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. "[I]t cannot be ignored that in the last three years, under his ministry the church has gone from being a central point in village life to being viewed as insular and detached," the motion of no confidence reads. "We have no confidence in his continued ministry in this parish." 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 A churchgoer told LDRS that the vote came after Haywood refused to allow a church warden's funeral. Since then, the congregation numbers have "plummeted." The Diocese of Oxford said the vote was "not legally binding," which means that Haywood is not obligated to depart. Haywood has led St. Leonard's, a small congregation near Wendover Woods, and three other Buckinghamshire churches since 2021. He was appointed to the position by the bishop of Buckingham. He previously served as the curate in the Benefice of Hugglescote with Donington, Ellistown and Snibston. "This vote is not legally binding and the vicar, the Rev. Chris Haywood, is not obliged to leave," the diocese stated. "The diocese is working with all parties concerned to bring about the best resolution to this breakdown in relationships." At the no-confidence vote meeting attended by 40 people, Haywood reportedly defended his decision not to allow the funeral of Anne Butterworth to take place even though she served the church as a warden for over three decades. One unnamed congregant told LRDS that Haywood would not allow the funeral because she wanted another minister to conduct the service. Members also claim that Haywood has not responded timely to requests for baptisms and burials. Haywood has not commented publicly about the situation. Home News ERLC urges DEA not to loosen restrictions on marijuana The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention has asked the Drug Enforcement Administration to continue identifying marijuana as a dangerous substance. In public comments filed last week, the ERLC implored the DEA to retain marijuanas classification as a schedule I substance under the Controlled Substance Act, expressing concern over a possible reclassification of the drug. The ERLC is deeply concerned about the rescheduling of marijuana as the use of marijuana generally harms public health and undermines a well-functioning society, wrote ERLC President Brent Leatherwood in the public comment. 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 It has been well documented that marijuana has substantial health hazards associated with usage. The National Institute on Drug Abuse2 has highlighted several adverse effects such as impairment in learning, memory and attention. Moreover, it has been associated with an increased heart rate and a higher risk of heart attack. The drug is also more addictive than is assumed, with an estimated 10% of users becoming addicted. Leatherwood noted that while reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III status retains the illegal nature of this drug, it also removes the emphasis on the addictive nature. However, marijuana remains a highly addictive substance, and the FDA has never approved a marketing application for marijuana for the treatment of any disease or condition, he continued. For the sake of our most vulnerable neighbors, we must continue to educate the American public that marijuana use is dangerous, destructive and addictive. Anything short of a Schedule I categorization for marijuana is a failure in the governments duty to protect its citizens. In May, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a proposed rule to reclassify marijuana from a schedule I to schedule III substance, thus loosening restrictions on the drug. At present, 38 states, the District of Columbia and four federal territories have legalized the use of medical marijuana, while 24 states allow for recreational use. Biden administration Attorney General Merrick Garland wrote in the proposed rule that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concluded that the public-health risks posed by marijuana are lower compared to those posed by other drugs of abuse. HHS thus concluded that although abuse of marijuana produces clear evidence of a risk to public health, that risk is relatively lower than that posed by most other comparator drugs, wrote Garland. [W]hen comparing marijuana to heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, cocaine, ketamine, benzodiazepines, zolpidem, tramadol, and alcohol in various epidemiological databases that allow for some or all of these comparisons, marijuana is not typically among the substances producing the most frequent incidence of adverse outcomes or severity of substance use disorder. Marijuana was classified as a schedule I substance in 1970. A previous effort to reclassify marijuana in 2016 failed. In October 2022, President Joe Biden issued a pardon for thousands of Americans who had been convicted for the "simple possession of marijuana." Home News Kamala Harris called her pastor on night of presidential run Vice President Kamala Harris reached out to her longtime pastor, the Rev. Amos C. Brown, following President Joe Bidens announcement of not seeking reelection, according to reports, which say she requested the pastor to pray for her presidential run. After the service at the Third Baptist Church of San Francisco last Sunday, Brown, who has led the congregation since 1976, received a call from Harris, Sojourners reported. She said to me, Pastor, I called because I want you to pray for me, [my husband] Doug, this country and the race I am intending to run for president, the pastor was quoted as saying. Brown, a seasoned civil rights activist and an influential figure in the African American community, shared his favorite Bible verse, Micah 6:8, while speaking to Harris, who is preparing to potentially become the first female commander-in-chief. The pastor reportedly urged her to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your maker. 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 Brown has reportedly known Harris for over two decades. His connection to Harris is deeply personal, which she has publicly acknowledged in speeches. Brown has faced criticism in the past for controversial remarks, even from some prominent Democrats. Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attack that killed over 3,000 Americans, Brown appeared to suggest that the U.S. government's actions should get some of the blame. "America, is there anything you did to set up this climate?" he said in a speech at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, SF Gate reported at the time. "What did you do either intentionally or unintentionally in the world order, in Central America, in Africa where bombs are still blasting? America, what did you do in the global warming conference when you did not embrace the smaller nations? America, what did you do two weeks ago when I stood at the world conference on racism, when you wouldn't show up?" The comment appeared to draw the ire of Rep. Nancy Pelosi, R-Calif, a former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, who said during the event that the U.S. will "not take responsibility" for the act of terrorism. As The Washington Free Beacon notes, Brown also served as a delegate to the 2001 United Nations World Conference Against Racism and is known for equating Zionism with racism. The U.S. and Israel walked out of the conference over its condemnation of Israel, alleging that a conference celebrating tolerance was being driven by hatred toward Israel. Brown is also a member of the California Reparations Task Force, which has called for "billionaires in San Francisco, to make payments to the descendants of slaves, The New York Times reported in May. The vice presidents religious and cultural background is diverse. Her mother is Hindu and father is Baptist. She represents a lot of Americans religious story, because heres the thing: Nobody grows up in a straight line with religion in America anymore, National Catholic Register quoted Anthea Butler, a professor of religion at the University of Pennsylvania, as saying. Butler observed that, more often, individuals are selecting their own religious identities, which might shift again as they engage in interfaith marriages and support partners from different religious backgrounds. This dynamic is also evident in J.D. Vance, the Republican Party vice presidential nominee, who transitioned from Protestantism to atheism and then to Catholicism after marrying his wife, a Hindu, in 2019. At the Republican National Convention, his wife, Usha Vance, discussed how he embraced her familys vegetarian lifestyle. Vance himself shared how her influence has deepened his commitment to his Catholic faith. Several religious leaders have expressed support for Harris candidacy. The Rev. Freddie D. Haynes III, a pastor who has known Harris for over 30 years, praised her understanding that Jesus and justice go together. The Rev. Michael McBride, a pastor and longtime supporter of Harris and who co-founded the Black Church PAC, said he would expect an end to the Israel-Hamas war if she wins the presidential race. The support for Harris also comes at a time when her campaign is engaging with voters through platforms like memes and social media to connect with younger demographics. However, Harris has faced controversies. In the early 1990s, Harris, then 29, was having an affair with Willie Brown, the 60-year-old former mayor of San Francisco who had been separated from his wife since the 1980s, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. During their relationship, Brown helped launch Harris political career by appointing her to two significant positions in 1994: the California Medical Assistance Commission and the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board. However, Harris has sought to distance herself from Brown, particularly due to corruption allegations against him. In a 2003 interview with SF Weekly, Harris referred to Brown as an albatross hanging around my neck, and stated that any corruption would be prosecuted. Home News Pro-life activist seeks to appeal prison sentence for blockading abortion clinic A pro-life activist who has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for blockading a New York City abortion clinic is seeking to raise money so she can appeal the decision. The United States Department of Justice announced in a statement Wednesday that Bevelyn Beatty Williams was sentenced to 41 months in prison for standing at the entrance of a New York City abortion clinic over a two-day period in 2020. The sentencing comes five months after a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York found Williams guilty of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The federal law, which took effect three decades ago, subjects anyone who by force or threat of force or by physical obstruction, intentionally injures, intimidates or interferes with or attempts to injure, intimidate or interfere with any person because that person seeks to obtain or provide reproductive health services to federal charges. 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 U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams, Bevelyn Beatty Williams repeatedly intimidated and interfered with individuals seeking and providing critical reproductive health services. She did so by physically blocking access to clinics, threatening staff, and by force. This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to ensuring that patients exercising their legal right to obtain reproductive health services, and healthcare facilities and their staff providing those services, can do so without unlawful interference or fear of threats or violence, he added. The DOJ elaborated on Williams' actions and how they led to her prison sentence. The law enforcement agency alleged that on June 19 and June 20, 2020, Williams threatened and used force against patients and staff members at a reproductive health center located in lower Manhattan (the Health Center) and blocked patients and staff members from accessing the Health Center. The DOJ maintained that In one instance, and as captured on video, Williams pressed her body against the door of the Health Centers patient entrance and refused to move, preventing a Health Center volunteer from entering the Health Center. As a Health Center staff member (Victim-1) attempted to open the door for the volunteer, Williams purposefully leaned against the door, crushing Victim-1s hand. Victim-1 yelled, Shes crushing my hand, but Williams remained against the door, trapping Victim-1s hand and injuring it, the DOJ asserted. At various times on June 19 and 20, 2020, Williams stood directly in front of the Health Center entrances. It continued, Williams initially blocked the main entrance used by patients, causing the Health Center to have to divert patients to enter through the staff entrance. Williams responded by moving to block the staff entrance and directing others to do the same. The DOJ also expressed concern about comments made by Williams during the blockade, specifically her vow to terrorize this place, by using any means necessary, and bringing up the prospect of war and insistence that your business is gonna be over. For her part, Williams has signaled her intention to appeal her sentence. She has set up a GiveSendGo fundraiser seeking to raise $250,000 in support of a fight for freedom, noting that she has 60 days to appeal. Williams contends that I was persecuted as a Christian standing for my beliefs when it comes to life. This is devastating news, she wrote. Not only is this bond extensive for the accused crime, but [Judge Jennifer Rochan] made it very clear in the courtroom that she was going to [make an] example out of me. The concern of being a young mother, and a stay-at-home mother, was completely disregarded. She told me before sentencing that I was young and that I would not be defined by my sentence, before making a conscious decision to take me away from my 2-year-old daughter for three years. As of Monday morning, Williams fundraiser has raised just over $49,000. Williams reflected on her challenging journey in a Facebook post unveiling the GiveSendGo fundraiser Thursday: In times like these, I am reminded of the strength that comes from our faith in Christ and the importance of standing firm against injustice. Describing the severe persecution she has faced for standing up for the unborn as unjust and harsh, Williams lamented that her sentence was a blatant attack on my beliefs and rights as a mother and wife that was designed to discourage others from following a similar path. She declared that I believe that now, more than ever, we must unite as a Christian community to defend our freedoms. Williams said she intends to use the money raised from the fundraiser to hire a skilled lawyer and assembling a team to fight for justice and uphold our religious liberties. She encouraged supporters to join me in prayer and action as we seek to petition Heaven and stand boldly for righteousness. Pro-life activists have called for the U.S. Congress to repeal the FACE Act, which they classify as part of an effort to chill pro-life activism. Randall Terry, founder of the pro-life advocacy group Operation Rescue and the Constitution Partys 2024 presidential nominee, told The Christian Post in a recent interview that between 1987 and 1994, we accumulated over 75,000 arrests around the country for peacefully blockading abortion clinics, much like what Williams tried to do in New York City four years ago. We would sit there, 100, 200, 500 people and not let anyone in, he recalled. We closed them for the whole day and saved the babies that were scheduled to die that day. While participants in abortion clinic blockades previously found themselves subject to local trespass charges, they wound up facing a federal misdemeanor for the first offense and a federal felony for the second offense after the FACE Act was passed. Terry expressed disappointment that once that law was passed, it effectively broke the back of our movement, detailing how then-Attorney General Janet Reno identified working to break the back of Operation Rescue as one of her top priorities. Home News Tom Lane, ex-Gateway Church executive pastor, says he didnt know Cindy Clemishire was abused at 12 Tom Lane, a former executive pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, who first responded to allegations from Cindy Clemishire, 54, that she was sexually abused by the megachurchs founder, Robert Morris, says he wasn't aware that the abuse began when she was 12. In a statement released in June, shortly after she went public with her allegations against Morris that forced his abrupt resignation, Clemishire pointed to her communication with Lane in 2005 to bolster her claim that Gateway Church officials were aware that Morris had abused her as a child beginning when she was 12, and lasting for four-and-a-half years after that. "The leadership at Gateway received actual notice of this crime in 2005 when I sent an email directly to Robert Morris' Gateway email address. Former Gateway elder, Tom Lane, received and responded to my email, acknowledging that the sexual abuse began on December 25, 1982, when I was 12 years old," Clemishire said in the statement released by her attorney Boz Tchividjian. 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 "Again in 2007, my then attorney Gentner Drummond (the current Attorney General of Oklahoma) sent a letter to Robert Morris with the hope that he would help reimburse me for the thousands of dollars I had expended in counseling as a result of this abuse. His attorney acknowledged the dates as well and then attempted to blame me for the abuse," she insisted. "At the very least, both the Gateway pastor and at least one elder had specific notice that I was sexually abused beginning when I was 12 years old. Gateway had the information but intentionally decided to embrace the false narrative Robert Morris wanted to believe." Richard Harmer, a spokesperson for Lane, told The Christian Post on Monday that the statement is a bit misleading, as at no time was it stated in any communication that Lane had with Clemishire that she was 12 when Morris began sexually abusing her. The statement in question suggests that the phrase when I was 12 was included in the email Tom received from Robert Morris's assistant in 2005. While Tom knew the year and exact date, he had no reference to Cindys age in 2005, nor was he aware a crime was committed, Harmer explained to CP. The way this has been written implies that when I was 12 years old was in the email, which is not accurate. Although this is how Cindys attorney wrote it, we feel strongly about clarifying the statement, Harmer added. He said Lane is still being accused of knowing Clemishires age at the time the abuse started but she had cut him off before he could learn those details. Tom did make an effort to connect with Cindy and perhaps if that happened, her age and the crime would have come up. Unfortunately, Cindy declined to engage further with Tom at that time, Harmer said. Tom is deeply distressed and feels terrible Cindy has endured this pain over the last 35 + years. He profoundly regrets not having more information back then. Asked by CP to respond to Lanes clarification of her statement, Clemishire called it unacceptable. Any excuse and putting the blame back on me is unacceptable as an elder and overseer of the church, she told CP in a statement. With the information Tom Lane had, he could have easily researched and found my age at the time the abuse started. After Clemishire publicly alleged in June that Morris abused her as a preteen girl, Morris, 62, admitted to CP in an earlier statement that he had engaged in "inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady" while he was a pastor at another church in his early 20s. But he did not name his accuser or disclose her age at the time. In their initial response to the allegations against Morris, elders at Gateway Church told CP that they believed Morris was fully transparent about his past and that he had been biblically restored to ministry after allegedly stepping away for two years. He reported in his 2011 book, Dream to Destiny, that he returned to ministry just one month after the "Lord orchestrated the circumstances for me to step out of ministry." At the time, Morris admitted he was struggling with pride. In announcing Morris resignation from Gateway Church on June 18, elders admitted they did not have all the facts when they first defended him from the allegations. "Regretfully, prior to Friday, June 14, the elders did not have all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse. The elders' prior understanding was that Morris's extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with 'a young lady' and not abuse of a 12-year-old child," the elders explained. "Even though it occurred many years before Gateway was established, as leaders of the church, we regret that we did not have the information that we now have. We are heartbroken and appalled by what has come to light over the past few days, and we express our deep sympathy to the victim and her family," the elders added. In the announcement of Morris' resignation, Gateway Church elders said they have retained the law firm of Haynes & Boone, LLP to "conduct an independent, thorough, and professional review of the report of past abuse to ensure we have a complete understanding of the events from 1982-1987." Tra Willbanks, a longtime Gateway Church elder and father of seven, including six girls, said in an update to the church over the weekend that the investigation remained underway as they formally announced to the congregation that they had decided to mutually cut ties with Morris son, James, and his wife, Bridgette. He also issued a second public apology to Clemishire for how the church first responded to her claims against Morris. Cindy, in case you are watching, we want to again apologize to you on behalf of our entire church for the years of pain that you have endured. We are sorry for our initial communication which was clearly incorrect, you were a child not a young lady, Willbanks said. Additionally, two weeks ago, Gateway released a statement saying that this was an inappropriate relationship. This statement was not correct either. To be clear we believe that this was sexual abuse of a child. Any description falling short of that does not reflect our position. I'm sorry that we got that communication wrong. We are in no way attempting to cover up or minimize this situation. In fact, I would like to say to you, Cindy, thank you for coming forward. Home Opinion Ranting at God the right way As Ive listened to Christian music in the car over the past couple of weeks, I realized something Ive not noticed before. About 70-80% of the music is what I would call songs of lament. For example, take this opening set of lyrics from a song by Casting Crowns: I was sure by now, God you would have reached down And wiped our tears away, Stepped in and saved the day. But once again, I say amen And it's still raining. 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 Or this one: Here I am, Lord, and I'm drowning In Your sea of forgetfulness The chains of yesterday surround me I yearn for peace and rest. I could give more examples, but you get the idea. Seemingly endless expressions of pain, sorrow, loss, and for good reason. As Jesus said, In the world you have tribulation (John 16:33). Such tribulation can weigh on a person over time. Does it you? When we express such feelings to God, sometimes blended into our prayers is a subtle accusatory tone that faults Him for whats happening and wonders why our cries seem to fall on divine deaf ears. We end up in a place described by Professor John L. Thompson who said: Namely, that the Christian life looks a lot more like humiliation and rejection than it does like triumph and glory. And that feeling can get old, fast. When it does, it can lead to irritation, anger, and a ranting prayer life that seems taboo in the Christian faith. But should it be? Fist-shaking at God J. Todd Billings says no. At age 39, Billings, a professor at Western Theological Seminary, was diagnosed with an incurable blood cancer, Multiple Myeloma. His battle with cancer led him to write a book entitled Rejoicing in Lament, where he explores a provocative question: is it ever OK to outright vent at God? Many Christians say no. They maintain that whatever comes our way, we are not to utter any words of disapproval at God but instead exhibit a stoic attitude through each trial, considering it all joy (James 1:2), even if its done through gritted teeth. But Billings notes that we see something remarkably different in Scripture, especially in the Psalms. He notes that while psalms of singular thanksgiving and praise to God are certainly found in the Bible, they are rarer in the book of Psalms than ones of lament. Betcha didnt think that was the case, did you? Moreover, these lamenting psalms arent shy at pointing the finger at God for the trouble the author is experiencing. Just look at part of Psalm 66: You brought us into the net; You laid an oppressive burden upon our loins. You made men ride over our heads (vv.1112, my emphasis). Or how about Psalm 88: You have put me in the lowest pit You have afflicted me with all Your waves. You have removed my acquaintances far from me; You have made me an object of loathing to them I suffer Your terrors; I am overcome. Your burning anger has passed over me; Your terrors have destroyed me (vv. 6-8, 1516, my emphasis). Odd, isnt it, how so many of us work at a fever pitch to not make God out to be the efficient cause of our troubles, but the psalms of lament say something completely different. And so, because of that tension, rarely are those psalms read from the pulpit. But the Church has done a disservice when these expressions of pain are hidden from it. Carl Trueman says this about losing the psalms of lament in Christian worship: By excluding the cries of loneliness, dispossession, and desolation from its worship, the church has effectively silenced and excluded the voices of those who are themselves lonely, dispossessed, and desolate, both inside and outside the Church. By doing so, it has implicitly endorsed the banal aspirations of consumerism. That result has some terrible, practical applications. Billings says how most believers hes encountered cannot talk to him when he brings up his cancer battle: Ive found that my fellow Christians know how to rejoice about answered prayer and also how to petition God for help, but many dont know what to do when I express sorrow and loss or talk about death. Heres an uncomfortable question for you: Would you know what to do or say to Todd in one of his many moments of grief? As part of Christs body, we need that ability. So how do we get better at all this? The first step is to understand that God put those psalms in His book for a reason to show us that crying out to Him is not sinful, but rather an expression of faith. Notice that the psalms of lament have the author running not away from God, but to Him for help. By contrast, total despair that lacks hope does not pray. We are not to grieve as do the rest who have no hope (1 Thess. 4:13), but instead in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Phil. 4:6). Next, realize that venting out our true feelings to God isnt sinful. As an example, many overlook the fact that at the end of the book of Job, after all of Jobs outbursts, God chastises Jobs friends and says, My wrath is kindled against you and against your two friends, because you have not spoken of Me what is right as My servant Job has (Job 42:7, my emphasis). Miroslav Volf says this about Jobs rants and the psalms of lament: rage belongs before God ... not in the reflectively managed and manicured form of a confession, but as a pre-reflective outburst from the depths of the soul. This is no mere cathartic discharge of pent-up aggression before the Almighty who ought to care. Much more significantly, by placing unattended rage before God we place both our unjust enemy and our own vengeful self - face to face with a God who loves and does justice. Lastly, we should remember that, like in Job, we dont always have all the answers that confusion over hard circumstances is something experienced constantly in life. Moreover, the overwhelming anguish we feel when we think hard times are a punishment from God should be countered with the fact that the vast majority of lament psalms do not assume that God is punishing or disciplining us for sin through suffering. Those things being true, as is often the case in the lament psalms, Billings says, [Our] final declaration of trust is not dependent on having ones situation fixed or immediately resolved. Rather it looks to the end and says with Abraham, Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just? (Gen. 18:25). So, if youre hurting right now, go ahead, rant at God, and tell Him how you really feel. The broken and the lonely and the hurting always have a place before Him. And that includes you and me. Home News Can single pastors date within their congregation? John Piper answers Theologian and author John Piper suggested that it can be appropriate for single pastors to date within their congregations, stressing that religious leaders should be transparent in their desires and allow congregation leaders to assist them in finding the right person to marry. In an episode of his podcast "Ask Pastor John" posted on Desiring God's website last week, Piper fielded a question from a listener who identified himself as a 23-year-old single pastoral intern. The listener said, "due to the busy amount of work and school, I meet very few women outside of my church," and yet, "I hesitate to date inside my church due to my position on the pastoral team." 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 "What's your advice for someone in my situation? Is it appropriate for pastors to use dating apps? And if this is even remotely possible, how would a pastor wisely date within his own church?" wrote the listener. Listen to "Ask Pastor John" and all your favorite Christian podcasts on edifi Single pastors looking to date should "believe in the providence of God," Piper said. He advised them to "be realistic, mature, and candid with your fellow church leaders." "Finding a compatible Christian spouse ought to be a practical community project involving family and church, not a secretive solitary quest. Just get over that. That's not the way you need to think about it," said Piper, the chancellor at Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who pastored Bethlehem Baptist Church for over 33 years. "Ask your leaders for their counsel. Ask them to keep their eyes open in regards to their near and far networks. My wife kept her eyes open at our church for husbands, for example, for her sisters. And she introduced three of her sisters to the men they married at our church, and she did it very intentionally." He urged young pastors to seek "ministry-minded women." "The next thing I would say to this young pastor or aspiring pastor is that if a woman is put off by the thought of being a part of your full-time ministry, shes not the right woman," he said. "You want a woman who will not just tolerate your calling, your burden, your passion, your risks in ministry, but a woman who loves the thought of throwing her life into that with you. This is what God has been making her to be. She wants to share that kind of life, walking on the edge of eternity with all of its difficulties and risks and challenges." Piper also recommended doing "various ministry ventures" such as "short-term mission trips" and "educational tours where the nature of the venture might be self-selecting." "In all these ministries that you go on, they might be self-selecting for the kind of woman that would go on it too. Lots of couples meet because they follow their ministry heart on some venture and discover each other in the process," he said. While not opposed to having single pastors use a dating app to find a spouse, Piper warned his listeners that using such a resource might be problematic because it is secretive. "It seems to me that a pastor is a fairly public person, and the secrecy surrounding the use of dating apps could tarnish your reputation as one who wants to be totally candid with his church and especially with his leaders," said Piper. "I would give preference to the open networks that you have rather than to secret ones." The question of dating while being a pastor has been subject of conversation in years past, with pastor and public speaker Dawrell Rich offering some advice on the issue in a 2016 blog post. Rich noted that he "made a conscious decision to exclude my parishioners from the dating pool" and that he "chose to entertain dating relationships with people who were not within the worship community I served and had little ties to it." "Even if a respected senior member lovingly introduced me to their educated, professional, sweet granddaughter, I'd make her acquaintance but move on," he wrote. "I learned that, for some, being able to say they made a love connection for the pastor was an ego boost and a way to indirectly influence pastoral decisions." Home News Transformation Worship earns No. 1 on Billboards Top Gospel Albums chart Transformation Worship, a band birthed out of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, led by megachurch pastor Michael Todd, has earned its second No. 1 on Billboard's Top Gospel Albums chart. Transformation Worship released its first album, Overflow, in May through REPRESENT Records, opening at Nos. 1 and 2 on Top Gospel Albums and Top Christian Albums, respectively. The band achieved its second No. 1 on Billboard's Top Gospel Albums list in as many appearances with the album Dominion. Released on July 12, the album also debuted as the runner-up on Billboad's Top Christian Albums list. 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 album includes singles such as "Dominion," "Look at My Fruit" and "Yours." According to Billboard, Dominion earned 5,000 units in its opening week. According to the church's website, each track delivers "a message of empowerment and resilience against any attempts to silence or diminish one's calling." Transformation Worship first hit the national scene with the viral success of its single "Overflow," which was first heard at the 2022 V02 Conference held at Transformation Church. Todd, a bestselling author and pastor, assumed stewardship of Transformation Church's music ministry in 2010, according to an April press release announcing the band's forthcoming album. Since then, worship at the church, founded in 1999, has "continually evolved, guided by a prophetic vision of global impact." "Transformation Church invites those around the world to join them on the journey of spiritual transformation, where worship transcends mere ritual to become a lifestyle," the press statement reads. In other Billboard news, Elevation Worship, a contemporary Christian music collective birthed out of Steven Furtick's Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, achieved its eighth No. 1 on Billboard's Top Christian Albums chart with When Wind Meets Fire. Released on July 12, the set earned 8,000 equivalent album units in the United States up to July 18, according to Luminate. The album was recorded live over two nights at Elevation Church in May 2023 and March 2024. "We're so grateful and honored to have this new album hit No. 1," the act's frontman, Chris Brown, told Billboard. "Our hope is that these songs will continue helping people encounter God's presence just like they have for our church over the past year." This is Elevation Worship's eighth Top Christian Albums leader and first since Can You Imagine? in June 2023. The band has the most No. 1 Top Christian Albums. In May 2021, Elevation Worship collaborated with Maverick City Music to produce the Old Church Basement, which won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album in 2022. The collective achieved its first No. 1 in March 2013 with Nothing Is Wasted. Elevation Worship also found success with its song "Praise" featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Brown and Chandler Moore. In March, the song rose to No. 1 in its 42nd week on Billboard's streaming-, airplay- and sales-based Hot Christian Songs chart. The song was co-written by Brown, Lake, Moore, Pat Barret, Cody Carnes and Furtick. "It is such an honor to be No. 1 again," Brown told Billboard at the time. "We're blown away by what God has done with 'Praise,' and we're thankful for everyone who has streamed, tuned in and shared the song. We hope it is a great reminder of all the reasons to praise God not just for what He's done, but for who He is." Home News Venezuela's Maduro claims victory amid widespread criticism of intransparent presidential election After more than six hours of waiting following the closing of the polling stations, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela (CNE) announced the results for Sunday's presidential election. According to the CNE, with 80% of the tables counted, the official leader Nicolas Maduro purportedly obtained 51.20% of the votes, while the opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez received 44.2%. The results were widely criticized as very unlikely and lacking transparency. The results, therefore, suggest that Maduro has been reelected for a second six-year term as president of Venezuela and would govern until 2031. 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 a triumphant speech, Maduro said the people's will had been fulfilled and, true to his populist style, he started by praising God. My first thought goes to the Father Creator our Father who art in Heaven, thank you for giving this victory to the people of Venezuela, Maduro said after the CNE announced the results. In his remarks, Maduro said the people of Venezuela are a Christian people. We are the people of Christ, and added, I want to thank all the Christians for their prayers, for their blessings, for their love. Immediately after Maduro's speech, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado spoke out, along with opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. Machado said the results according to the data received by her campaign directly from her prosecutors completely contradicted those issued by the CNE. This has been so overwhelming, so great, that we have won in all the states of the country, said Machado. According to her, opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez won the election with 70% of the votes, against 30% for Maduro and, what is more, this would have been the largest margin of victory in any presidential election in Venezuela. Gonzalez, who was widely expected to win, said that "all the rules have been violated here ... our message of reconciliation and peaceful change remains valid. Our struggle continues and we will not rest until the will of the people of Venezuela is respected." Media reports highlighted a wide range of irregularities, most importantly that key voting stations refused to release paper tallies that could be used to verify the digital results. Maduro also caused alarm in the lead up to Sunday's election when he threatened a bloodbath if the loses, as Christian Daily International reported earlier. Various heads of state and other figures from the American continent reacted to what happened in Venezuela on Sunday night. Political leaders from both the right and the left agreed on the need for transparency in the election results. Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a leftist, posted a message X doubting the results issued by the CNE. The Maduro regime must understand that the results it publishes are difficult to believe. The international community and above all the Venezuelan people demand total transparency of the minutes and the process and that international observers not compromised with the government account for the veracity of the results, Boric said. The Chilean president added that for the time being, his government will not acknowledge Maduro's victory, saying, from Chile, we will not recognize any result that is not verifiable. From Uruguay, right-wing President Luis Lacalle Pou used even stronger terms, commenting, "Not like that! It was an open secret. They were going to 'win' regardless of the real results. The process up to the day of the election and the counting of votes was clearly flawed. You cannot recognize a victory if you do not trust the way and the mechanisms used to achieve it." Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo said, "Venezuela deserves transparent, accurate results that are in line with the will of its people. We received the results announced by the CNE with many doubts. Therefore, the reports from the electoral observation missions are essential, which today more than ever, must defend the vote of the Venezuelans." In the United States, government officials and political leaders also expressed their doubts and called on Venezuelan authorities to publish the voting records. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Japan for an official visit, expressed "serious concerns that the announced result does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people." Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz said, "The Maduro regime and every one of its thugs should know that the world, and in particular the United States, is watching tonight and will keep them in custody." Similarly, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., said: "After announcing complete fraud in the election, expect the Maduro regime to now shut down the Internet inside Venezuela to make it difficult for those inside to communicate with each other and the world." Originally reported by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition. Ancient artefacts stolen from Cyprus churches go on display after return to country An ongoing saga involving looted treasures and political drama that began a half-century ago came one step closer to closure after a trove of artefacts, some thousands of years old, went on display at Cyprus' archaeological museum. The items were stolen by Turkish art dealer Aydin Dikmen from the north of the island during the upheaval of Turkey's invasion. They were taken from as many as 500 churches, AP reports, and the Cypriot authorities and the country's Orthodox Church have been looking for them ever since. Many were held in Germany after being seized by authorities there in 1997, leading to lengthy legal battles to secure their return. The last of them arrived back in the country earlier this year. The most recently returned artefacts are now on display and include jewellery from the Chalcolithic Period between 3500-1500 BC and Bronze Age bird-shaped idols. Treasures looted by Dikmen but already returned include 1,500-year-old mosaics of the Saints Luke, Mark, Matthew, and James - incredibly rare examples of early Christian work. The legal battle to return the items began in 2004, but repatriation did not happen until July 2013, with another batch returned in August 2015 before the final batch this year. Dikmen was accused of working with the occupation regime and his collaborators to ransack over fifty Greek Orthodox, Maronite, and Armenian Christian monuments, as well as stealing antiquities from occupied museums and private collections. A 1997 raid on Dikmen's premises discovered thousands of stolen objects, including 318 relics of Cypriot origin, among them 6th-century mosaics, prehistoric artefacts, and centuries-old frescoes. The latest finding saw an agreement signed for the repatriation of ecclesiastical relics, and prehistoric and other antiquities, to Cyprus by June 20, a moment a press release from the Synodal Committee called a "historic day and a day of joy". Prominent Myanmar Christian leader released from prison for second time The former head of Myanmar's Kachin Baptist Convention has been released from prison for the second time this year, after being released and re-detained in April. Rev Hkalam Samson, a human rights advocate from Myanmar's Kachin ethnic minority, was first arrested in December 2022. Rev Samson is the chair of the Kachin National Consultative Assembly, an umbrella organisation which unites religious and civil society groups with political organizations promoting Kachin rights, including autonomy from Myanmar's central government. Handed a six-year prison term in April last year after being convicted of unlawful association, incitement and counter-terrorism, Rev Samson had been released in April of this year under a general amnesty only to be detained again just a few hours later, AP news agency reports. Following his second arrest, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the spokesperson of the ruling military council, told the BBC's Burmese-Language service that he had not been rearrested but was taken in "for cooperation and discussion about the peace process". Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said in a statement released by the US Embassy in Burma that Washington welcomes Samson's release. "We are pleased that he is finally able to return home to his family and continue his important work," Miller said. "The United States welcomes the release of Reverend Dr Hkalam Samson from prison in Burma after he served more than a year of a six-year sentence on military-led, manufactured charges," the statement read. "Rev Dr Samson is a prominent, well-respected religious leader whose courageous work includes advocating for freedom of religion or belief for all. We are pleased that he is finally able to return home to his family and continue his important work." Rev Samson has been a leading advocate for the human rights of ethnic and religious minorities in Myanmar, and was part of a 2019 delegation that met with US President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the military's abuse of ethnic minorities. He was initially detained in December 2022 as he prepared to fly to Thailand for a health check-up. Christians make up about 6% of Myanmar's majority Buddhist population, but just over a third of the estimated 1.7 million Kachin population. Human rights groups claim that minority religions such as Christianity have been significantly persecuted in Myanmar since the military took over in 2021, when the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi was ousted by a military junta who suppressed nonviolent protests, triggering armed resistance and an ongoing civil war. 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. Climate change protesters including some National Trust members, volunteers and staff are this week calling on the conservation charity to stop banking with Barclays and switch to one that does not invest in fossil fuels. Starting today, campaigners will be targeting more than 40 National Trust sites across the UK, taking part in actions such as parades and punting protests inside or outside the grounds. A group of National Trust members, volunteers and staff organised the protests, with support from environmental groups including Extinction Rebellion, Parents for Future, XR Elders, Tipping Point, Money Rebellion, Fossil Free London and Christian Climate Action. According to campaigning network Bank Better, 52 organisations including Christian Aid and Oxfam have committed to refuse sponsorship from banks funding new fossil fuel projects. Last year, Christian Aid announced its decision to stop banking with Barclays and transition to Lloyds Bank while Oxfam said in January that it would withdraw funding from the bank due to concerns over its continued financing of fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the National Trust last year called on Barclays to act on its financing of the fossil fuel industry after it came under pressure to end its relationship with the bank. In February, Barclays announced it would stop directly financing its energy clients new oil and gas projects as part of its revised climate change statement. Trust lagging behind other charities Bank Better said that despite the National Trusts leadership in conservation and wildlife protection, the charity is still lagging behind other organisations. It said that the charity is a treasured institution that contributes more to the conservation of the British countryside and heritage than almost any other organisation. That is why were so saddened by the National Trust banking with Barclays the biggest funder of fossil fuels in Europe, it said in a statement. Despite campaigners engaging with the National Trust, urging them to drop Barclays, they have decided to continue their relationship with a bank that finances the destruction of the very environments that the National Trust strives to protect. Clare Fussell, campaign director for land use and climate charity Operation Noah, said: We love the National Trust, but it urgently needs to switch to greener, cleaner banking in order to keep protecting the places we love for future generations. This is an ideal opportunity for the Trust to make its money work for the good of our shared home. Jeff Waage, ecologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: To avoid a catastrophic future due to climate change we must stop investing in new fossil fuel exploration and extraction. Barclays is a major investor in this area and its response to this challenge falls far short of what is needed. Climate change is predicted to be the major driver of nature decline by mid-century. The National Trusts continued association with Barclays undermines its own efforts and its credibility as Europes biggest conservation charity. We must continue to engage with the banking sector In response, a National Trust spokesperson told Civil Society: The National Trust fully understands the urgency needed to find solutions to the climate crisis and the strength of feeling about this among some of our supporters. We welcomed Barclays announcement that they will stop direct financing to clients engaged in oil and gas expansion, and that they will require their clients in the energy sector to prepare climate transition plans. Its critically important that we continue to engage with the banking sector to do more and faster to reduce financed emissions. Were supporting an energy sector in transition Barclays was ranked in May by the Rainforest Action Network as the largest European financier of fossil fuels in 2023. In response to the ranking , the bank said at the time: Barclays is financing an energy sector in transition an activity requiring significant capital. While doing so, our financed emissions for the energy and power sectors have reduced by 44% and 26% respectively, between 2020 and 2023. A spokesperson for Barclays told Civil Society: Barclays is supporting an energy sector in transition, focusing on the diversified energy companies investing in low carbon, with greater scrutiny on those engaged in developing new oil and gas projects. We have stopped direct financing of new oil and gas projects, have set out clear requirements on our energy clients targets, transition plans or decarbonisation strategies, and have a target to facilitate $1trn of sustainable and transition finance by 2030. Last year we mobilised $67.8bn and while doing so, our financed emissions for the energy and power sectors reduced by 44% and 26% respectively, between 2020 and 2023. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Pennsylvania National Mutual Casualty Insurance Co. cannot escape the long tail of asbestos, and must cover part of the litigation losses for an asbestos installation company that went out of business more than 30 years ago, the South Carolina Supreme Court decided this week. The justices upheld lower courts rulings in favor of Covil Corp. and its receiver, with some minor modifications. The insurer had denied full payment on the claim, arguing that Covil, a subcontractor that installed and removed asbestos in South Carolina for four decades, and its receiver waited more than a year to notify Penn National that a lawsuit had been filed in 2019. The subcontractors insurance policy required it to immediately forward the information about the lawsuit brought by former worker David Rollins, who had been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The receiver noted that, under previous South Carolina court rulings, the timely notice provision applies only if the insurer had been prejudiced by not knowing about the pending litigation. But Penn National attorneys countered that the prejudice rule does not apply unless the rights of an innocent third party were harmed. In this case, Rollins, the victim, had already been compensated and thus was not harmed by the delay, the Supreme Court found, overruling the lower courts on that point. In this case, the driving force has no force at all because no innocent third partys rights are implicated. The underlying plaintiffRollinshas already been paid the full amount of his settlement by Covil and other insurers, Justice John Cannon Few wrote for the majority. But the justices said the failure to give timely notice was not fatal to the insurance claim for another reason: Case law has established that the failure must constitute a material breach. Covils late notice to Penn did not harm anyone, the justices found. The point that is important to analyzing the benefit . . . reasonably expected is not whether Penn Nationals interests were protected but whether Covils interests were, the July 24 opinion reads. Penn National was not deprived of this benefit because Covil was represented by counsel hired by other insurers from the very beginning of the case. Those attorneys timely answered the complaint, conducted discovery, and handled other pretrial matters they deemed necessary to protect Covil. Policy exclusions also did not apply, the justices said. The court modified the lower courts ruling on other points, but upheld them in substance. The opinion can be seen here. Justice John Kittredge dissented on the finding that the breach of the notice provision was immaterial. Indivior reached an $86 million settlement with 16 U.S. states over the drug manufacturersalleged role in spreading opioid addiction across the United States, New York Attorney General Letitia James said on Friday. James said the settlement in principle concerned Indiviors manufacture of buprenorphine-based products meant to treat opioid abuse, but which allegedly can fuel addiction if misused. The North Chesterfield, Virginia-based company was accused of improperly targeting sales to doctors running pill mills and failing to monitor suspicious orders, leading to inappropriate prescriptions. Indiviors buprenorphine-based products include Sublocade and Suboxone. When companies like Indivior exploit those in the thralls of addiction for profit, their behavior must be stopped, James said in a statement. She said the $86 million will be used over five years for opioid addiction treatment, recovery and prevention. Indivior did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It said on Thursday it set aside $75 million for an expected settlement, reflecting the net present value of the payout. A final settlement must still be negotiated. More than 800,000 people in the United States died of opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2023, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said. Indivior remains a defendant in more than 400 civil lawsuits accusing manufacturers, distributors and retailers of ignoring red flags about how opioids have been prescribed and used, and marketing them improperly as a safe means to treat chronic pain. Reckitt Benckiser RKT.L spun off Indivior in 2014. Both companies have offices in Slough, England. James said the Indivior settlement was negotiated by her office and the attorneys general of Illinois, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia. California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon and Vermont were also involved. (Reporting by Stempel in New York; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Marguerita Choy) China Coast Guard monitors latest Philippine resupply activity at Ren'ai Jiao Xinhua) 09:50, July 29, 2024 BEIJING, July 27 (Xinhua) -- China's coast guard teams are monitoring the resupply activity conducted by a civilian vessel sent by the Philippines to its grounded military ship at China's Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea, a spokesperson said Saturday. Gan Yu, a spokesperson for the China Coast Guard, stated that the replenishment of living necessities was a provisional arrangement agreed upon by both sides. China's coast guard will monitor the entire process. Gan expressed the hope that the Philippine side will remain committed to working with China to maintain control over the situation at sea. He also said that China's coast guard will continue to conduct maritime law enforcement activities in the Nansha Qundao, including Ren'ai Jiao, and its adjacent waters. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Mozambique has substantially won its $3.1-billion lawsuit at Londons High Court against Emirati-Lebanese shipbuilder Privinvest for allegedly paying bribes in relation to the decade-old tuna bond scandal. The southeast African country sued Privinvest and its now late owner Iskandar Safa, alleging they paid bribes to Mozambican officials and Credit Suisse bankers to secure favorable terms on three projects in 2013 and 2014, including one designed to exploit Mozambiques tuna-rich coastal waters. Judge Robin Knowles on Monday ruled substantially in favor of Mozambique, which he said had been exploited by highly developed institutions and corporations that should have known better. In his written ruling, the judge said Mozambique is entitled to payment of just over $825 million from Safa and companies in the Privinvest group, plus an indemnity in relation to $1.5 billion it is liable to pay lenders and bondholders, less around $420 million already recovered by the country. The trial centered on deals struck by state-owned companies with Privinvest for loans and bonds from banks including Credit Suisse for fishing boats and maritime security, projects backed by undisclosed state guarantees. But hundreds of millions of dollars went missing and, when the government debt came to light in 2016, donors such as the International Monetary Fund temporarily halted support, triggering a currency collapse, defaults and financial turmoil. The scale and nature of what was able to happen in this case presented systemic threat to Mozambiques economy, Knowles said in his ruling, although he was also critical of the countrys own officials. Mozambiques case was brought against Credit Suisse, since taken over by UBS UBSG.S, three of the Swiss lenders former employees who had pleaded guilty in the United States Privinvest, Safa and others. Credit Suisse agreed an 11th-hour settlement with Mozambique in October before reaching a deal with Privinvest during the trial, allowing the lender to draw a line under the scandal which had already seen the bank pay out hundreds of millions. Mozambiques case continued, with the focus now on Privinvest and Safa, who denied any wrongdoing and said any payments were lawful. Their lawyers argued the case was a politically-motivated attack to deflect blame from Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi and other senior officials. Knowles ruled largely in Mozambiques favor, finding that Safa and Privinvest were prepared to promise or pay whoever it took and paid bribes to then Finance Minister Manuel Chang who is currently on criminal trial in New York. Mozambique was hustled to buy what it couldnt use properly and didnt need and wasnt prepared for, Knowles said. A spokesperson for Mozambiques Attorney Generals Office said the government will continue working to eradicate corruption and organized and transnational crime and hold accountable those involved. In a statement, a spokesperson for Privinvest said it intends to appeal against the finding it paid bribes to Chang and that it was unfair that it may face the burden of hundreds of millions of dollars of damages. The tuna bond or hidden debt case has also triggered criminal investigations from Maputo to New York. (Reporting by Tobin, Additional reporting by Manuel Mucari in Maputo, Editing by Kylie MacLellan, Kirsten Donovan) Three months after Tyco Fire Products agreed to pay $750 million to communities with groundwater affected by so-called forever chemicals found in fire-stopping foam, Tyco has reached a tentative settlement with one of its insurance companies. We write jointly on behalf of Tyco Fire Products LP and TIG Insurance Company to inform the Court that Tyco and TIG have reached a settlement-in-principle, lawyers for Tyco wrote to the federal judge in South Carolina last week. This settlement-in-principle must be finalized through a formal written agreement, which Tyco and TIG expect to finalize expeditiously. The settlement, for an undisclosed amount, is part of a massive, 7,000-plaintiff, multidistrict litigation handled in U.S. District Court in South Carolina. Tyco said the settlement essentially ends its suit against TIG Insurance and several other insurers over pollution exclusions in commercial liability policies. Tyco in May reached a settlement with six AIG Insurance subsidiaries, and the latest action renders Tycos recent motion for partial summary judgment in the case to be entirely moot, the letter reads. In March, Tyco settled with Zurich American Insurance Co. Travelers Casualty and Surety Co. last week asked the court to decide on questions about the extent of coverage provided by excess policies. That issue is still pending. The TIG settlement is a significant step in resolving part of the compensation question for plaintiffs, but much of the litigation is likely to continue for years. 3M Co., which manufactured some of the compounds used in firefighting foam, announced two years ago that it would stop producing the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, chemicals by 2025. Reports have shown that PFAS chemicals can last for centuries and have been shown to cause cancer and other serious health problems in humans. 3M and other manufacturers have already paid several billion dollars in settlements and 3M may end up liable for more than $30 billion before the saga is concluded, Bloomberg news has reported. In April, Tyco, part of Johnson Controls Inc., agreed to pay $750 million to public water systems across the U.S. that have been contaminated with PFAS chemicals. The funds should be paid out by the end of this year. BASF, the German chemical company, in May also reached a $317 million settlement with public water systems. Firefighters in Connecticut last month filed suit against 3M, DuPont and Honeywell over allegations that protective gear had been contaminated with the toxic chemicals. HOUSTON, Texas The iconic gold bikini-style costume once worn by Carrie Fisher while making Return of the Jedi in the Star Wars franchise was sold at an auction. The costume was sold Friday by Dallas-based Heritage Auctions for $175,000, according to the auction house that handled the sale. The costume was made famous when the actress wore it at the start of the 1983 film when Princess Leia was captured by Jabba the Hutt at his palace on Tatooine. The seven-piece ensemble, which includes a bikini brassiere, bikini plates, hip rings, an armlet and a bracelet, was designed by the late Richard Miller who was the chief sculptor for Industrial Light & Magic, the visual effects company founded by Star Wars creator George Lucas. A filming miniature of a Y-Wing Starfighter used in destroying the Death Star in 1977s Star Wars: A New Hope, also sold at the auction for a whopping $1.55 million, according to The Associated Press. The auction house told The Associated Press that the costume sparked a bidding war among collectors. In a November 2016 interview with NPRs Fresh Air, Fisher said wearing the costume was not her choice. When (director George Lucas) showed me the outfit, I thought he was kidding and it made me very nervous. I had to sit very straight because I couldnt have lines on my sides, like little creases. No creases were allowed, so I had to sit very, very rigid straight, said Fisher, who died about a month after the interview. Chief Technology Officer of X Elon Musk speaks onstage during the "Exploring the New Frontiers of Innovation: Mark Read in Conversation with Elon Musk" session at the Lumiere Theatre during the Cannes Lions International Festival Of Creativity 2024 - Day Three on June 19, 2024 in Cannes, France. Elon Musk, the owner of X, retweeted a parody Kamala Harris campaign ad Friday without labeling it as misleading, an apparent violation of his own platform's rules. Portions of video footage in the altered content such as Harris speaking to crowds, and general videos of her supporters were used in a recent Harris' campaign video on YouTube. Most notably, the altered content uses a voice over that sounds like the vice president, making it seem like she is calling Biden senile and herself an incompetent presidential candidate. In the original video, Harris narrates, telling viewers, "In this election, we each face a question: what kind of country do we want to live in?" before breaking into Beyonce's song "Freedom." The altered video reposted by Musk does not include Beyonce. Instead, a voice that sounds like Harris' begins by saying, "I Kamala Harris am your Democrat candidate for president because Joe Biden finally exposed his senility at the debate." The voice goes on to say that Harris was selected because she is "the ultimate diversity hire" as she's both a woman and a person of color. "So if you criticize anything I say you're both sexist and racist," the voice continues. The video then accuses Harris of "trying to sound Black" and doing a "Barack Obama impression" in her speeches. The video comes as Republicans across the country this week have accused Harris of being the "DEI candidate," with some alluding to her race and gender as reasons why she was selected to be the Democratic presidential nominee. In a statement, Harris campaign spokesperson Mia Ehrenberg blasted Musk and former President Donald Trump, saying, "We believe the American people want the real freedom, opportunity, and security Vice President Harris is offering; not the fake, manipulated lies of Elon Musk and Donald Trump." It was not immediately clear if the video is a product of artificial intelligence. It was originally posted by a YouTube account by the name of "Mr Reagan," which labeled it as a parody. Alexios Mantzarlis, the director of the Security, Trust, and Safety Initiative at Cornell Tech, Cornell University's graduate campus in New York City, indicated to NBC News that the altered content may be considered a deepfake, generally defined as misleading content using artificial intelligence. "In recent-ish elections in Argentina, India and elsewhere, we saw deepfakes being used primarily for this type of surface-level deception that's more akin to trolling memes than to legitimate misinformation," Mantzarlis said. "I expect we'll see plenty of this in the US for the next 100 days" until the November election. There is no official label on Musk's retweet indicating that the video is a parody or manipulated, which may violate X's own policy regarding misleading content. "You may not share synthetic, manipulated, or out-of-context media that may deceive or confuse people and lead to harm ("misleading media")," the policy states. "In addition, we may label posts containing misleading media to help people understand their authenticity and to provide additional context." This is not the first time altered voice content has appeared during this presidential campaign. Earlier this year, a political consultant ordered up a robocall that impersonated President Joe Biden falsely discouraging people from participating in New Hampshire's primary election. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat, accused Musk of violating his company's own policy. In a post on X, she wrote, "If @elonmusk and X let this go and don't label it as altered AI content, they will not only be violating X's own rules, they'll be unleashing an entire election season of fake AI voice and image-altered content with no limits, regardless of party." X and Elon Musk have not immediately responded to requests for comment. Musk's retweet of the video has been viewed 119.9 million times as of Sunday afternoon, and 166,000 on Mr Reagan's YouTube account. In the wake of an attempted assassination against Trump earlier this month, Musk formally endorsed the former president's campaign. When I was a cub reporter in Los Angeles, covering crime for the now-deceased Los Angeles Herald Examiner, we used to joke that we should never let the facts get in the way of a good story. It was a horrendous paper don't ask me what I was doing there other than booking a paycheck. My late editor, Don Forst, used to tell me that if I wanted truth, I should be novelist. But I was in newspapers, which meant I did whatever was necessary to sell papers, fighting every minute to try to find a way to tell the truth in the face of a phalanx of editors who knew how to sensationalize no matter what the story. The facts would periodically drift into my copy, and I would be most grateful for the reprieve. The stock market can be like that paper. We say all sorts of things and create all sorts of theses to explain what's driving the action, but eventually the rubber meets the road. That will be the case in this jam-packed week , with the earnings from Microsoft on Tuesday, Meta Platforms on Wednesday, and Apple and Amazon on Thursday. There's been a whole lot of extrapolation about how these Club holdings are really doing without a lot of facts not that the facts mattered with either Alphabet or Tesla , both of which failed to disappoint last week, and yet their earnings were greeted with disappointment anyway. I do not mean that cynically. If the so-called "great rotation" out of megacap technology stocks into small caps that began earlier in July hadn't been at its zenith, I think both stocks would have rallied. The crucial line for Club name Alphabet was the Google Cloud number, which was much better than expected . The issue with YouTube, whatever the heck it was said to be, made no sense whatsoever. They can't handle how much business they have. And all the spending on the data center to support generative artificial intelligence initiatives? The company is in a jam on this one. If Alphabet said it cut back on data-center spending, then it would be alleged the company is falling behind Amazon and Microsoft in the AI race. Instead, Alphabet said it would keep spending a great deal, so it was blasted as a company with no discipline and certainly no return on investment. The company also is now dogged by another competitor in search engines after ChatGPT creator OpenAI announced a prototype of SearchGPT . Well, that had to happen, didn't it? I will take my chances that the Google franchise maintains its longtime dominance. The reaction to Tesla was just plain weird. Tesla's stock began to soar at the end of June on absolutely nothing. We all knew the electric vehicle maker was going to miss estimates. I mean, what's the big deal? I don't know a soul who thought this quarter would be even remotely in line. But when it wasn't, somehow that was revelatory. I actually liked the call because CEO Elon Musk laid out the longer-term vision, which was great because I didn't care what that longer-term vision was going to be if he didn't stay as chief executive. Now that I know the multiyear plan autonomous vehicles, solar energy and robots I am inclined to push the stock hard as it falls. We saw so much bilge extrapolated to the tech titans reporting this week that it will be delightful, at last, to have the facts get in the way of the story. I expect the much-hyped rotation to stay hyped even as we know the truth: Nobody is actually buying the small caps because so many of these companies are pathetic. They are just buying baskets of these stocks, specifically funds tracking the Russell 2000 and S & P 600 . There isn't enough liquidity in these small-cap gauges, so anyone who sells a large amount of megacap tech and goes into these indices makes them look super good. That's going to hang over this week's earnings like a nasty shroud. Then there's the data center sword of Damocles that skewered Alphabet. It can do the same to all of these companies set to report because they also have been writing checks like mad to Club holding Nvidia to secure AI computing resources. I think Microsoft on Tuesday evening might be vulnerable from the cloud side because of Google Cloud's robust growth. Microsoft has to come out and tell a ServiceNow -like story about Copilot, its AI-powered digital assistant product. This also will be the first quarter where we have the new AI-infused personal computers. Will Microsoft have say something good about the initial customer response? It's not clear given the way that shares of fellow portfolio name Best Buy have stalled, and Best Buy is the company doing the plurality of the selling of these AI PCs . Still, Microsoft is the stock with the fewest enemies. It stands to reason that it will acquit itself well. The following evening Meta gives us its results. Maybe we can get some clues from CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Monday during his fireside chat with Nvidia's Jensen Huang at Siggraph, a big graphics conference in Denver. It's a favorite venue of Huang's, and Monday will be truly a remarkable get-together given how not long ago these two CEOs were not that close. Of course, Zuckerberg is shrewd enough to not get in the way of Meta's earnings quiet period, but I think he might explain why he's spending so much on Nvidia hardware, which could take the sting away from an Alphabet-like inquiry on the company's earnings call a few days later. Zuckerberg is a forward-thinking person, so he may actually be able to articulate why he is spending all the money on the data center. Facts, not stories. The digital-ad business is a good one for Zuckerberg. Still, like everyone else in the industry, Meta might be grappling with some drop off in spending from Asian e-commerce giants Temu and Shein, which had been aggressively courting customers abroad . However, this risk has now been pretty well-telegraphed, and I am just hoping for no faux surprises. It's very hard to move the needle for this company given its scale. For example, Zuckerberg has a red-hot property in the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which would be big for just about any company except a tech titan expected to generate almost $160 billion in revenue this year. I wonder if the smart glasses and the investment Meta might be making in Ray-Ban owner EssilorLuxottica will even get mentioned on the call. On Friday, shares of EssilorLuxottica had a huge move, which might have stolen some of the upside. Apple reports on Thursday, and if you think the cloud-computing heavyweights are spending on too much AI, then you should be buying Apple. It's basically an AI play without the heavy capital expenditure spending risk. If you buy Apple here, you also are following the traditional thinking that this is the last earnings report before a new iPhone version launches in September, so you want to get in right after the quarter. It's a good story. Amazon is problematic like Alphabet. It's spending a fortune on AI while losing a fortune on its digital assistant Alexa. Sure, there was just a big Prime Day event that featured steep discounts on a lot of items. However, Wall Street doesn't care about that. It wants to hear a clearly articulated story about why Amazon is so enamored with AI. I think CEO Andy Jassy and Co. will have something good to say, or at least a decent story. But it feels tired, in need of something new. I just don't think a strong Amazon Web Services number will do the trick. All of these stocks are fighting another enemy now, besides data-center spending fears and the small-cap run: the Federal Reserve. As it dawns on people that the Fed will cuts soon, any sign that there may be a housing recovery even if there isn't one materializing yet will be met with buying in stocks that benefit from that development. Just consider three of the biggest gainers in Friday's session: Mohawk Industries , the carpet company; Fortune Brands Innovations , the high-end home accessory business; and DeWalt parent Stanley Black & Decker , which we own for the Club. The first two reported OK earnings, and their stocks still took off because the companies showed discipline, which will turn into operating leverage when the rate-cutting cycle begins. As for Stanley Black & Decker, we sold some into Friday's strength because we don't want to get skunked by a bad quarter Tuesday morning. Basically, we wanted a smaller position until we have a better sense of how the toolmaker intends to capitalize off the moment. Over the past few quarters, I thought management would tell a good story as we waited for the housing market to turn, but it hasn't so far. I don't know why, but we have to keep these guys on a short leash: We don't want to discover facts that get in the way of the Fed rate cut cycle. The strength in anything home makes us unsure about how in heck all of the government debt can be so easily absorbed. Right now, it's been spectacular for bonds as yields trend lower, which keeps the housing-related story on track. You need both low bond yields and lots of rate-cut chatter to make this part of the market get momentum. It's got something to build on. The megacap techs, on the other hand, do not have something to build on after this recent rotation. They have not been able to lose their whipping-boy status. Maybe this week could be the week that it happens. Random musings I want to briefly address a few more topics before the busy week of earnings officially arrives. Contrary to the numerous press reports about my supposed "endorsing" of Vice President Kamala Harris, I want to repeat where I stand about the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination through the lens of investing in the stock market: The former California senator whose brother-in-law, Tony West, is the chief legal officer of Uber Technologies has real contacts among the tech titans. President Joe Biden always chose to have his agencies wear down tech companies. He appointed to key roles at the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission antitrust attack dogs who have it in for tech. Unless Harris specifically says her hypothetical administration would change nothing about its approach, I believe it's hard to be more disdainful of tech than Biden, who truly did not care about these companies other than to try to break them up or prosecute them. I believe Harris will be more practical, if only because she knows so many of them and can talk to them face to face. Biden couldn't. Biden's main conduit to the business world has been Gina Raimondo, the brilliant head of the Department of Commerce. Notably, Raimondo said she expected Harris to be on board with the semiconductor manufacturing build out in the U.S. because she had expressed so. But the most important part of the Wall Street debate when it comes to Harris versus Republican nominee Donald Trump is the shocking antagonism Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, has against Big Tech. Vance uses old-fashioned populist rhetoric against corporations, and he is no friend of the tech titans. The idea that the Republican Party is uniformly pro-business has become more complicated. The tariff proposals that Trump has floated could really hurt business. And Trump's recent comments about Taiwan paying the U.S. for defense that raised questions about his support for the self-governed island and chipmaking hub? That was music to Chinese President Xi Jinping's ears. It would also make me change my stance toward owning and not trading Nvidia because the company would not be able to get the chips it needs if the Chinese make a move on Taiwan. What a reckless statement. That's why I said if you own a lot of international companies and tech stocks and want to vote to help your portfolio, Harris is more likely to help those firms than hurt them. I want to point out that what I didn't say was that if you wanted to vote your paycheck, you should vote Trump, especially if you are wealthy, because he wants to cut your taxes. His help for you when it comes to taxes is as profound as I expect Harris to be when it comes to tech. And now I need to mention this nearly $500 million verdict against Club holding Abbott Laboratories over allegations that it failed to disclose the risks of its specialized infant formula. I know I repeatedly warned about this case, but I am stunned about the size of the damages handed down Friday. Abbott said it would try to have the verdict overturned. But the case was handled in St. Louis, Missouri, the worst venue for defendant drug companies. I am very concerned by this decision not just as an Abbott shareholder, but as an American. The Food and Drug Administration needs to step up here because this was an outrage, and Abbott must pull its formulas for premature infants now because it only makes $9 million a year on them. What a travesty our country has become when it comes to suing companies. But I don't expect Biden's agencies to get behind Abbott. They are pretty much in league with the plaintiff's bar on everything. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long GOOGL, NVDA, AAPL, AMZN, META, MSFT, SWK and ABT. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Sebastien Bozon | AFP | Getty Images A firefighter works to put out flames along Highway 32 near Forest Ranch, California, U.S. July 26, 2024. Firefighters made progress and were aided by improving weather Sunday in the battle against wildfires covering massive areas and leaving a trail of damage in the western United States, but further evacuations and resources have been necessary as thousands of personnel tackle the flames. The so-called Park Fire, the largest wildfire in California this year, was one of more than 100 blazes burning in the U.S. on Sunday, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Some were sparked by the weather, with climate change increasing the frequency of lightning strikes as the western U.S. endures blistering heat and bone-dry conditions. The Park Fire had scorched an area greater than the city of Los Angeles as of Sunday, darkening the sky with smoke and engaging thousands of firefighters. The blaze spanned more than 562 square miles (1,455 square kilometers) of inland Northern California. Millions of people were under air quality alerts Sunday in the northwestern U.S. and western Canada. The Park Fire started Wednesday, when authorities say a man pushed a burning car into a gully in Chico and then fled. A man accused of setting the fire was arrested Thursday and is due in court Monday. Firefighters increased containment to 12% on Saturday, aided by cooler temperatures and more humidity, officials said. Although cooler-than-average temperatures are expected through the middle of this week, that doesn't mean existing fires will disappear, said Marc Chenard, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland. A "red flag" warning was in effect for the region on Sunday, meaning dry fuels and stronger winds were increasing the fire danger, the weather service said. The National Weather Service also issued "red flag" warnings Sunday for wide swaths of Idaho, Montana, Utah, Colorado and Wyoming, in addition to parts of California. Fires burned across eastern Oregon and eastern Idaho, where officials were assessing damage from a group of blazes called the Gwen Fire, which was estimated at 43 square miles (111 square kilometers) as of Sunday. Apple said on Monday that the artificial intelligence models underpinning Apple Intelligence, its AI system, were pretrained on processors designed by Google, a sign that Big Tech companies are looking for alternatives to Nvidia when it comes to the training of cutting-edge AI. Apple's choice of Google's homegrown Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) for training was detailed in a technical paper just published by the company. Separately, Apple released a preview version of Apple Intelligence for some devices on Monday. Nvidia's pricey graphics processing units (GPUs) dominate the market for high-end AI training chips, and have been in such high demand over the past couple years that they've been difficult to procure in the required quantities. OpenAI, Microsoft , and Anthropic are all using Nvidia's GPUs for their models, while other tech companies, including Google, Meta , Oracle and Tesla are snapping them up to build out their AI systems and offerings. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai both made comments last week suggesting that their companies and others in the industry may be overinvesting in AI infrastructure, but acknowledged the business risk of doing otherwise was too high. "The downside of being behind is that you're out of position for like the most important technology for the next 10 to 15 years," Zuckerberg said on a podcast with Bloomberg's Emily Chang. Apple doesn't name Google or Nvidia in its 47-page paper, but did note its Apple Foundation Model (AFM) and AFM server are trained on "Cloud TPU clusters." That means Apple rented servers from a cloud provider to perform the calculations. "This system allows us to train the AFM models efficiently and scalably, including AFM-on-device, AFM-server, and larger models," Apple said in the paper. Representatives for Apple and Google didn't respond to requests for comment. Wireless providers including T-Mobile , AT&T and Verizon have faced a string of lawsuits in recent years from women who allege retail employees stole intimate images or videos from their phones while helping them with in-store data transfers. The cases are routinely dismissed when the companies argue they weren't aware of the staffer's actions and aren't liable because the employees were acting outside the scope of their duties. But that could soon change after a recent court ruling, legal experts told CNBC. Now, the companies not just the store workers could face liability in future litigation, which could lead them to address the hiring, training and data safety practices that victims argue led to the violations, the experts said. The latest lawsuit against AT&T was filed Monday in California state court. A woman identified as Jane Doe alleged that an employee at a Los Angeles store stole her nude images and distributed them in February after she upgraded her iPhone and he helped her with transferring her data. That case, filed by attorneys from the C.A. Goldberg law firm, now has a better chance of surviving and making it to trial after an April court ruling against T-Mobile involving a similar incident in Washington that was brought by the same law firm. Judge Stanley Bastian, the judge overseeing the T-Mobile case, ruled it could move forward after the company sought to have the lawsuit dismissed. T-Mobile, like other phone carriers, had argued it wasn't aware of the employee's actions and said he was acting outside the scope of his duties. But the judge decided the company could potentially be liable and ruled the case should proceed. The ruling, described by the law firm as a "landmark" decision, is the first of its kind against a wireless carrier accused of negligence for hiring employees alleged to have stolen sensitive customer data, the firm said. It could affect the fate of future cases, including the lawsuit filed against AT&T on Monday, legal experts said. "That decision sets important precedent and we intend to continue to try to hold phone companies accountable for situations like this where their employees violate customer privacy during phone trade-ins or other transactions at the stores," said Laura Hecht-Felella from C.A. Goldberg, one of the lead attorneys behind both the T-Mobile and the new AT&T case. "There's a lot of different ways in which they can try to prevent this from happening and it's clear whatever they're currently doing is not adequate." Carrie Goldberg, the firm's founder, added that the "hope really is not to attract more cases" but to encourage the companies to have better safeguards in place. "That's what litigation does. It says you can be held responsible for your negligence," said Goldberg. "And presumably that will induce the phone companies to innovate on their safety and privacy protections for consumers at their stores." In response, an AT&T spokesperson condemned the incident. "We were appalled to learn of the behavior allegedly exhibited by an employee of a third-party retailer," the spokesperson told CNBC. "We hold the vendors who work on our behalf to high standards and we do not tolerate the behavior alleged here. The vendor has assured us the employee allegedly involved no longer works for them, and they were working to resolve this matter with the customer." T-Mobile declined to comment. U.S. Supreme Court Justices attend as U.S. President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., March 7, 2024. President Joe Biden on Monday unveiled a three-pronged proposal to reform the Supreme Court, a policy area that he said will be a focus of his remaining months in office. Biden is calling for term limits on Supreme Court justices, a binding ethics code and a constitutional amendment declaring that presidents do not have immunity from criminal prosecution for any crimes committed while in office. That proposed amendment, titled the "No One Is Above the Law Amendment," responds to the Supreme Court's controversial ruling earlier in July that declared former President Donald Trump immune from criminal prosecution for "official acts" he committed as president. Biden's proposed ethics code comes after several Supreme Court justices, including Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, were caught in scandals involving undisclosed financial gifts that posed potential conflicts of interest. Over the course of his administration, Biden has grown louder about his criticisms of the majority conservative high court, which has repealed federal abortion protections, limited the use of affirmative action in college admissions and struck down the president's student debt relief program. Following the Supreme Court's 6-3 immunity ruling, Biden issued a full-throated condemnation, "This decision today has continued the Court's attack in recent years on a wide range of long-established legal principles in our nation, from gutting voting rights and civil rights to taking away a woman's right to choose to today's decision that undermines the rule of law of this nation." If your day has ever been clouded by a coworker being annoying over email or Slack, you're not alone. In fact, 44% of employees participating in a recent Kickresume survey said that written communication, which includes messages or emails, is a common site of workplace annoyance. Those annoyances play out in a number of ways: When asked to rank five annoying behaviors, 33% of respondents ranked credit stealing first, with micromanaging not far behind at 32%. While 62% of employees said these bothersome behaviors occur in person, it makes sense that some of the most irritating interactions happen when we can't see the person behind the screen, says Nathan Bowling, a professor of psychology at the University of Central Florida. Bowling, who specializes in industrial-organizational psychology and whose research focuses on how stressful working conditions affect employees, likens rude conduct over a message or email to road rage. Because someone can't see the facial expressions of the person they're communicating with, it creates a sense of anonymity, which could lead to people engaging in annoying behavior on platforms like Slack or Teams, Bowling says. "I'm sure there's people every day engaging in road rage and the people who do that, if they were to walk by you on the sidewalk, they probably aren't that rude necessarily," he says. These small annoyances are related to the concept of incivility, which Bowling describes as "low-level aggression" that manifests as rudeness. This might look like sending a passive-aggressive email or doing something small to block someone's goals, like regurgitating a peer's idea as your own. But those little moments of irritation might not be so minor, as they eventually become a burden, leading to job dissatisfaction, or physical issues, like headaches, he adds. Some workplaces have been working on the offensive, hiring protocol schools like Beaumont Etiquette, which is based in New York City, to oversee training and onboarding for new employees. Beaumont's founder, Myka Meier, says 2024 has been their busiest year so far. Part of the demand stems from changes in guidelines following the Covid-19 pandemic, but everything, including annoying coworkers, becomes easier to handle with a bit of good etiquette, she says. "It's just showing consideration to the other people," Meier says. "Who wouldn't want a little bit more kindness and consideration at work? I think if you think about what is most kind or considerate and respectful to your colleagues, then that's what you should do." Here are two ways to deal with annoying emails and messages, according to Bowling and Meier. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni vowed on Sunday to "relaunch" cooperation with China, signing a three-year action plan during her first official visit to Beijing since taking office. Meloni, who has led a right-wing government since 2022, made the announcement during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, as Rome seeks to improve trade ties with Beijing after it exited President Xi Jinping's flagship Belt and Road infrastructure investment scheme last year. The Italian leader said her five-day trip was a "demonstration of the will to begin a new phase, to relaunch our bilateral cooperation." The action plan aims to experiment with new forms of cooperation, she added. Later in the day Meloni said that an industrial cooperation memorandum signed by Italy and China includes strategic industrial sectors such as electric mobility and renewables. Li Qiang pointed to "mutually beneficial cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises in the fields of shipbuilding, aerospace, new energy, artificial intelligence," in a statement released by his office. Meloni, who sees Chinese investment as a way to spur Italy's anemic economic growth, will meet Xi and China's top legislator, Zhao Leji, third in the leadership hierarchy. On Sunday, Meloni also attended an Italy-China business forum, to which companies including Italian tire-maker Pirelli, energy group ENI, defense group Leonardo, wine producers and several Italian luxury fashion groups such as Dolce & Gabbana were invited. The forum gives "another signal of the mutual interest (to) balance more our interests, our commercial exchange," she said. Meloni is expected to raise Chinese overcapacity with Chinese officials, as well as Chinese economic support for Russia in its war with Ukraine. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro celebrates after the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela July 29, 2024. Fausto Torrealba | Reuters President Nicolas Maduro and his opposition rival Edmundo Gonzalez on Monday both claimed victory in Venezuela's presidential election as Washington and other foreign governments cast doubt on official results that kept the incumbent in power. The national electoral authority said just after midnight that Maduro had won a third term with 51% of the vote - a result that would extend a quarter-century of socialist rule. But independent exit polls pointed to a big opposition win following enthusiastic shows of support for Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on the campaign trail. Gonzalez won 70%, said Machado, who had been barred from holding public office in a decision she says is unfair. Gonzalez told supporters that rules had been violated on polling day. "Our message of reconciliation and peaceful change still stands...our struggle continues and we won't rest until the will of the people of Venezuela is respected," he said. It was not immediately clear exactly what the opposition's next move might be. Gonzalez also said he was not calling for supporters to take to the streets or commit any acts of violence. But isolated incidents took place around the country before the announcement of results, including the death of one man in Tachira state and scuffles at polling sites in Caracas and other places. Police dispersed a protest in Catia, traditionally a ruling party bastion in western Caracas. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington had serious concerns that the results announced by the electoral authority did not reflect the votes of the people. The authority is meant to be an independent body but the opposition says it acts as an arm of Maduro's government. Caracas and Washington have long had an adversarial relationship dating back to the era of left-wing populist Hugo Chavez. Maduro - a 61-year-old former bus driver and foreign minister - first took office on Chavez's death in 2013 and his 2018 reelection is considered fraudulent by the United States and others, who call him a dictator. watch now Maduro has presided over an economic collapse, the migration of about a third of the population, and a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations, crowned by sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union and others which have crippled an already struggling oil industry. Argentine President Javier Milei called the official result a fraud, while Costa Rica and Peru rejected it and Chile said it would not accept any result that was not verifiable. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said details from all polling stations should be presented to guarantee fully verifiable results. "We ask that the calm and civility with which the election day took place be maintained," he said. Russia, Cuba, Honduras and Bolivia cheered Maduro's victory. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Maduro and hailed the two countries' strategic partnership, saying they would continue their joint work on bilateral and international issues. "Remember that you are always a welcome guest on Russian soil," Putin said. watch now Cutting the cake Maduro reiterated his campaign assertion that Venezuela's electoral system is transparent. He will sign a decree on Monday to hold a "great national dialogue," he said as he celebrated with supporters before cutting a birthday cake for his late mentor Chavez, who would have turned 70 on Sunday. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez hold a press conference after the electoral authority announced that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has won a third term, during the presidential election, in Caracas, Venezuela July 29, 2024. Leonardo Fernandez Viloria | Reuters McDonald's on Monday reported quarterly earnings and revenue that missed analysts' expectations as same-store sales declined across every division. "Industry traffic has declined in major markets like the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Germany. In several markets, we also continue to be negatively impacted by the war in the Middle East," McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski said on the company's earnings call. "These external pressures certainly weighed on our performance for the quarter, with declines in comparable sales globally and across each of our segments, but there were also factors within our control that contributed to our underperformance, most notably, our value execution." Company executives acknowledged that diners considered their prices too high and said that they are taking a "forensic approach" to evaluating value offerings and working with franchisees to make the necessary adjustments. Here's what the company reported compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: Earnings per share: $2.97 adjusted vs. $3.07 expected $2.97 adjusted vs. $3.07 expected Revenue: $6.49 billion vs. $6.61 billion expected The fast-food giant reported second-quarter net income of $2.02 billion, or $2.80 per share, down from $2.31 billion, or $3.15 per share, a year earlier. Excluding charges related to the future sale of its South Korean business and other items, McDonald's earned $2.97 a share. Its quarterly revenue of $6.49 billion was about flat compared with the year-ago period. McDonald's same-store sales shrank 1%, missing StreetAccount estimates for growth of 0.4%. It's the first time companywide same-store sales have fallen since the fourth quarter of 2020. In the U.S., McDonald's same-store sales decreased 0.7% for the quarter. A year ago, the chain reported U.S. same-store sales growth of 10.3%, thanks to its popular Grimace Birthday Meal. But in the 12 months since, more consumers have cut back their restaurant spending, particularly at fast-food chains, which they no longer see as a good deal. McDonald's said foot traffic to its U.S. restaurants fell during the quarter. "At the end of the day, we expect customers will continue to feel the pinch of the economy and a higher cost of living for at least the next several quarters in this very competitive landscape," McDonald's U.S. President Joe Erlinger said Executives previously warned that the competition for customers had become more fierce as the consumer environment weakened. McDonald's is leaning into discounts to bring back diners. The chain launched a $5 meal deal in late June, five days before the end of the quarter. A week ago, the company told its U.S. system that it plans to extend the value meal past the planned four-week runtime and said that it's bringing back customers. Executives on the company's earnings call said that the deal sold better than expected, with rates highest among lower income diners. Erlinger also said the deal improved brand perceptions around affordability and began to increase guest count growth, but has yet to translate into higher sales. McDonald's is trying to lure in diners outside of the U.S., too. Its international operated markets division, which includes large segments like France and Germany, saw its same-store sales slide 1.1% in the quarter. Company executives said they have seen a slowdown in France due to pricing competition and consumer boycotts over the war in Gaza. The company's international developmental licensed markets unit, which includes China and Japan, reported same-store sales declines of 1.3%. McDonald's continues to be affected in several markets from the fallout of the boycotts of the brand over the Gaza conflict, and sales in China continue to struggle. CNBC's Robert Hum contributed to this report. The new CEO at Vanguard said Monday that the asset management giant could lean on artificial intelligence as it looks to improve its customer service experience. Vanguard, which built its reputation as a low-cost and investor-friendly brokerage firm, has seen criticism about its customer service in recent years. Difficulty in reaching a Vanguard representative on the phone is one common complaint seen in online forums. CEO Salim Ramji told CNBC's Bob Pisani on Monday that fixing the customer experience is "very high on my list of priorities" and that artificial intelligence looks like a promising avenue for help. "A lot of the improvements that we've seen recently in some of the client experience has been due to applications of machine learning or instances of AI," said Ramji, who officially took over the top role on July 8. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) prepares to pose for a group photo with Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong (2nd R), Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa (2nd L) and India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (L) at the start of their Quad Ministerial Meeting at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo on July 29, 2024. Foreign ministers from Australia, India, Japan and the United States a grouping known as the "Quad" met in Tokyo on Monday for talks expected to focus on maritime security and initiatives to build up cyber defenses. The talks attended by Australia's Penny Wong, India's Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Japan's Yoko Kamikawa and Antony Blinken from the U.S., follow security discussions between Tokyo and Washington on Sunday where the allies labelled China the "greatest strategic challenge" facing the region. "We all know our region and our world are being reshaped. We all understand we face the most confronting circumstances in our region in decades," Wong said in opening remarks at the start of the Quad talks on Monday. "We all cherish the region's peace, stability and prosperity and we all know it is not a given, we all know we can't take it for granted." In her opening remarks, Kamikawa highlighted the need to build up cybersecurity capability and provide training opportunities in maritime security to protect and develop prosperity in Indo-Pacific. Deryl McKissack is no stranger to spotting toxic traits. McKissack, 63, is the founder and CEO of Washington D.C.-based construction firm McKissack & McKissack, which she launched with $1,000 from her savings in 1990. She churned through employees who weren't the right fit in her company's early years and the business struggled, she says. Finding the right talent helped grow her company, which now brings in $25 million per year in revenue, according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. These three red flags stand out the most when McKissack is hiring employees or evaluating her current talent, she says. People who lack integrity Every boss needs to be able to trust their employees, McKissack says. People who lack integrity are a problem, especially managers who don't give their teams proper credit. Alarm bells go off in her head "if someone is saying 'I did this' the whole time, and they're not giving credit to their team," McKissack says. McKissack isn't the only person who says a lack of integrity is a red flag among employees: Heidi K. Gardner, a professional leadership advisor and distinguished fellow at Harvard Law School, similarly calls out workers who pass off other people's work as their own. It's unethical, and it gives off the impression that you don't respect your colleagues, Gardner told Make It last year. "Maybe they're unable to actually see how much value the people around them bring to their own success," she said. "And that inability to appreciate other people's contributions is a huge red flag for me ... It's anti-collaborative." People who are hard to be around Nearly every team, no matter your industry, needs people who can work well with others. That's difficult when your co-workers don't like being around you, or vice versa. McKissack says she needs to actually like her employees' personalities, because if she doesn't like to be around you, chances are, clients won't either. "If I don't want to be in their presence, then no one wants to be in their presence, usually" she says. Having a warm, inviting personality at work can potentially take you farther in your career than your capabilities and credentials, self-made millionaire and entrepreneur Steve Adcock told Make It in April. "Your personality will get you 10 times richer than your intelligence," said Adcock. "I learned that throughout my career, slowly but surely. I worked with a lot of smart people, no doubt about it. But those smartest people in the office weren't necessarily the ones getting the raises and promotions." People who don't live up to the company mantra Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks to supporters during a campaign rally at West Allis Central High School on July 23, 2024 in West Allis, Wisconsin. A "White Dudes for Harris" online fundraising and organizing rally raised more than $4 million for the presidential campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday night, with speakers who included would-be running mates, Hollywood actors, and labor leaders. More than 150,000 joined the online stream for the event, which was broadcast on YouTube, blowing past the original target of 10,000 RSVPs set by organizers several days ago. The call is the male version of a "White Women: Answer the Call" Zoom fundraising meeting that drew more than 160,000 women to support Harris last week after President Joe Biden dropped out of the election against former President Donald Trump, and endorsed the vice president as his replacement atop the Democratic ticket. "I'm white, I'm a dude, and I'm here for Harris," said actor Jeff Bridges, who played the uber-laid-back bowler and White Russian-drinking character "The Dude" in the Coen brothers movie "The Big Lebowski," on the call. "I'm excited, man!" Bridges said. LinkedIn found Reid Hoffman and the film director J.J. Abrams during the call each promised to match $50,000 in donations raised from attendees. "Ninety nine days from now we have an opportunity to help Kamala Harris make some history, we also have the opportunity to change some minds, to have some tough but fair conversations, to meet other white dudes where they are and to address some things that, well frankly, just haven't been addressed," the organizers of "White Dudes for Harris" said in a statement. "We are honest, open, and ready to support our first black woman president," Speakers during the session included U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, all of whom reportedly were being considered as possible running mates for Harris. All four also are themselves "white dudes." Walz said, "We're not in this alone. The rest of the world needs us." "Here's the great news," Walz said. "How often in a hundred days do you get to get to change the trajectory of the world? How often in a hundred days do you get to do something that's going to impact generations to come?" Walz asked. "And how often in the world do you make that bastard wake up afterwards and know that a Black woman kicked his ass and sent him on the road, and you know that's something that guy's going to have to live with the rest of his life." Buttigieg said, "The vibes right now are incredible ... the momentum is extraordinary," 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. You gotta pay the troll toll to get into this boys soles. Out of all the many underdressed characters of the Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia universe, the one youd be most surprised to see wearing brand new and not-dog-shit-covered shoes is undeniably Charlie Kelly. After all, all of Charlies shirts have holes, his underwear is literally rotting and he likely hasnt done laundry since the show began, as theres a zero percent chance that the shithole roach motel that he and Frank Reynolds call home has a single functional washer or dryer on the premises. Frankly, its a minor miracle that Charlie even has shoes, let alone wears them the man doesnt seem to consider a toothbrush to be a must-own item, so its anyones guess as to what else is missing from his inventory. As such, you have to wonder what the in-universe origin story is for the pair of black and red Vans Sk8-Hi sneakers that Charlie has worn in almost every single episode of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia since the pilot. In a since-deleted Instagram post from 2018, actor and Always Sunny co-creator Charlie Day showed fans a close-up picture of the sneakers, writing, I bought these kicks in 2004 and Ive worn them in pretty much every Sunny episode since but we all know that Charlie Kelly has never stepped foot in a shoe store. Don't Miss Maybe Charlie found his Vans in the trash, or maybe he found them through faith trust in God, hell give you shoes. Of course, for as rudimentary as Charlies fashion sense has been through 16 seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, there have been plenty of occasions that called for a more ostentatious outfit than his usual Vans, dirty jeans and ripped, stained T-shirt look. For instance, Charlie sported a new look when he made a surprise appearance in a yellow and white suit and top hat at the end of The Nightman Cometh and failed to convince The Waitress to join him in this thing called matrimony. Advertisement Advertisement However, given the lack of colorful suits and tuxedos piled in his putrid apartment, its fair to assume that the many pairs of dress shoes that Charlie has worn throughout Always Sunnys more formal moments have been rentals, and the Vans are the only pair that he outright owns. Honestly, maintaining a single pair of Vans for almost two decades without losing them in the sewer or the shoes simply rotting off his feet is quite an achievement for the abortion-surviving illiterate janitor. In many ways, Charlies shoes are like Paddys Pub itself somehow still intact and operational despite their disgusting appearance and even though Charlies in charge of its maintenance. Charlie likes life in Paddy's Pub. In a less stupid world, the most controversial part of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony would have been when the Minions were callously drowned for our amusement. Instead theres now a major controversy brewing involving dancers and drag queens forming a tableau that some people interpreted as being representative of The Last Supper. Catholic leaders have called it a mockery of Christianity, despite the fact that it was actually supposed to be a depiction of the Greek God Dionysus and the Feast of the Gods. Yeah, apparently Christians dont have a monopoly on dinner parties thrown by deities. Don't Miss Although, as far as we know, this is the first time that Dionysus has been represented as a ginger Dr. Manhattan. Of course, even if it was supposed to be The Last Supper, the iconic religious tableau has been the subject of parody and revision for decades without sparking the kind of freak-out were seeing now. Mel Brooks did a whole Last Supper-themed sketch in The History of the World, Part I, and nobody lost their shit. The key difference here seems to be that the new routine featured drag performers who, as everybody knows, are willfully corrupting Americas youth through their nefarious childrens book readings at local libraries. I mean, whats next, bake sales?!?! Advertisement Advertisement One of the most vocal critics of the not-Last Supper was noted theologian non-religious rich guy Elon Musk, who claimed that the whole thing was extremely disrespectful to Christians. This is especially ridiculous coming from Musk, considering that he has previously heaped praise on one of the most famously controversial attempts to subvert religious iconography in modern pop-culture history: Monty Pythons The Life of Brian. Advertisement Advertisement While the Pythons ultimately cut any references to The Last Supper when their focus shifted away from Christ specifically, lampooning the Virgin Birth and concluding the film with a musical number sung by a chorus of crucifixion victims, was enough to land The Life of Brian in hot water with evangelicals. In fact, it was straight-up banned in countries like Ireland and Norway. The Olympics segment, even if it was a parody of The Last Supper (again, it wasnt) was arguably far more tame than what the Pythons did 45 years ago. But Musk has previously championed this very same film, claiming that one scene, in which Eric Idle asks his friends to call him Loretta, predicted the current debate over trans rights despite the fact that any parallels were obviously unintentional. He also conveniently ignored the fact that the characters friends actually try to respectfully refer to Loretta using the correct pronouns for the rest of the movie. Advertisement Advertisement So it seems more than a little hypocritical to criticize the Olympics Opening Ceremony after praising the Pythons supposedly blasphemous comedy. Its almost as if the sanctity of the Holy Scriptures wasnt his primary concern. Twenty-one Astor Place has been decaffeinated. Photo: Chris Bonanos In its 29 years in business, the Starbucks on Astor Place somehow became the second-oldest storefront on the street. It outlasted the Kmart, the Gap, the Walgreens, the Barnes & Noble, the David Barton Gym, the Vitamin Shoppe, the shawarma guy at the corner of St. Marks Place, even the Cooper Unions engineering building. Only Astor Hair, rescued from closure in 2020 by Howard Wolfson and a few affluent friends, has been around longer. Now the Starbucks is gone. According to EV Grieve, which reported the closure yesterday, employees of the store said the rent was about to spike. A Starbucks spokesperson declined to go into detail about the decision, saying only that we continually evaluate our store portfolio, using various criteria to ensure we are meeting the needs of our customers. The store opened on March 30, 1995; many New York City commercial leases run for 30 years with rent bumps at each decade, suggesting that it may have been faced with a big increase next spring. (Update, 3:52 p.m.: A representative of ASG Group, the buildings owners, offered this statement: We are sad they chose to leave, even as we offered a lease extension that would have allowed them to remain in their existing space at the exact same rent.) In 1995, its arrival seemed like a nail in the coffin of the grubby old East Village. It replaced the Riviera, the open-24-hours sibling to a West Village cafe that is now also gone. The Gap had arrived on Second Avenue a few years earlier; Kmart would be here soon. The Borg of coffeehouses had descended, and its greenhouselike enclosed sidewalk cafe made it and its customers especially visible. Yet it was a gentrifier that the neighborhood grew to accept pretty quickly. Its product was expensive for coffee but also better than the usual diner backwash, and it found its audience in a million NYU-freshman-year study dates. It was also (I can tell you firsthand) a pleasant spot in which to read a fresh copy of The Village Voice, often Wednesdays edition bought at the Astor Place newsstand on Tuesday night and hurriedly mined for apartment listings. A second Starbucks eventually opened a few hundred feet away, and a third operated inside the Barnes & Noble across the street, nearly bringing this Onion headline to life. when i was a kid you used to be able to go astor place and spin the cube and go to whichever of the two starbucks across the street from each other it pointed to. now both are closed and also i have to go to the cardiologist twice a year. just an interesting thing to think about mattie lubchansky (@Lubchansky) July 28, 2024 That was my second home when the Astor Place Barnes & Noble I worked at closed https://t.co/mYFM2LmfuU Ira (@iramadisonthree) July 28, 2024 All those activities were part of the foundational Starbucks concept of a third place neither home nor office, a daytime gathering place for meetings and social contact that isnt a bar. Although you still see people typing away on laptops in any given coffee place, that third-place idea is far less central to the Starbucks business model than it once was. Todays caffe latte experience, especially if youre outside a walkable city, is more like a fast-food one: grab and go, often via a drive-through. (Younger customers may be startled to learn that it was once commonplace to order your Starbucks coffee in a ceramic cup to stay. Some stores will still serve you that way, but who asks for it?) The Astor Place Starbucks, its 4,000 square feet still filled with students and camped-out East Village characters, once the advance guard of the New New York, had become the old-timer that didnt align with the neighborhoods habits anymore. If you just want coffee and arent going to park yourself, you can go to a lot of places and do so within 50 paces of this store to the Astor Plate kiosk in front of Cooper Union, for example, or the gleaming aluminum Madman Espresso trailer across the plaza, or the quilted-stainless-steel coffee-and-doughnuts cart directly in front of the Starbucks itself. Before the fall. Photo: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty That cart is owned and operated by an extroverted Egyptian guy named Ahmad Elsaid, whose coffee is pretty good, too. Look around, he says, gesturing up and down the street, pointing out the departed chains the Gap, the Walgreens, all the rest. You dont need them when you can buy anything on your phone. That obviously isnt what drove Starbucks out, but Elsaid tells me that hes heard that this location has been losing money for ten years. (Could be true, could be rumor; Starbucks will not discuss the financials.) Everythings different since the pandemic, he says. Salma, the young woman who works with him in the cart, suggests that the boycott may have dinged Starbucks business among NYU students. Elsaid says his business is fine It goes up, it goes down. Im okay but about the closure right in front of him, he says what everyone knows: The rent is too damn high. If Starbucks cant pay it, he says, his voice intensifying, who can? Related Declan Silveira, 8, of Gloversville keeps an eye on a putt at one of the kids games during the St. Mary's Summer Festival, Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Kopernik Boulevard school in Amsterdam. What happens next could decide the fate of the whole world. After more than nine months of desperate fighting against Hamas, Israel may now be on the brink of total cataclysm. Military action against Hezbollah, Iran's largest and best-trained proxy group, in neighbouring Lebanon, could bring war on a totally different scale, a war which Israel is far from certain to win. It is a war that might easily involve Britain not only in supplying arms and air cover for Israel, but potentially hurling this country into armed conflict with Hezbollah. Such a war would inevitably have a seismic effect on our domestic politics, already riven by pro-Palestinian protests. America's presidential election, in unprecedented chaos as it is, will be upended if Iran openly declares its military support for Hezbollah. That's one short step away from a war that engulfs the whole of the Middle East. And in the ultimate nightmare scenario, if Israel determines that its very existence is threatened and deploys its nuclear arsenal, then global war would almost certainly ensue, with Russia and Pakistan likely to be among the first to react. A mass funeral takes place in Israel for those killed in the rocket strike from Lebanon The funeral was attended by thousands of mourners who came to share their grief at the tragic loss of life This may seem alarmist to anyone who has followed the Israel Defence Forces' unrelenting campaign against Hamas, in the wake of the October 7 massacre of 1,200 Israelis. The battering of the Gaza Strip, which has reduced entire cities to rubble and forced more than 1.5million people into refugee camps, has given the world an illusion of Israel's invincibility. This is far from the reality. Israel is exhausted by the conflict. Previous wars in the nation's 76-year history have been brief, decisive affairs, and this is neither. After nearly 300 days of conflict, not only does prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's hardline cabinet continue to resist international calls for a ceasefire, but the guerrilla army of Hamas fighters has proved worryingly resilient. Their failure to wipe out Hamas will no doubt worry Israelis. And Hezbollah is no Hamas. It is far larger, with the support of at least 2.5million Lebanese, almost half the population. Saturday's slaughter of 12 children in a rocket attack was intended as the starting gun for a war is not clear. It was certainly an outrageous provocation, writes Mark Almond Israeli minister for defence, Yoav Gallant, visits the site where a reported strike from Lebanon fell in a village in Israel In fact, the group rules the country south of Beirut and its leaders have been preparing for war against Israel for years, backed by vast funding and training from Iran. Their fighters are not a volunteer militia hiding among the civilian population and scurrying through tunnels, but a highly organised, well-equipped, disciplined army, dug into heavily fortified positions. Whether Saturday's slaughter of 12 children in a rocket attack was intended as the starting gun for a war is not clear. It was certainly an outrageous provocation. Israel has already retaliated with air strikes against targets in Lebanon. And there is a danger that if its response to the killings is not sufficiently forceful, then Hezbollah and its Iranian paymasters will feel emboldened. But if Israel pursues further escalation, as seems probable, it couldn't come at a better time for the terrorists. This could start a war most Israelis don't want, which will undermine Netanyahu. Already 120,000 people have fled their homes in the north because of Hezbollah rocket attacks. Meanwhile, in the US, Kamala Harris, the Democrat candidate to replace President Joe Biden in the White House, will face a foreign policy crisis. If she advocates backing Israel, she will alienate Muslim voters, while attracting no Republicans to her side Donald Trump is 100 per cent pro-Israel. But for Keir Starmer the crisis could prove even worse. Many Labour MPs are furious at his past support for Israel. Protests on Britain's streets could quickly escalate to rioting, especially in cities with large Muslim populations, such as Birmingham and Leeds. And if the RAF is deployed to protect Israel against missile attacks once again, Hezbollah could strike at our air bases in Cyprus, which is only 60 miles from the Lebanese coast. So often in recent months the world has watched, held its breath and prayed. This time, the risks are higher than ever. Mark Almond is director of the Crisis Research Institute, Oxford. During my sentencing, I was called a fanatic by Judge Hehir. This word was published on the front pages of the national Press. I think I have a right to respond. For over two decades, I was a farmer in Wales, supplied my community with vegetables, and lived a family life. I worked very hard, paid my taxes, and was no harm to anyone. I was doing my job. But the politicians were not doing their job. Along with millions of other farmers, I was forced out of business by extreme weather events months without rain, months with nothing but rain. These are now yearly events. Central to my personal belief is the idea of balance. I have the same orientation as many traditional conservatives, such as Edmund Burke. Destroying weather systems in order to make money is not balanced; it is a crime. My political views are rooted in the philosophy of John Locke, the father of classical liberalism. We should live under the rule of law, and so should the government. Roger Hallam, centre, with other protesters outside Isleworth Crown Court in London after they received suspended sentences for attempting to shut down Heathrow airport in 2019 Judge Hehir called Roger Hallam a 'fanatic' during his sentencing The basis of the law is the welfare of the people. If a regime enables the destruction of the lives and livelihoods of the people, then the government is a tyranny, and the people have the right to rebel. No 'functioning democracy' enables the obliteration of our way of life for the next 100,000 years. Or are we living in '1984', where the consequences of going over two degrees, by burning new oil and gas, is a continuation of the rule of law? Judge Hehir said in the trial that these effects of what he called 'climate change' were 'neither here nor there'. He was given 250 pages of scientific evidence but refused to change his mind. Furthermore, he refused to let the jury see that evidence so that they could make up their minds. He merrily declared that the human race going to 'a fiery end' was not relevant in a British court. Can you imagine if he had said that about the 50 million killed in World War II? If he had said that about the millions murdered by the Nazis? John Locke was clear: any government that plans the death of its citizens is breaking the law. In the past, in the present, and in the future. No exceptions. When our children read about what Judge Hehir said, a decade from now, they will have one word to describe him: fanatic. The freedom to say what we want is the most basic freedom of all. It protects us as individuals and, no less important, it protects us collectively by allowing fake ideas to be exposed. Still, free speech does not come easily. One person might strongly uphold your right to argue for the deportation of foreigners, another your right to praise Hamas. But how many do both with equal force? Provided you stop short of harassment or intimidation, and provided you do not incite violence, you should be allowed to be as insensitive, offensive and stupid as you like. Students at Sussex University protesting in 2021 - they objected to Professor Kathleen Stock's argument that sex was biological In an open ideological market, true arguments drive out bad ones. As John Milton put it in 1644: Let Truth and Falsehood grapple; who ever knew Truth put to the worse in a free and open encounter? It used to be the job of universities to teach people this counter-intuitive notion, to bring students to understand that even someone they disliked might have useful things to say. But, in recent years, universities have stopped encouraging debate. Instead, they have subordinated free speech to the imagined sensitivities of protected groups. Assaults on free speech take several forms. Sometimes, visiting speakers are impeded by mobs. Sometimes, academics have their careers ended by organised intimidation. The philosopher Kathleen Stock was forced to leave Sussex University in 2021 after a vicious campaign by students and the university trade union, who objected to her argument that sex was biological. Perhaps the most widespread problem, and the hardest to prove, is academics being prejudiced professionally, or students marked down, because they express unfashionable opinions. All these things chill the atmosphere in universities. More than this, they mean that students often leave campus with that ugliest of combinations: a readiness to destroy someones career over the tiniest verbal slip, paired with a demand that everyone else defer to their own minutest sensitivities. Hence the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, passed last year, and due to enter into force on Thursday. It did not create any new rights. Universities were already under a theoretical obligation to defend free expression on campus. But it provided an enforcement mechanism, empowering a Director for Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom (the Cambridge philosopher, Arif Ahmed) to look into breaches. The very first ruling by the new Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, was to cancel the Act on the eve of it entering into force. Even more alarming was the justification she gave: This legislation could expose students to harm and appalling hate speech on campuses. If by hate speech, she means words likely to expose them to danger, that is illegal under our incitement laws. If she means words likely to cause unrest, that is illegal under the Public Order Act. But if she means words that might be hurtful, then she is betraying the purpose of higher education. We all need to learn to deal with ideas that we find obnoxious. It is possible to argue that the legislation was too broad. Some of its opponents believed that, interpreted literally, it might have made it impossible, for example, to remove a student who stood up in the middle of an exam and started screaming Free Palestine. But, listening to Phillipson, that is not her concern. Rather, she is doing the bidding of the lecturers unions and the higher education Blob, who are happy to shut down ideas of which they disapprove. Professor Kathleen Stock was forced out of her job at Sussex University in 2021 due to a campaign by students who disagreed with her views on biological sex The speed with which Labour has moved to scrap the only pro-free speech legislation passed by the Tories is telling. Education barely featured in the election campaign, apart from Labours spiteful decision to make Britain the only European country where private schools are taxed. That aside, it seemed as if a consensus had formed behind the reforms pioneered by Tony Blair and fulfilled by Michael Gove. After all, those reforms had worked, pushing British children up the international league tables. But the moment the votes had been counted, Labour came out with a flurry of announcement, all aimed at the education unions: a new policy on excluding disruptive pupils, a review of the curriculum and, of course, an end to plans to protect free speech on campus. If nothing else, Labour has shown us how easy it is to undo an outgoing governments work in your first weeks. Had the Conservatives taken a similar approach, scrapping the Equality Act, the Human Rights Act and the Climate Change Act, their 14 years would have been altogether more productive. I hope they will learn the lesson for next time. Laws that Labour may present as irreversible votes at 16, for example are nothing of the kind. All that is needed is courage. Lord Hannan is International Secretary of the Conservative Party and serves on the Board of Trade. Two dermatologists have shared their best teen and tween skincare advice for parents - and it's much more simple than you may think. The advice was shared by Arizona-based dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy and pediatrician Dr. Lisa Klein, who is based in Michigan. Dr. Klein is also the founder of Turning Tween, a resource for parents and their children who are going through puberty. The two have come together to share a Q+A series that will answer questions about teen and tween skincare and health. In their latest clip, which was shared on TikTok, they offered some tips for parents about how to approach tween skincare - a topic that's gotten plenty of attention in recent months. Arizona-based dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy and pediatrician Dr. Lisa Klein have revealed their tips for parents on their tween's skincare routines Many tweens are now going wild for brightly-colored skincare products from brands like Drunk Elephant and Bubble Skincare, using sometimes highly-potent products all over their faces. They have also been taking trips to Sephora to play around with the products, creating tons of different concoctions as they're being dubbed as the 'Sephora teens' earlier in the year. Some even share their skincare routines on TikTok, like Kourtney Kardashian's 12-year-old daughter, Penelope Disick. The reality star's daughter documented a 10-step makeup tutorial that totaled nearly $500 last fall, and included products from popular brands like Dior and Charlotte Tilbury. But according to Dr. Jeffy, teens and tweens don't need too much on their skin at all. 'I would say the best advice I can give a parent when they're thinking about tween and teen skincare would be to think of their child's skin as more like that of a baby than like theirs,' Dr. Jeffy said in the Q+A clip. 'I think that provides some good guidance in terms of choosing products,' she continued. The dermatologist furthered that you wouldn't want to put harsh, aggressive products on a baby - so why would you want the same for your tween? Some tweens even share their skincare routines on TikTok, like Kourtney Kardashian's 12-year-old daughter, Penelope Disick Many tweens are now going wild for brightly-colored skincare products from brands like Drunk Elephant and Bubble Skincare, using sometimes highly-potent products all over their faces - but that's not necessary, according to the doctors 'For a baby, you would really want to be focusing on fragrance-free products and sun protection, and that's what you really need to focus on for kids with healthy skin,' she explained. Pediatrician Dr. Klein agreed, offering the audience two easy tips to keep in mind for tween skincare. 'Two tips that we like to say, whether it's in my office or at Turning Teen is keep your skin clean and wear your sunscreen,' Dr. Klein said simply. Their advice comes after a new report that some sleepaway camps had even gone so far as to ban luxury skincare products at their facilities this summer. At Somerset Camp for Girls in Maine, all Sephora products are strictly forbidden, while Camp Mataponi in Maine and Pennsylvania's Tyler Hill camp both sent letters out that strongly discouraged campers from packing their beauty products. In January, Drunk Elephant's founder Tiffany Masterson spoke to Ad Age about the popularity of their products with Gen Alpha, explaining that she believes social media could be partly to blame. Matterson also maintained that the brand 'does not target children' and noted that they don't gift their products to those influencers who are under 18. No one will be surprised to learn that I will not be rushing over to Paris for the Olympics. Sport leaves me cold, yet the City of Light never does. What draws me there? The museums, the food and the beauty products. Forget medals, I say go for gold by way of skincare. For France is always top of the podium for mid-price pharmacy brands, available on every street corner. And I mean every: it boasts 33 pharmacies per 100,000 citizens, versus our average of 20. Oh, the thrill of a wall of Vichy, La Roche-Posay, Avene, Bioderma, Eucerin, Embryolisse, Caudalie, Phyto and Klorane. If you're not crossing the channel this summer, head to London's French Pharmacy (10 New Cavendish St, Marylebone, or online at thefrenchpharmacy.co). Launched by Dr Marine Vincent in 2020, it is a cornucopia of all that is most glorious in Gallic beauty, from Roger & Gallet soap (7.50) to Vitry Nail Enamel (3.99). Avene's Eau Thermale Face Mist (5.75), a portable hydrator and cosmetic fixer, and La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ (10.90), a multi-purpose soother, are its top sellers. France is always top of the podium for mid-price pharmacy brands, available on every street corner Dr Vincent also steers me toward Biafine Emulsion (11.50), noting: 'This is the not-so-sexy summer staple that every French family will use for sunburn and other irritations.' So what other secret weapons do French women have in their beauty arsenal? Here's what I recommend... The original and still the best Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water for sensitive skin (now 4.39, superdrug.com) is the original and best micellar water, prized by legions of celebrities. I also adore Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil for very dry to eczema-prone skin (now 15.19). Sensitive skin dream team AvEne's Tolerance range once saved my skin when it was so painfully reactive I couldn't even apply water. Avene Tolerance Extremely Gentle Cleanser for Sensitive Skin (now 11.60, boots.com) and the cult Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream for Sensitive Skin (now 16.80) are a barrier-repairing dream team. We're all talking about... Dr Vincent reveals: 'A313 Pommade (24.90, thefrenchpharmacy.co) has gone viral. One of the most stable, pharmaceutical-grade retinols on the market, its ointment texture aids Vitamin A penetration.' The menopause skin saver Vichy Neovadiol Menopause Meno5 Serum (now 31.87, boots.com) erased my cynicism about brands chasing the midlife- panic pound. It leaves skin looking so fresh. Fabulous multi-tasker Embryolisse Lait-Creme Fluide (13.50, escentual.com) is a silky, featherlight multi-tasker that can be used as a moisturiser and/or cleanser. Embryolisse Lait-Creme Multi-Protection SPF20 (15.75) acts as a moisturiser, make-up base and after-shave cream. Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre (10.50) can be used as a mask and/or primer. Heaven scent body oil Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil (from 12.50, thefrenchpharmacy.co) and its spin-offs sell like hot croissants at the French Pharmacy. This summer's hits are Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Florale (12.50), a rose-gold incarnation, and Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Care (18). Parisian hair flair I was delighted to find travel-sized Klorane Oat Dry Shampoo (from 5.50) at the French Pharmacy. And I carried away my treasures in the store's 'French Girl' Tote (14.99), fulfilling every English woman's fantasy. I was delighted to find travel-sized Klorane Oat Dry Shampoo (from 5.50) at the French Pharmacy. And I carried away my treasures in the store's 'French Girl' Tote (14.99), fulfilling every English woman's fantasy. Race you to it! With the Revitalash Cosmetics Ultimate Summer Lash Collection (129, revitalash.co.uk) you can invest in a genuinely effective lash serum, and receive three free gifts: a 5ml Lash & Brow Masque (worth 46), a Depuffing Eye Roller (worth 15) as well as a chic carry bag. Holiday palettes Chanel Les 4 Ombres in Coral Treasure (54, chanel.com) Radiant, rippling oranges and pinks evoking corals on colourful reefs. Jones Road Miracle Balm Palette (28, jonesroadbeauty.com) New tint, blush and highlight trios in this cult formula are set to sell out. Nars Afterglow Irresistible Make-up Palette (now 46.75, boots.com) Peaches, roses and neutrals in mattes, satins and glitters. Indu Summer Soul Make-up Set (30, indu.me). A glossy, glowing, beach make-up collection for teenagers that 40+ women should steal. Ruby Hammer Lip Serum Balm (18, rubyhammer.com) Hydrating and fullness-imparting colour plus care in six non-sticky shades. My icon of the week: Jeanette Kwakye MBE The Olympics presenter and ex-sprinter, 41, always carries Lanolips 101 Ointment (10.99, boots.com). Her skin staples are The Ordinary Niacinamide (5) and Hyaluronic Acid (8.80). She loves Fenty and Charlotte Tilbury for make-up, and Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil (28, johnlewis.com) and Plant Made bars (from 26, weareplantmade.com) for her hair. Jeanette Kwakye MBE - Olympics presenter and ex-sprinter, 41 Four policemen have been left red-faced after a flirtatious exchange with Queen Mary at the airport. The glamorous Australian-born Queen was several paces behind her husband, King Frederik, at Nuuk airport when she addressed the men with a cheeky smile. 'How handsome you are!' she said in Danish. The officers had been standing in the airport alongside their sniffer dogs to help ensure the royal couple's safety. They shifted uncomfortably on their feet before thanking the Queen for her kind words. She clarified: 'So... [are] the dogs.' And the policemen swiftly realised she had been talking about the canines, not them. They roared with laughter and appeared to let out a deep breath they'd been holding during the interaction with the popular Queen. The moment was caught on camera by Greenlandic state television KNR. The Queen's known for her love of dogs King Frederik and Queen Mary even let a wet dog accompany them in the back seat during their visit to Greenland The Queen was praised for the joke by fans who found the good-natured exchange in a video on TikTok. 'She has a good sense of humour, our Queen,' one woman said. Another woman said the exchange made her love the royal even more. 'She got you, great comment,' another fan said. Queen Mary has made no secret of her love for dogs over the years - stopping to pose with and talk to many during her royal engagements. She and King Frederik even shared the backseat of the car with a wet Border Collie during their trip to Greenland. Mary's cheeky exchange with the police happened days after she was knocked over by an electric scooter in the street. The Queen, her youngest children Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine and King Frederik were meeting the people when the accident unfolded. According to local press the incident was deemed an accident by police who said the elderly man driving the scooter accelerated by mistake. Queen Letizia of Spain could have been mistaken for a Hollywood star as she arrived on the blue carpet at a film festival in Palma de Mallorca last night. The Spanish Queen, 52, joined Hollywood royalty Michael Douglas, 79, at the closing ceremony of the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest 2024 to commemorate this year's nominees and winners. As she arrived at the event, Letizia glowed in a slinky metallic dress and strappy sandals; a combination fit for a silver screen star. During the ceremony, which was held outside in the balmy Mallorcan weather, Letizia presented Douglas with the prestigious Masters of Cinema award. The actor is known as a theatrical heavyweight with numerous accolades under his belt, having across the decades starred in hits including Basic Instinct, Fatal Attraction and Wonder Boys. The Spanish Queen, 52, joined Hollywood royalty Michael Douglas , 79, at the closing ceremony of the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest 2024 to commemorate this year's nominees and winners Letizia appeared in high spirits as she attended the event, and enjoyed animated conversations with the legendary actor. She opted for a glamorous make-up look that accentuated her eyes with a smokey shadow and styled her sleek tresses. To accesorise her ensemble, the royal carried a matching sequined purse and donned some dazzling earrings. Her appearance at the closing ceremony came after she had hopped back to her home nation from Paris, where she and King Felipe had attended the Olympics 2024 Opening Ceremony. The Spaniard was no doubt relieved to return to a warmer climate, after she was pictured looking glum during the proceedings which were a washout. The royal mother-of-two stood next to her husband while the pair were kitted out in disposable plastic ponchos and watched on as the heavens opened on the ceremony. Earlier last week, the Queen looked elegant in a vibrant floral print dress as she chaired the annual meeting of the Cervantes Institute in Barcelona. Letizia had dressed smartly for the heatwave engulfing Spain in the lightweight 850 Carolina Herrera fuchsia gown. Queen Letizia of Spain could have been mistaken for a Hollywood star as she arrived on the blue carpet at a film festival in Palma de Mallorca last night During the ceremony, which was held outside in the balmy Mallorcan weather, Letizia presented Douglas with the prestigious Masters of Cinema award Letizia clapped as Michael proudly received the award while attending the film festival with the royal Michael proudly brandished his award, which was presented to him by Queen Letizia, at the festival Letizia was all smiles at last night's event as she presented actor Michael Douglas with an award last night Letizia appeared to be in high spirits as she honoured Michael at the film festival that took place this weekend Letizia beamed as she presented legendary actor Michael Douglas with the award at the film festival The pair shared a quick hug as Michael received the award at the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest at La Misericordia Michael was delighted as he held up the award presented to him but the Queen of Spain this weekend Letizia joined in the crowd as she applauded Michael as he received his award at the film festival Audiences - including the Queen of Spain - cheered for Michael's success at the film festival on Sunday As she arrived at the event, Letizia glowed in a slinky metallic dress and strappy sandals; a combination fit for a Hollywood star Letizia and Michael pictured during the closing ceremony of the 14th edition of the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest 2024 The royal accessorised her sleek silver dress with matching metallic sandals for the perfect glamorous look Also adding to her look were some dazzling earrings which accentuated the opulent ensemble perfectly Letizia was the image of silver screen glamour as she spoke with Michael Douglas at the film festival The Queen showed off her enviably toned arms in the silver dress as she greeted actor Michael Letizia styled her hair in a sleek straight style, with her tresses cascading down her back at the film festival Michael and Letizia were very immersed in conversation as they chatted during the film festival Letizia and Michael appeared very animated as they enjoyed conversing at this weekend's film festival Letizia stunned as she spoke with actor Michael Douglas last night, and presented him with an award Grinning Letizia beamed for the cameras as she attended the event in a striking silver ensemble Letizia fit right in with other Hollywood stars, including Michael Douglas, at the film festival this weekend Michael too looked dapper in an elegant black suit and pinstripe shirt as he walked alongside Letizia Letizia carried a matching silver clutch to complete her dazzling look as she enjoyed the film festival last night Letizia and Michael walked on the blue carpet laid out as they attended the film festival on Sunday Letizia and Michael chatted as they attended the film festival, where the Queen presented the actor with an award Pictured: Queen Letizia attended the 14th edition of the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest at La Misericordia She joined the Mayor of Barcelona Jaume Collboni and director of the Cervantes Institute Luis Garcia Montero to attend the annual meeting of directors at the City Hall. Cervantes promotes Spanish culture and the learning of the language, and Letizia has been deeply involved with its mission statement for many years. The Spanish Queen's outing on Tuesday marked her first solo public engagement this month - after the latest bombshell claims made by her ex-brother-in-law, who alleges that he had an 'affair' with the royal after her marriage to King Felipe. For her engagement, Letizia was radiant in a shirt silk dress that kept her cool amid the heat, while she rolled up the sleeves. The mother-of-two accessorised with a matching belt and fuchsia Initials Insignia Satchel bag, also by Carolina Herrera, which she wore previously on a tour to Cuba in 2019. She paired the look with white sandals from BOSS with a chunky heel, which is also one of the Spanish monarch's favourite brands. Letizia's make-up was typically glowy, while she accessorised with her beloved freshwater pearl earrings from Catalan company TOUS. She was greeted by a huge turn out outside the City Hall, all hoping to catch a glimpse of royalty. With her husband King Felipe VI being the Institute's honorary president, Letizia has always been deeply involved with its mission statement. The organisation, which was created in 1991 and is in its 32nd year, aims to promote Spanish culture and language throughout the world. In recent years, Letizia has opened several centres around the world, including in South America. When it was revealed that Saoirse Ronan secretly married Jack Lowden earlier this month, many were surprised to hear that the pair were even together in the first place. Fans expressed their shock that the Irish actress, 30, had been in a six year relationship with her Mary Queen of Scots co-star - and tied the knot this month. Few can be blamed for their confusion, as the pair kept their romance low-key and scattered little evidence of their relationship across social media. Saoirse doesn't have a public online presence, whereas Jack, 34, would occasionally share loved-up snaps with his girlfriend, or promote her latest project on Instagram. The pair are understood to have been linked since 2018, when they met while playing husband and wife. Fans expressed their shock that the Irish actress, 30, had been in a six year relationship with her Mary Queen of Scots co-star - and tied the knot this month. Pictured this summer And while camera shy, the couple have not kept away from gushing about one another, as Jack has previously compared Saoirse's acting skills to 'gold'. 'My first love is actors,' he told The i last year. 'And when you're given a Ferrari like her, it's all about how you make everything good for the Ferrari to show off. 'Don't make a Ferrari do what a Renault Clio does. It's a dreadful analogy but they're like gold dust, good actors. 'When there's someone like that, you just have to facilitate them and you will get gold. And my God, did we.' Here, FEMAIL looks at the couple's relationship - from first meeting to 'till death do them part... ON-SET ROMANCE AND LOW-KEY BEGINNINGS The couple first met in 2018 when they costarred in Mary Queen Of Scots - a film focused on monarch's historic feud with Elizabeth I. Saoirse played the title role in the film while Jack played Lord Darnley, the Queen's second husband, known for his salacious sexual nature. They started dating in December 2018. The couple have kept their relationship close to the chest over the years, even going as far as to deny they were dating. The couple first met in 2018 when they costarred in Mary Queen Of Scots - a film focused on monarch's historic feud with Elizabeth I Saoirse played the title role in the film while Jack played Lord Darnley, the Queen's second husband, known for his salacious sexual nature. They started dating in December 2018. Both pictured in December 2018 In 2019, a reporter for The Telegraph asked the Little Women actress, 'Am I allowed to ask if you're going out with the person that everyone thinks you're going out with?' Saoirse said, 'No,' putting an end to the discussion. That same year, Jack refused to answer any questions about their relationship in an interview with ES Magazine. 'Oh, I'm not going to talk about that. I don't like talking about that side of life,' he said. GLIMPSES OF FLOURISHING ROMANCE However, Jack has since not shied away from sharing the couple's relationship on Instagram. Both pictured in December However, Jack has since not shied away from sharing the couple's relationship on Instagram. In 2020, he shared what is understood to be a candid clip of Saoirse driving through the Scottish highlands as he enjoys her company in the passenger seat. Elsewhere, other snippets of Saoirse's head look to be visible in photos, as well more obvious images where both can clearly be seen together. Meanwhile, in 2021, ELLE reports that the duo recreated a scene from Braveheart in what appears to be a now-deleted skit - as they prepared for the Euros game between England and Scotland. By the following year, they made their first public joint appearance at the Australian Open. Earlier this summer, the pair were spotted at the Glastonbury Music Festival in England. The Slow Horses star shared a rare loved-up Instagram photo with his girlfriend. Saoirse and Jack packed on the PDA as they stood arm-in-arm while watching a stage act. Elsewhere, other snippets of Saoirse's head look to be visible in photos, as well more obvious images where both can clearly be seen together. Pictured in February Last year he also opened up about having 'one of the best actors in the world' at home in an interview. He told The i that while it is admittedly odd to have public interest in your love life, the pair are grateful to maintain a level of privacy. 'I'm not an idiot,' he said. 'Her and I don't find that odd. We're hugely appreciative of the level of scrutiny we have We're treated well but we don't seek it either. 'People have got it far worse. It's also obviously of our own making. Whatever as long as we've got each other, we're alright with any of that.' Last year he also opened up about having 'one of the best actors in the world' at home in an interview. Both pictured with James McArdle at a 2019 Mary Queen of Scots premiere In 2022, they made their first public joint appearance at the Australian Open. Both pictured sat together Remarking on his nice comments of her acting skills, Saoirse also told Harper's Bazar in September: 'When a person you respect as much as I do him says that, it means more than anyone else's opinion.' The couple have also worked on The Outrun together - an adaptation of journalist Amy Liptrot's memoir about overcoming alcoholism, which premiered at this year's Cannes Film Festival, The work being helmed by Arcade Pictures, the production company which was helmed by Jack, his friend producer Dominic Norris and Saoirse herself. However, according to Variety, Saoirse and Jack stepped down from Arcade this year. A spokesperson told the outlet: 'Arcade was formed to make 'The Outrun' and Dominic will continue to drive that banner's train. 'Jack and Saoirse are excited to celebrate the film as it makes its debut and beyond, and will continue looking for more passion projects to develop together in the future.' SPARKING ENGAGEMENT RUMOURS The second photo in the collection featured four hands touching the summit - one of which was brandishing an engagement ring Last summer, Jack sparked engagement rumours when he shared an Instagram carousel after climbing a mountain in Scotland. The second photo in the collection featured four hands touching the summit - one of which was brandishing an engagement ring. 'Ben Vrackie, summit 2759ft,' he wrote. 'So not classed as a Munro, but a Corbett. Steep, beautiful path, unparalleled views of Perthshire, and the heather starting to put her purple on. Orher OUT out outfit.' While his caption didn't shed any light on the matter, commenters were quick to congratulate couple on what they thought were an announcement. MARRIED IN INTIMATE CEREMONY Saoirse secretly married Jack in a Scottish ceremony, as reported by the Irish Independent this weekend. The marriage, which happened earlier this month, was confirmed by the register of Scottish civil marriages records. It was reportedly an intimate ceremony involving just a handful of their closest friends and family, at the Edinburgh Registrar's Office. Sharon Sumner said she booked the day trip when she saw the prices on Ryanair A British traveller on the hunt for a bargain claims she managed to spend the day in Milan and enjoy all the northern Italian city has to offer for less than the cost of s trip to London. Sharon Sumner, from Cranfield, Bedfordshire, took the trip to Milan as part of a 'bucket list' before she turns 50 next month. Both she and her boyfriend Dan Puddifoot, 36, paid 28 each for a return Ryanair flight. The commercial specialist said it usually costs her between 35 and 50 for a single ticket for the one-and-a-half-hour journey to London. The thrifty 49-year-old drove one-and-a-half-hours to Stansted airport and caught an 8.35am flight to Milan. Sharon Sumner, from Cranfield, Bedfordshire, took the trip to the Italian city as part of a bucket list before she turns 50 next month The couple arrived just before midday at 11.25am and hopped on a train to the centre for less than ten euros. Sharon said: 'It's cheaper than getting to London and that's how I sold it to my boyfriend. 'I go into London a lot and it costs between 35 and 50 for a ticket. 'I've always wanted to go to Milan. I've heard it's possible to do it in one day. We did everything we wanted to do. 'Milan is really easy to get around, there's a train from the airport to the centre that was less than ten euros. They then visited the cathedral before tucking into a club sandwich and pink lemonade at a local restaurant. After exploring the city, they took the train to the airport and flew back to Stansted at 10.40pm. Sharon said: 'It was a beautiful day. The weather was stunning. We climbed the Duomo di Milano and had lunch at The Dome restaurant. Both she and her boyfriend Dan Puddifoot, 36, paid 28 each for a return Ryanair flight. Sharon said she has always wanted to visit Milan and was shocked when she saw flights for 28 The couple had lunch at a local restaurant (left) and Sharon ordered a fancy pink lemonade (right) The couple looked happy to be in the picturesque Italian city as they pose next to the Duomo di Milano 'I had a fancy pink lemonade with marshmallows in it. We just explored. We did 20,000 steps.' Savvy Sharon has more day trips to Europe planned and is jetting off to Denmark later in the year for just 49. She added: 'The flight is 98 for two people. It's about the experience of you doing it. You feel like you've had a holiday in one day.' Taking a day trip to a European city was on Sharon's list of 50 things she wants to do before she turns 50 next month. Sharon said: 'I'm trying to do 50 things before I turn 50. I've been ticking things off for about a year and a half, I've got seven things left. 'I'm climbing Snowdon and I've been to a classical concert in Vienna.' They've gone to great efforts to keep their two young sons out of the public eye - but Tom Daley and his partner Dustin Lance Black made an exception for the swimmer's fifth Olympics. The Team GB icon, 30, secured his fifth Olympic medal this morning when he finished second in the men's synchronised 10m diving alongside Noah Williams in Paris. During the event, Tom's American screenwriter partner was seen cheering him on from the sidelines with their sons Robbie, six, and Phoenix, one. Robbie - who was wearing a 'Team Daley' t-shirt featuring his father's face - was filmed enthusiastically waving a Union Jack flag. Meanwhile, Dustin, 50, held onto their youngest son and was pictured waving encouragingly at his husband of seven years. Pictured: Dustin Lance Black seen holding son Phoenix Rose and watching as their eldest Robbie Ray waves a Union Jack in support of Tom Daley in Paris this morning Tom and Dustin welcomed their sons via surrogacy and previously revealed they fertilised half of the eggs each - meaning they did not know which one of them was their children's biological father. The pair have chosen to raise their family in Southwark, London, and Tom has said his Olympic comeback this year is 'for them'. Here FEMAIL delves inside Tom, Dustin, Robbie and Phoenix's family life - as the boys' faces are revealed to the world for the first time at the Olympics. Surrogacy difficulty and tribute to Tom's father After meeting at a dinner in LA in March 2013, Tom and Dustin married in May 2017 in Devon. Aware that they wanted to start a family, the couple began looking into surrogacy as they wanted to continue their family lineage. On Valentine's Day 2018, the couple shared a photo of them holding an ultrasound scan as they announced their happy news to the world. Appearing on Giovanna Fletcher's Happy Mum, Happy Baby podcast in 2022, Tom explained how the loss of his father impacted his decision. Tom's father Robbie passed away aged 40 in 2011 of brain cancer. Pictured: Tom Daley and husband Dustin Lance Black. The couple met in LA in 2013 and tied the knot in 2017 On Valentine's Day 2018, the couple shared a photo of them holding an ultrasound scan as they announced their happy news to the world The Olympian said: 'Lance and I [] had lost so many people in our families and there was something about surrogacy that we were drawn to that just meant that we could pass on the people that we'd lost, their genes and their thoughts, their feelings, their personalities and being able to bring someone into the world, that felt so extremely special.' Despite being London-based, the couple decided to go through the surrogacy process in the US - as UK surrogates and parents are not afforded the same legal rights. He said: 'We looked into it in the UK and in the US. In the UK it's a lot more complicated because surrogates aren't as well protected legally, intended parents aren't protected legally, it's just not safe, there's a lot of hurdles to have to jump over. 'In the US, everything is regulated in a way that keeps everyone safe and in the US the surrogacy process is a lot more streamlined.' He told the Attitude Heroes podcast: 'In a place like this, that seems so progressive and so far ahead still to the United States on things like employment, housing, security and marriage. But on surrogacy, it's not available in the same way.' The pair welcomed their first son on 27 June 2018 and named him after Tom's late father Robert. The Olympic diver, who is competing at his fifth Olympiad in Paris, said he thinks about his father 'every day' after he passed when he was just 17-years-old Pictured: Tom Daley and husband Dustin Lance Black seen holding their son Robbie Ray Daley-Black Elsewhere in his Giovanna Fletcher interview, Tom revealed that they make an effort to speak to their surrogate 'all the time on FaceTime' with Robbie. In an interview with BBC Sport earlier this week, Tom revealed how having children makes him think about his own father every day. The Olympian said: 'He never got to see that Olympic medal, he never got to see me have kids and then win an Olympic gold medal. 'Now, our son Robbie is named after him so we think about him every day.' Last year, the couple - who had not revealed they were expecting again - announced the arrival of their son Phoenix Rose in The Times announcement page. It read: 'Black-Daley on 28th March to Thomas Robert Daley and Dustin Lance Black, a son, Phoenix Rose.' Posting a photo of their expanded family on Instagram, Tom later wrote: 'Our family has grown in the last week, we welcomed Phoenix to the world on 28/03/23 and hes just perfect. Robbie is loving being a BIG BRO!' Protective parents Pictured: Tom Daley and his husband with their sons Phoenix Rose and Robbie Ray ahead of the Olympics Pictured: Tom Daley in a pool with his eldest son Robbie Ray, who he shares with husband Dustin Aware that they wanted to start a family, Tom (pictured) and Dustin began looking into surrogacy as they wanted to continue their family lineage In August 2018, the couple spoke about why they hadn't shown their son's face on social media and how they wanted to wait until he is old enough to decide for himself. Appearing on BBC Radio 5, Tom explained: 'We want family to meet him in person first before they see him on social media.' Lance then joked: 'And also, he is so cute. He is going to make every other parent in the world feel terrible.' What's more, Tom and Dustin have also chosen to keep their surrogates private - but told The Independent that Robbie's mother is 'an amazing person' and 'part of the family'. Before today, the couple have only ever shared photos of their sons on social media where their faces were away from the camera. 'Fatherhood takes pressure off competing' What's more, Tom has said that becoming a father has given him a new perspective on life and he now prioritises family above all else. Pictured: Dustin and Robbie modeling knitted hats made my Tom Daley, who is competing in his fifth Olympics today Posting a photo of their expanded family on Instagram, Tom later wrote: 'Our family has grown in the last week, we welcomed Phoenix to the world on 28/03/23 and hes just perfect. Robbie is loving being a BIG BRO!' Speaking to The Independent in 2021, Tom said: 'I used to define myself by diving and if I dived well that reflected on me as a person. 'Now Im first and foremost a father and a husband; diving obviously is extremely important to me but I also have other important things in my life, mainly being my son.' On top of this, Tom also revealed how becoming a father has 'taken the pressure off' his career. He told the Huffington Post in 2022: '[Marriage and fatherhood have] changed the way I prioritise things. 'Just being able to go to the Olympics and know that regardless of what happens, my family will love me and support me, takes a lot of the pressure off and allows me to actually enjoy it. And when I enjoy what Im doing, I get the best results.' Speaking to FQ magazine, Tom also revealed how 'everything shifted' for him once Robbie was born. He added: 'Ive experienced some amazing things in my diving career, but nothing compares with having Robbie.' Olympics return This year, Tom chose not to compete as an individual and prioritised the synchronised event instead. In an interview with BBC Sport, Tom emotionally revealed that his fifth Olympics appearance is 'for his family'. He explained: 'For me, this time around, my Olympic gold medals will be standing on the diving board, looking to my side and seeing my husband, my kids, my mum, my friends, family, aunts, uncles. Debbie Daley, mother of Thomas Daley, Dustin Lance Black, husband of Thomas Daley, and their children are seen in attendance as they show their support ahead of the Men's Synchronised 10m Platform Final Pictured: Tom Daley seen hugging son Robbie Ray ahead of the Olympics in Paris, which began last week 'There's a lot of people coming to watch. To see them and be able to dive in front of that again will be extremely special. 'I'm so excited to see my little kids' faces when I am stood on that diving board. That's why I've come back this year - it's for them.' Meanwhile, Tom Daley delved into how stressful it can be to travel with two young children in during an official Olympics press conference earlier this month. He explained: 'Luckily, it was a night flight, so Robbie, who travels all the time, was fine because he's six now, so he's a bit more like an adult. 'Phoenix, however, is very much the second child wriggly, wants to climb everything, jump on everything. He was quiet but I had to like wrangle him the whole time.' Police footage shows the moment a killer who murdered his wife days after she broke up with him - while their four children slept in the house - weeping 'crocodile tears' after turning himself in to the force. Video filmed by the authorities captured Russell Marsh - who was in 2022 jailed for 25 years - sobbing as he is questioned about the brutal attack which saw Jade Ward, 27, choked to death. Shared in the latest series of ITVX's Social Media Murders, friends and family of the victim called him 'evil' and a 'monster'. One of the clips, taken on August 26, 2021, at Blacon Police Station in Cheshire shows Marsh crying hysterically as he repeatedly says 'sorry'. 'At the moment I don't know what you're sorry for, Russell,' the person filming - understood to be emergency services staff - says. 'Are you able to tell me?' Police footage shows the moment a killer who murdered his wife days after she broke up with him - while their four children slept in the house - weeping 'crocodile tears' after turning himself in to the force He also added: 'I forgot my tobacco,' as he attempted to calm his breathing down. In the video a whimpering Marsh, dressed in an Adidas shirt and shorts, told the person filming that his wife, who he had killed just hours prior, was 'upstairs' at her house while police discovered her deceased body. Elsewhere, police interviews with Head Investigation Officer DCI Kirkwood show the weeping killer sobbing while being questioned at Llay Police Station in North Wales. Despite repeatedly stating 'no comment', Marsh sobs and chokes up at moments in the footage. In footage from August 27, 2021, he barely held back tears while asked what attracted him to Jade. 'Because he had come into the police station I thought he was going to tell us everything,' DCI Kirkwood told the programme. 'So I was really disappointed to hear on that first interview that he didn't answer any of those questions. 'His behaviour was, one minute he sort of couldn't talk. He was sort of heaving. And then the next minute he would just sort of not react at all.' Video filmed by the authorities captured Russell Marsh - who was in 2022 jailed for 25 years - sobbing as he is questioned about the brutal attack which saw Jade Ward, 27, choked to death In April 2022, Marsh was jailed for 25 years for Jade's murder - after he disfigured her face with a knife and choked her to death as their children slept in next room Speaking to the documentary, Jade's best friend Taylor slammed Russell's 'crocodile tears'. 'She must have been so scared and terrified,' Jade's father Paul added. 'It's just unbearable to think. 'He's an evil, evil man. What he'd done that night...' Elsewhere, Jade's mother Karen revealed how her daughter told her she was 'finally free' from Marsh the night she got killed. 'It was about 11 o'clock and I had this urge to go and see Jade,' she revealed. 'And as I'm getting closer I can hear laughing. 'And I walk in the gate... She stood up and she said "Mum, I'm finally free, I've told him, no going back". 'We just hugged and kissed and told each other we loved each other. I walked out the gate smiling.' However, harrowingly, DCI Kirkwood recounted how Marsh - who was meant to be on a work shift at the power plant at the time - parked his car outside Jade's house before carrying out the attack that night. Shared in the latest series of ITVX 's Social Media Murders, friends and family of the victim called him 'evil' and a 'monster' In footage from August 27, 2021, he barely held back tears while asked what attracted him to Jade 'I passed him, twice,' Karen said. 'I passed him when I was walking to Jade's with the dog and I passed him as I was walking back. 'And he his very well because I couldn't see him.' Taylor, who had been enjoying the evening at Jade's house with the mother-of-four and some other friends that night added that Jade had at some point even joked: 'He'll be here somewhere watching us.' The documentary also saw loved ones recounting how controlling Marsh became over his years with Jade, stating that she didn't even want to marry him. 'He'd gone and booked the wedding, booked the reception, sorted everything out without Jade knowing,' Jade's mother said. 'Jade couldn't break the boys' hearts.' 'She didn't want to marry him, she didn't want to get married,' Taylor added. One family member even recounted hearing Marsh say 'now you're mine' as they tied the knot. The documentary also saw loved ones recounting how controlling Marsh became over his years with Jade, stating that she didn't even want to marry him. Pictured, Jade's best friend Taylor In April 2022, Marsh was jailed for 25 years for Jade's murder - after he disfigured her face with a knife and choked her to death as their children slept in next room. He attempted to cover his tracks by telling barefaced lies after committing the 'brutal and remarkably cruel' murder. He initially claimed the death was accidental, after he said Jade asked him to choke her during sex, before he later told the jury she had mutilated herself and then taunted him. The judge Rhys Rowlands told Mold Crown Court his case was nothing but 'falsehoods and slurs'. Marsh had been told to leave the family home in North Wales, after Jade summoned up the courage to tell him she no longer wanted him in her life in August 2021. And days later, he returned home uninvited as their four sons slept to murder his wife who had said Marsh made her 'skin crawl'. He drove the children to his parents' home near Chester and later handed himself in to police. Officers found Jade's body slashed, stabbed and strangled and dumped under a pile of clothes in a room which was sealed shut with a dressing gown cord. Judge Rhys Rowlands told Mold Crown Court how Jade 'understandably' had no interest in carrying on with an 'unhappy marriage'. Marsh, however, was not prepared to accept this as the end of the line for the couple. The 'paranoid' and 'controlling' power plant worker believed this split wouldn't last like the others that had been before. Throughout the proceedings, the court heard that Marsh would call and text Jade constantly when they were apart. Since their marriage, he had been 'trying to mould her' into the person he believed she ought be. He had 'jokingly' made claims that if he could not have her then nobody could. 'Tragically, it transpired to be the truth,' said Judge Rowlands. Judge Rowlands said that Marsh, 'fuelled by a sense of being wronged', went to Chevrons Road on August 26, 2021. He would then carry out the attack that cost Jade her life. He said: 'Jade was happy and hopeful for the future that night. In the early hours, you went over and entered using the key you still had. DCI Kirkwood (pictured) recounted how Marsh - who was meant to be on a work shift at the power plant at the time - parked his car outside Jade's house before carrying out the attack that night 'You sneaked upstairs where the victim was, not before going and telling your son that their mum had kissed another man. 'You had armed yourself with a knife from the kitchen before going upstairs. 'You wanted to make Jade suffer. She would have woken in the dark to find you in her bedroom and thereafter subjected to a horrific ordeal.' Judge Rowlands said that the mother-of-four would have endured an 'excruciating' amount of pain in what is no doubt 'an awful way for a young woman to lose her life'. It was a 'sustained attack' that, were she to have survived, Jade would have been scarred for life. He continued: 'It was a cowardly and brutal assault against a defenceless woman against a much larger man she was desperately trying to get away from. 'Any unexpected death is a tragedy, here of course you took that life in a calculated and cruel way.' The judge said that, during the trial, with the exception of Marsh, everyone in court spoke 'highly' of Jade as a mother who 'lived for her four sons' whilst enjoying a social life and being popular in the community. Jade 'should have had most of her life ahead of her', the judge said to Marsh, 'but you took that from her'. The judge said there was 'no credible evidence' put forward that, despite Marsh's suspicions, Jade had been unfaithful to him. The judge added: 'It is poignant that her last contact with someone other than yourself was a short while earlier that night with another man whom she hoped would be kind to her and would allow her to be herself.' Elsewhere, Jade's mother Karen (pictured) revealed how her daughter told her she was 'finally free' from Marsh the night she got killed Prosecutor Michael Jones QC earlier described how Marsh was working an overnight shift for his employer Bio Energy in Ellesmere Port on the night Jade was killed. He said the defendant had told his supervisor that he had to leave several hours into his shift and claimed his brother had taken an overdose and needed to go to hospital. The prosecutor said this was 'completely untrue' and instead Marsh was tracked by CCTV, ANPR cameras, and phone masts heading into north Wales and arriving at the former family home in Shotton. He said close friends and family members heard Jade saying that this time the separation was 'for good'. Jade had allegedly shared a kiss with another man at a party and was 'moving on' with her life. 'Within a week of this she was dead,' said Mr Jones. Marsh said her injuries were the result of consensual sadomasochistic sexual activity, instigated at her request. But Mr Jones said this was 'a desperate attempt by an arrogant, manipulative and controlling' man to explain her 'dreadful' injuries and death. A pathology report detailed how she suffered multiple wounds 'across her body', including her face and arms, while grip marks left her bruised and there was evidence of 'defensive' wounds sustained around the hands showing she had 'made efforts to fight off' her attacker. Her final cause of death was asphyxiation, he said. Moments before Jade's lifeless body was discovered, Marsh was filmed by officers at a police station telling them he had 'done something horrible'. The court heard he rocked back and forth in his chair and repeatedly apologised as police forced entry to the property and found Jade in the location Marsh indicated with blood-stained pyjamas and covered with a pile of clothing. Marsh, crying, had told officers they would find his wife, a Co-op worker, in the Chevrons Road bedroom and said: 'I never did mean to hurt her.' The couple met in their teens and later married, but Marsh seemed frightened of losing his wife. She no longer loved him, and he made her 'skin crawl,' the jury was told. On Monday, April 4, 2022 Marsh went into the witness box and gave evidence. While being questioned by his barrister Christopher Terhani QC the defendant accepted he killed Jade by way of asphyxiation and had no lawful reason for doing so. However he denied having any intent to kill or cause Jade serious harm. Father-of-five Marsh, who left school at 16 with two GCSEs in science and religious studies, confirmed there was a seven-month period in 2017 when he was signed off from work - at a different company - due to ill mental health caused by 'pressure and anxiety'. He was medicated during this period. The defendant also told the court he was roughly 30,000 in debt in 2019 following house renovations and paying for the wedding between himself and Jade. The couple were together on and off for just over nine years in all. Marsh said they had 'rocky times' throughout - more so towards the tail end of the relationship. He said the pair were 'tired' and 'drained' and claimed they had 'next to nothing' when it came to a physical relationship. In summer 2019, not long after their wedding, the couple had split up for 'a variety of reasons', the court heard, but they later reconciled within days. At the time of the split Marsh was accused of bruising Jade's wrists. He said he had 'never been violent' with her. Following the sentencing, Jade's family paid tribute to her with the following statement: 'Jade was a kind and caring daughter who will be deeply missed by everyone. 'Jade was the sunshine in our lives, she was the glue that held us all together. She was also a devoted mum who would do anything for her children, a much-loved friend, daughter, sister, aunty, niece and granddaughter. 'Jade's whole life was ahead of her and her death has left a void in all our lives. 'The family are very thankful to all of Jade's friends and colleagues for their support, and to North Wales Police for the investigation that has led to today's conviction. 'We ask that our privacy is respected and that as a family we can quietly grieve and continue to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss.' Detective Inspector Myfanwy Kirkwood, the deputy Senior Investigating Officer, said: 'For Jade's young life to be cut so cruelly short in such tragic circumstances is beyond comprehension. 'Jade was much loved by her family and friends and I recognise that no words or verdict will ever bring back this young woman, but I hope today's outcome will bring a small sense of peace to Jade's family. After the trial, Jade's family successfully campaigned to restrict how involved killer parents can be in the upbringing of their children. Despite being locked up for killing their mother, Marsh still initially held his parental responsibility over their four boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons. Jade's loved ones petitioning for 'Jade's Law', to ensure that no other families going through similar circumstances have to face the killer when making decisions about the children's lives. Social Media Murders: The Murder of Jade Ward, now available on ITV X Blake Lively has fans going wild over speculation she's launching a new beauty brand. The buzz first began when fans discovered a mysterious Instagram account called Blake Brown Beauty that followed the Gossip Girl alum. The account, which currently has more than 1,454 followers, showcases only a picture of a blonde woman popping a leather collar from behind, with her hair in a bun. Taylor Swift's best friend, 36, has yet to make the announcement on her own Instagram account, where she has 45 million followers, however, she is following the account. Multiple Blake fan accounts have already started following along and commenters were crazed, promising to buy whatever items she's going to sell. Blake Lively has fans going wild over speculation she's launching a new beauty brand after following a mysterious new Instagram account called Blake Brown Beauty The account, which currently has more than 1,454 followers, showcases only a picture of a blonde woman popping a leather collar from behind, with her hair in a bun Blake, 36, has yet to make the announcement on her own Instagram account, where she has 45 million followers, however, she is following the account Many of the mom-of-four's diehard fans seemed ready to snap up the potential products, with one declaring, 'Literally take my money' and another writing, 'Every day I am more proud of you and excited for your new products!!! I love that you never stop innovating.' One Gossip Girl fan account, xoxoposhipgirl, remarked, 'Ok I'm buying everything' and 'WE NEED TO REPLICATE YOUR INCREDIBLE HAIR.' Blake is famous for her long blonde locks, and her Gossip Girl character, Serena van der Woodsen, was infamous for her tangled mane. 'The one celebrity makeup brand I'll ever purchase from,' a commenter raved, as almost all A-listers have their own beauty brands now, including Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Gwen Stefani, and more. While Blake, who is married to Ryan Reynolds, has not yet announced what kind of beauty products she might be selling, she already has a request for male beauty products, as one man wrote, 'The fellas want Blake-level hair/beauty too!!!' On Reddit, fans theorized that the L'Oreal Paris ambassador was starting her own line, and had mixed feelings. Some didn't like the name and thought she should have simply called it Lively instead because 'it sounds like a knockoff of Bobbi Brown.' Others wondered why Blake, who also founded the mocktail brand Betty Buzz, was starting a beauty brand when the celebrity market was already oversaturated. Blake, who is married to action superstar Ryan Reynolds, has not announced what kind of beauty products she's selling yet On Reddit, fans theorized that the L'Oreal Paris ambassador was starting her own line, and had mixed feelings about yet another celebrity launching their own beauty brand One person wrote, 'We really don't need another celeb beauty brand. And I say this as someone who's liked Fenty/Rare stuff,' as another summed it by saying, 'enough with the celebrity brands.' Some commenters brought up the stunning superstar's previous lifestyle blogs, writing facetiously, 'I hope this is just as successful as Preserve was.' Blake launched Preserve in 2014 and at the time, it was similar to Gwyneth Paltrow's lifestyle blog Goop, although it was not as successful. Blake shared her favorite things, including a $450 crystal bowl and a $110 apron. Controversially, Blake also featured a magazine spread called The Allure Of Antebellum about the confederate South, which did not go over well with readers. 'I thought the era of celebrity beauty brands was declining,' one Reddit user mused. 'It seems like she can't help gravitating toward whichever celebrity trend is out there (e.g. her GOOP-like online lifestyle platform that shuttered) but is always one step too late.' 'I am so over celebrity beauty brands,' another mused. 'I do think using her step-dad's original surname is a cute tribute but I'll be real Lively is a far cooler brand name anyway.' Some thought she simply would be a better fit for a different brand, with one saying, 'Meh, she doesn't stand out in terms of makeup or for her skin, why would anybody buy her stuff? A clothing line would have been much better.' Therapists using the bathroom during sessions, making degrading comments and giving out advice that made patients want to quit counseling altogether. Experts, users and former employees of BetterHelp have described what they allege to be shady and unethical practices used by America's biggest digital therapy provider. The company is accused of employing under-qualified staff, pushing its employees to take on overwhelming case loads and offering unprofessional guidance that could actually hurt a patient's mental health. Even if you've never used their services, chances are you've come across their name. For years, BetterHelp has dominated the internet with relentless advertising, rallying an army of podcasters, influencers and creators to flood your feeds with videos promoting the company and offering discount links. In a statement to DailyMail.com, a spokesperson for BetterHelp denied the claims that sources made to this website and said the company does not hire unqualified practitioners, that its therapists do not give out detrimental advice and that the company does not release private data. Monae Hendrickson, a 28-year-old content creator, told DailyMail.com she signed up for BetterHelp in August 2023 because she was undergoing a major career change and struggling with the drastic shift in her life. She, like many others, had seen marketing for BetterHelp all over social media and as advertisements before videos by some of the biggest YouTube content creators. Ms Hendrickson said the lack of professionalism from her therapist was noticeable within the first few minutes of her first session. The provider began revealing personal details, including that she had 11 guinea pigs and did not see patients on Fridays because she spent the day making salads for her pets. Ms Hendrickson opened up to her therapist about her goals in life and how she felt like she was destined to do something great with her career. The above shows the start of the signup process when seeking care through BetterHelp Potential patients undergo a questionnaire to find the best provider for their needs The signup process includes answering questions on motivations for wanting to attend therapy and any history of mental health issues But the practitioner allegedly sent her a patronizing YouTube video to watch after their session that told her its natural to want to do big things even if its never going to happen for you. Ms Hendrickson said she stopped seeing the therapist after that first session. I would say that in extreme circumstances, if somebody didn't know what to do and this was kind of their last resort, it absolutely could be detrimental,' she told DailyMail.com. Several TikTok videos and comments on social media have detailed similar instances. Emeline OHara posted in a now-viral TikTok with more than 3million views that during her session, her provider pulls down their pants and uses the toilet in front of me on camera. They started to get up again, at which point I asked: I'm sorry, hold on. Is this actually happening? to which they responded, Yes. Is there a problem? Ms OHara alleged in her video that she immediately ended her session and contacted BetterHelp to report the incident. She said in her video that the company did not do anything in response to her complaint and that she was so negatively affected by the experience, she no longer wanted to seek therapy at all. BetterHelp later commented on her video that the behavior exhibited by the therapist was against policy and warrants an internal quality assurance review. The company responded: 'We are sorry you had this experience. Behavior like this is against policy and warrants an internal quality assurance review at BetterHelp. 'Any therapists found to be in violation of our Terms or the ACA Code of Ethics are promptly removed from our platform. 'We can assure you that this complaint was handled in accordance with that process. Feel free to reach directly with any further questions you may have.' Monae Hendrickson, a 28-year-old content creator, told DailyMail.com she signed up for BetterHelp in August 2023 New York City-based Jake LiBassi posted a recording of his therapy session captioned: When you pay $80/hour for therapy but they cant stop talking about themselves. In it, his therapist can be heard talking about difficulties she is having with Facebook, laughing as the patient nods along silently. The 31-year-old told DailyMail.com he went through four therapists in 2022 before landing on one he finally felt comfortable with. But it wasnt long until his sessions allegedly became more about his therapist and less about him. He told this website that over the three months he attended therapy on BetterHelp, his provider allegedly spent at least half of their 40-minute sessions talking about her life, including showing him pictures of her dogs and kids, as well as talking about the struggles she faced after her children were in a car accident. Mr LiBassi told DailyMail.com: I would ask, Hey, how are you? as a prompt, but it just evolved into a full update on where they lived, how many kids they had and how many dogs and shed show pictures of her dogs and [talk about] life problems. And, at the beginning, it was fine. Then a couple months in, I was like, this doesn't feel right. I'm curious if other people feel this way. Is this normal? 'I've never had therapy before. It feels like we're kind of [not] focused, or the attention is elsewhere. And I didn't feel like I was really getting any benefits from it. I felt for this person but then I realized that this is therapy and now Im feeling more for [her] than for myself. And Im paying [her]. The Brooklyn-based music producer took a break from therapy altogether, saying he was discouraged from seeking additional help. He added: I think it's tough for someone that is using BetterHelp as an entryway into therapy and not knowing better. It's a tough bar to start on and to grasp the understanding of what therapy is supposed to be. BetterHelp therapists are available via video chat, phone or text message The above is an example of the messaging feature on BetterHelp between providers and patients A spokesperson for BetterHelp told DailyMail.com it was 'false' to say its therapists provide no or bad advice during their sessions. 'Nearly all of BetterHelp clients who do their first session continue to have more sessions, far exceeding the industry standard,' the spokesperson said. Still, this apparent crossing of boundaries and lack of professionalism has mental health providers extremely concerned. Shahem McLaurin, a licensed social worker, told DailyMail.com the use of self or practice of self disclosure should be invoked very sparingly and only when it would directly benefit the patient. McLaurin told DailyMail.com negative experiences like this in therapy can be very traumatizing: [This] is something that can take someone who has already navigated and lived through trauma and bring that trauma back to the surface and trigger them again and worsen the trauma. 'The therapeutic relationship is supposed to be one that is safe and to be put in a position where that relationship is unsafe, it also discourages people from considering mental health help in the future.' Dr Ali Mattu, a clinical psychologist who produces therapy-related content for his quarter of a million followers, echoed this sentiment. He said there are a myriad of reasons people put off therapy - stigma, money, anxiety. He told DailyMail.com: If someone is able to overcome all of those things and get help, and the first experience you have is a bad one, one where you feel like the person wasn't listening to you, where you feel like it was crossing a boundary, it didn't seem professional or it seemed very casual... you're probably not going to seek someone else for therapy.' Dr Mattu added: 'It doesn't seem like [BetterHelp] really made it easy for users of this platform to communicate problems with their therapist and to get in touch with licensing boards who regulate these individuals. So all of these things make me want to stay very much far away from this company. Ramsay Dean, a licensed social worker, posted on TikTok that he has concerns about the quality of the providers on BetterHelp BetterHelp was founded in 2013 by Alon Matas and Danny Bragonier in Mountain View, California. It was acquired by Teladoc, a virtual healthcare company, in 2015 for $4.5million and is now available across 200 countries in 44 languages. The company states more than 4million people have received therapy through its platform. In April 2024, Teladoc acting CEO Mala Murthy said BetterHelp brings in $1.1billion in annual revenue. But in financial earnings released earlier this year, Teladoc said BetterHelp revenue fell in the first quarter of 2024 (January through March) by $269million - or four percent. The company said this could be the result of a loss of a significant number of members of BetterHelp paying users, as well as results of litigation. In 2022, a complaint filed by the Federal Trade Commission claimed BetterHelp revealed 5.6million peoples emails, IP addresses and health questionnaire answers to Facebook, Snapchat, Criteo and Pinterest for advertising purposes, despite the company repeatedly telling consumers it would not disclose their personal information. The complaint claimed BetterHelp used patients emails and the knowledge they had previously been in therapy to instruct Facebook to identify similar potential customers and target them with advertising for the platform. In 2023, the FTC banned BetterHelp from sharing patient data for advertising purposes and ordered the company to pay $7.8million to users for deceiving consumers after promising to keep sensitive personal data private. BetterHelp told DailyMail.com that customers have to 'opt-in' for their data to be shared and used in this way. BetterHelp advertises that users can get an appointment in as little as 48 hours It isnt just patients who are having a negative experience, some providers on the platform have complained of being overworked and underpaid, quickly leading to burnout. According to BetterHelp, it has more than 40,000 clinicians working on its platform, including clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, professional counselors and psychologists. Psychologist Dr Mattu told this website that BetterHelp listed him as a clinician participating on the platform, despite having never signed up to offer his services, though DailyMail.com could not verify those claims. GOT A HEALTH-RELATED STORY? EMAIL: Health@dailymail.com Advertisement Each type of clinician requires varying schooling and training, but in the US, most need a masters degree in their field, plus at least one year of supervised full-time experience. In America, those in the most advanced profession psychology undergo six to seven post-grad years of schooling plus hundreds of hours of supervised training. Medical and mental health providers are licensed in individual states across the US. They are not permitted to treat patients in states where they do not hold a license, but the virtual and borderless nature of BetterHelp could make it difficult to police this. Additionally, BetterHelp has been accused of employing unqualified mental health providers. Current terms of service on BetterHelps US website state: We require every Therapist providing Therapist Services on the Platform to be an accredited, trained, and experienced licensed US psychologist (PhD/PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed professional counselor (LPC), or similar applicable recognized professional certification based on their state and/or jurisdiction. Therapists must have a relevant academic degree in their field, at least three years of experience, at least 1,000 hours of hands-on experience. BetterHelp told DailyMail.com the idea that it hires unlicensed staff was 'entirely false and disparaging. BetterHelp only hires experienced and credentialed providers.' The spokesperson said that for US-based therapists to be hired, 'they have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice.' They added: 'While their experience, expertise, and background vary, they all possess at least three years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience.' For non-US-based therapists, 'we require every therapist providing Therapist Services on the Platform to be a registered and/or licensed (as applicable) and experienced counsellor, psychologist, social worker, or therapist,' the spokesperson said. These foreign therapists must have a relevant academic degree and 'have to be qualified and credentialed by their respective professional organization after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training, and practice requirements as applicable.' A TikToker posted that she wished social media influencers would stop promoting BetterHelp's services Katie VanderWeide, a US-licensed social worker who already had a private practice, worked with BetterHelp for several months in 2021 to expand her client base. She told DailyMail.com that to apply, she had to fill out personal information, undergo a background check and provide licensure information. She then had two very brief interviews with BetterHealth consultants where they asked her very easy questions. Ms VanderWeide said: It was to a point where, I think even if you had a license and you had just graduated, if you had no experience, you could very easily get a job. One provider on BetterHelp in the UK told the Financial Times the interview process didnt seem like a professional interview in any shape or form and they were not asked about patient safety scenarios, as is common in interviews for similar roles. Sally Jenkins, a therapist in the UK, told the publication: There was no rigor at all and no robust procedures to ensure I was a safe counselor. BetterHelp refuted claims that it did not properly screen its therapists. 'Our Therapist Onboarding team ensures that every provider we bring to the platform is licensed and in good standing and meets the requirements outlined above,' the spokesperson said. They added: 'Providers who apply are required to provide a valid license and proof of identity. We then cross-check their licensure information with their respective state licensing board. 'Therapists must also undergo a background report, and are subject to periodic checks via the NPDB (National Practitioner Data Bank) registry. 'In addition to these checks, potential providers must also complete a case study graded by a licensed clinician. 'The result of this rigorous process is that less than a third of applicants who apply to work as therapists through BetterHelp are accepted to the platform. 'We also show the full credential information for each provider to make it easy for members to choose who they want to treat them.' Katie VanderWeide, a licensed social worker, was a provider on BetterHelp for three months in 2021 but said she stopped because she had concerns about the company's practices Ms VanderWeide was approved to practice on BetterHelp in less than a week, she said, but only worked there for a few months due to a push to take on too many patients and low pay. BetterHelp advertises that providers can make up to $100,000 working on the platform. When Ms VanderWeide was employed there, therapists got paid, essentially, by the minute. For the first five hours, payment was $30 an hour, but because BetterHelps sessions are only 30 to 45 minutes, compared to Ms VanderWeides typical 50 minutes, she could see two patients in an hour, meaning she was receiving just $15 per patient. Andrew Flynn, also a UK-based provider on BetterHelp, called the companys pay structure very unethical and the company encouraged burnout, as he was holding six sessions a day and feeling overwhelmed, according to the FT. Ms VanderWeide told this website she kept her patient pool pretty small, but received multiple emails from BetterHelp pushing her to take on more clients. In a TikTok, she said the platform pressures therapists to take on 50 clients a week, a number much higher than most providers recommend. Ms VanderWeide added : When youre on BetterHelp, there is a good chance that you are one of out 50 clients on that therapists schedule and you can tell when you are number eight, nine or 10 your therapist is not present with you. McLaurin added: Even 30 clients [a week] is pushing it. As a therapist, I can tell you, once you pass a certain threshold of the amount of clients you're seeing weekly, you burn yourself out. There's no way a therapist would be safe. One of Ms VanderWeides top concerns was BetterHelps use of texting, which she said trivialized the therapy process, crossed boundaries and negatively impacted the provider-patient relationship and overall therapeutic process. Clinicians could not opt out of the texting feature and would be penalized if they did not respond to patients messages within a certain timeframe, she told this website. Ms VanderWeide added: Texting reduces the therapist's ability to assess you When you're [writing] about deep emotional issues, you're missing a lot of data. You're missing a lot of opportunity for a therapeutic relationship to be built... then on top of that, it's hard to then assess for safety. I never used the texting feature, but it would make me feel so deeply uncomfortable if someone was talking about really sensitive issues that are not appropriate to be texting That doesn't feel safe. As negative media coverage plagued BetterHealth, many social influencers stopped promoting the platform. Therapist Mickey Atkins, a content creator, posted a video which has since been taken down in which she criticized the company and voiced concerns over its practices. Recently, however, she said in another post on her Youtube that she received a cease and desist letter from BetterHelp after she posted the video But several years later, the companys advertising seems to be thriving once again. Dr Courtney Tracy, who goes by @the.truth.doctor on Instagram and TikTok posted a sponsored video last month promoting BetterHelp to her 1.8million followers. The Joe Rogan Experience podcast offers an affiliate link for a 10 percent discount. The podcast on Spotify had approximately 11million listeners per episode in 2023 and has been the streaming services top podcast for the last three years. The show has 15.2million followers. Youtubers The Try Guys have 8million subscribers and ads for BetterHelp appear before videos on their channel. A link from their content will give followers a 10 percent discount. Despite BetterHelp's downsides, Dr Mattu recognizes the need the company is striving to meet demand. There arent enough therapists and access to available therapists is limited. Mental health help is difficult to navigate and the secretive nature of therapy can hide bad therapists both virtually and in-person. He told DailyMail.com: Here's where BetterHelp has really done something that is valuable. They are trying to break down the barriers that exist between a patient and a therapist and making it very easy to quickly get help. That is a big deal. It's been very, very hard to do that, but it's not really something that can scale. There's a reason why it's so hard to get a mental health therapist. We don't have enough therapists in enough areas with enough expertise to meet the diverse needs that America has and we're never going to. So having a marketplace like [BetterHelp] that makes it very easy to find help is helpful. This is just absolutely the wrong company to do it. Dr Mattu added: I think this company has the wrong incentives in mind, and it is not run, clearly, by people who have expertise in mental health. It's really run by people who have expertise in scaling tech companies. That's what they're doing here. They're following the exact same playbook we've seen over and over again, but here they're moving fast and breaking minds, not existing products and marketplaces. These problems that they're running into are similar problems that have existed. They're just doing it in a more unethical and prudent kind of way So BetterHelp needs to clean themselves up. A young mother has died unexpectedly in her sleep at just 25 years old leaving her devastated family looking for answers. Ruby-Lee Arnott, from Victoria's Mornington Peninsula, died overnight on July 7, leaving behind three children and her partner who was planning to propose on their anniversary just a few days later. 'We're still trying to come to terms that it's real,' Ruby-Lee's mother Stacey Arnott told Daily Mail Australia. She said Ruby-Lee and her partner Korey had been planning on visiting the Dandenongs where he was going to pop the question with a custom ring he had made. 'It's been very difficult the last few days,' Ms Arnott said. 'Ruby was really such an amazing mother. I was so proud of her, she had so much patience with the kids and did so much with them. 'We don't have any answers yet, which of course makes it harder not knowing,' she said, adding that the family is awaiting the results of an autopsy. 'She had a cold for a few days, so did her partner and kids, and she complained of a sore chest two days earlier to her cousin.' Ruby (left) with her partner Korey (right) and kids Amelia, 7, Chase, 5, and Violet 10 months Ruby-Lee's mother Stacey Arnott (pictured together) said the family are looking for answers A GoFundMe has been launched to help Ruby's family with funeral costs. Friend Angie Galbraith said on the fundraiser that Ruby was a 'vibrant and loving individual who touched the lives of everyone she met'. 'We are heartbroken to announce the sudden and tragic passing of our dear friend,' she said. 'She leaves behind three beautiful young children Amelia, seven, Chase, five, and Violet, 10 months, who will forever cherish the memories of their wonderful mother.' She said any additional funds after the funeral expenses would be used to provide for her children. Another friend Trish Scarlett said the pair formed a friendship at a young age when they were in a sandpit and Ruby made her laugh by pointing out some cat poo. 'Her becoming a mum was all we ever spoke about as kids and, for her to become a mum, it was so beautiful to see,' she told The Herald Sun. 'Her kids are an absolute tribute to how she was as a person.' She described her as 'unique' and a 'rock' and said she would dearly miss her friend. READ MORE: The kids left in agony as the NHS refuses to take out their tonsils Sleeping with the air con on could give you tonsillitis, according to one young Brit hospitalised in Turkey. Liana Foster, from North London, travelled to Antalya in Turkey on a family holiday earlier in this month. But just two days later, the 24-year-old says she woke up 'groggy' and noticed white spots on her tonsils. After rushing to hospital, medics diagnosed her with a 'really bad case' of tonsillitis, which occurs when the tonsils, small glands in the back of throat, are inflamed. Ms Foster, content creator and biomedical scientist was put on an IV drip, and said medics told her that her condition was 'likely' triggered by the 'mouldy air' from her hotel room's aircon.' Liana Foster, from North London , travelled to Antalya in Turkey with her family earlier in July. But just two days later, the 24-year-old says she woke up 'groggy' and noticed white spots on her tonsils After rushing to hospital, medics diagnosed her with a 'really bad case' of the common condition, which occurs when the tonsils are inflammed, and was put on an IV drip Despite waking up feeling unwell after her first night, the decided against visiting the hotel's resident doctor as it was 'expensive'. It was only after feeling 'really bad' on her second morning she attended hospital She said: 'I felt really groggy and got a sore throat as well. I was really shaky. I couldn't eat or drink. 'I thought it was Covid again. My temperature was bad, my body was aching. 'I went to hospital and they said I have a really bad case of tonsillitis. 'They said it can happen from the aircon. It's been pretty dull for the last few days of holiday.' Despite waking up feeling unwell after her first night, she decided against visiting the hotel's resident doctor as it was 'expensive'. It was only after feeling 'really bad' on her second morning she attended hospital. She added: 'The first night we had it [the air con] on really low in the room. 'I think I sleep through my mouth more. It made me ill.' 'The doctor said it was most likely from the aircon. They say it can be mouldy air. 'I couldn't consume oral antibiotics so I had to get injections for three days and twice a day. I was in a lot of pain.' The tonsils two lumps of tissue at the back of the mouth form part of the immune system's first line of defence against bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth, which means they can be easily infected themselves. Tonsillitis symptoms typically get worse over two to four days. The condition itself isn't contagious, but the infections that cause it are. In the majority of cases, tonsillitis either clears up on its own or with a short course of antibiotics. Here, the content creator and scientist claimed doctors also told her it was 'likely' due to 'mouldy air' from her hotel room's aircon The tonsils two lumps of tissue at the back of the mouth form part of the immune system's first line of defence against bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth, which means they can be easily infected But for recurrent or severe cases, surgery to remove the tonsils is the only effective option. While Ms Foster's medics said her infection was likely caused by aircon, the condition can also be caused by a host of common bacterial or viral infections. Ms Foster, who is now on oral medication, said: 'I believe if we didn't sleep with the aircon on it would have been fine. 'I've had tonsillitis before but it has never been that bad. 'If bacteria travels down the throat it can get to her heart and other organs.' Liana now wants to warn others to think twice about sleeping with the aircon on - unless they know it is regularly maintained. Health authorities have issued an urgent warning for a dangerous disease, after multiple people were admitted to hospital with severe issues. Victoria's Department of Health has revealed it is investigating an outbreak of Legionnares' disease after a 'significant increase' in cases across Melbourne since Friday. In the past three days there have been 22 confirmed cases of the disease, with another six suspected cases. Most of the cases are in adults aged over 40, with many of them requiring hospitalisation and intensive care for severe pneumonia. Health authorities are now searching for the source of the outbreak. 'Legionnaires' disease can cause a chest infection with symptoms of fever, chills, cough, headache and muscle aches and pains. Other atypical symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion,' the health department said in a statement. 'All cases have visited or reside in metropolitan Melbourne. 'Those most at risk are adults aged over 40 years, especially people with other medical conditions or immune compromise, or who smoke.' Legionella bacteria at Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory 01 May 2000. legionnaires disease Anyone who develops symptoms is being urged to seek urgent medical care. Test results of those who have the disease have indicated the Melbourne outbreak is caused by 'Legionella pneumophilia serogroup 1' which can be detected through a unitary antigen test. The source of the outbreak is not yet known but investigations are underway to determine where it has come from. Symptoms can develop up to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria, which is found in potting mix and soils and often multiplies in bagged potting mix, mulch and other products. It is also found in rivers, lakes, creeks and hot springs, as well as spas and warm water systems. A more common source of Legionnaires' disease is caused by a different strain of bacteria that is usually found in contaminated airconditioning cooling systems in large buildings. Legionnaires' disease is spread by breathing in fine droplets of water that contain legionella bacteria. It is not commonly spread from person-to-person or by drinking contaminated water. The Department of Health is urging anyone who lives in, works in or has visited metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas to seek urgent medical care if they develop symptoms. A woman who fell 'deathly ill' after eating a common deli sausage linked to a nationwide listeria outbreak is suing its manufacturer. Sue Fleming, 88, who lives with her husband Patrick, 76, in High Ridge, Missouri, ate a Boar's Head liverwurst late last month after buying it from her local grocery store. But in the days that followed she says she developed nausea, diarrhea and stomach cramps, before suffering from shaking and whole-body aches. She was rushed to hospital, where tests confirmed a listeria infection according to the lawsuit. She spent nine days in intensive care and 11 in rehab, but claims she still suffers from neurological symptoms and is yet to regain her full strength. Sue Fleming, 88, and her husband Patrick, 76, are suing deli meats manufacturer Boar's Head and the shop where they purchased the meat after Ms Fleming became 'deathly ill' from listeria She had eaten a Boar's Head liverwurst in the day's before falling ill. This meat is now included in the multi-state recall for listeria contaminated products The couple are now suing Boar's Head for more than $25,000 to cover medical and legal costs, and damage to 'enjoyment of life' and their marital relationship. At least two people have died and 34 have been sickened in the multi-state listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats with the CDC saying others are likely infected. GOT A MEDICAL STORY? GET IN TOUCH health@dailymail.com Advertisement The grocery store mainstay announced a recall of more than 100 tons or 207,000lbs of its meats across 13 states including Illinois, New York and Missouri at the end of last week. It is not clear how the meat became contaminated, but the bacteria can persist on surfaces and get onto slicing tools and countertops without regular deep cleans leading to it contaminating meats and causing an outbreak. The lawsuit, filed in the St Louis County Circuit Court, states: 'Patrick Fleming has lost the love, services, consortium, comfort, instruction, guidance, counsel and support of his spouse. 'Sue Fleming continues to suffer from the effects of her infection, including an array of neurological symptoms, fatigue, and overall weakness.' The married couple had regularly purchased Boar's Head deli meats for years and say they had not previously had an issue, the lawsuit says. They are suing Boar's Head on nine counts, including negligence and breach of implied warrant, and have demanded a trial by jury. The lawsuit also names Schnucks Market as a defendant, the shop where they purchased the meats. Their attorney Ryan Osterholm, from OFT Food Safety and Injury Lawyers based in Minnesota, said: 'Unfortunately, we've seen this before with deli meats. '[Listeria] gets in the facility, and if you're not doing deep cleans often enough, it sticks around. That's how listeria proliferates. The couple say the illness, which Ms Fleming is yet to recover from, has taken the joy out of their life and damaged their marriage. They are pictured above holding a book the pair wrote on how to heal trauma from past abuse 'From there, it gets in the food and it makes people very sick. Then people get hospitalized, and sometimes far too often people die.' Listeria which kills about one in five of those it infects is particularly dangerous for the elderly, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions. These individuals have weaker immune systems, meaning they may be less able to fight off an infection. Symptoms can start a few days to 10 weeks after infection, and initially begin as fever, chills, stomach cramps and diarrhea. But as the infection progresses patients can also suffer from convulsions, loss of balance and confusion. The bacteria may prove fatal if it spreads into the blood and causes sepsis where organs start to shut down or infects nerves and the lining of the brain causing encephalitis inflammation of the brain's lining. Infections can be treated using antibiotics, which is given intravenously and can kill off the bacteria. This Southern state is battling scary rates of cancer deaths, diabetes, and other health woes as millions of residents lack basic health insurance and cannot get an appointment with a doctor. Mississippians often say they languish in a 'health crisis.' These problems came to a head on Monday when the Magnolia State was ranked as having the worst healthcare system in the country. Researchers at WalletHub found that Mississippi has a scarily low numbers of people with health insurance and among the fewest dental clinics in the country. Residents endure the highest rates of strokes, heart disease and infant mortality in the country, they found. Idenia Sturdevant, a sufferer of diabetes, kidney failure, and high blood pressure, is one of many Mississippi residents to experience the state's longstanding healthcare problems The Taborian Hospital lays in ruins in Mound Bayou, in the Mississippi Delta, where poverty and unemployment drive some of the highest rates of diabetes, obesity, and infant mortality Alabama, West Virginia, Georgia and Oklahoma, rounded out the worst five health systems. Those seeking better care should head to Minnesota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Iowa, or New Hampshire, researchers said. Cassandra Happe says tax season is tough They looked at the cost of healthcare in each state, how easy it was to get an appointment, and the overall health of its population. They used data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, The Commonwealth Fund, the US Census Bureau and dozens of other government-led and private groups. Cassandra Happe, who led the research, said the top performers managed to strike a balance between cost and quality. 'The best health care in the nation isn't helpful if it bankrupts the people who try to get it,' Happe said. 'And cheap health care isn't worth paying for if it provides subpar or ineffective treatment.' Mississippi's subpar healthcare has long been a concern for residents. Veteran journalist Peter Keith in May wrote that the state was in a 'life and death' crisis. Lawmakers, he said, should help insurance costs so that people can access early-stage care before they get chronically sick. Soon after, efforts to add an extra 200,000 Mississippians to the Medicaid rolls fizzled and died in the Republican-led legislature. Your browser does not support iframes. A team of nurses and physicians treats a patient at St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota, which is ranked as having the country's best healthcare system Advocates of the change faced opposition from Gov. Tate Reeves, who refers to Medicaid as 'welfare,' and others. This month, Magnolia Tribune columnist Sid Salter warned that staff shortages across rural Mississippi meant that seeing a carer was going to get harder in the coming years. This was especially worrisome for Baby Boomers, who were getting sick but couldn't find a doctor, Salter said. The Commonwealth Fund, a nonprofit, this month found that Mississippi ranks very poorly for women's health. More women die in childbirth in Mississippi than anywhere else in America, they found. They also have the highest rates of cervical and breast cancer deaths in the country. All the while, the state's healthcare system is buckling under the strains of upgrading equipment and storing patient data amid revenue shortfalls. The state's Singing River Health System, a major provider on the Gulf Coast, in May revealed that the personal data of some 900,000 patients had been stolen in a 2023 ransomware attack. By and large, researchers found that Southern states had the worst healthcare systems in the nation. Alabama, Oklahoma, Georgia, West Virginia, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida all ranked in the bottom 10. States in the Northeast, Midwest and Mountain West generally scored at the top of the table. Minnesota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Iowa, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Utah, Vermont, and Maine all ranked in the top 10. Minnesota was praised for having lots of clinics offering quality care at the right price. Minnesotans as a result have among the longest life expectancies in the US and typically get seen by carers in an emergency room within 16 minutes. Rhode Island came second thanks to having high child vaccination rates, plenty of doctors and the lowest average out-of-pocket medical costs in the country. 'The best states for health care are those that make high-quality care affordable, on top of providing many options for doctors and making insurance easily accessible,' Happe added. We have become a nation of coffee drinkers, sipping our way through 500 cups each a year. But when reaching for that first one in the morning, many of us also see it as a good time to take our medications and that's not always a good thing. Researchers have found that coffee can affect how some medicines are absorbed, broken down and removed from the body, sometimes with serious consequences. Blood pressure pills If you are one of the quarter of UK adults with high blood pressure, you might also rethink taking your anti-blood pressure medication alongside your morning coffee. 'Caffeine narrows blood vessels [by blocking adenosine receptors, which are responsible for causing them to widen], which can raise blood pressure,' explains Professor Parastou Donyai, chief scientist at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. 'This can work against medicines prescribed for high blood pressure.' Britain has become a nation of coffee drinkers - sipping our way through 500 cups each year The effect is short-lived, but it can also distort blood pressure readings. Dr Natalie Rout, a GP based in London, adds: 'I'd recommend avoiding coffee completely with blood pressure medications. And [if you do drink it], wait one to two hours after having coffee before measuring your blood pressure, to ensure an accurate reading.' Thyroid drugs Caffeine increases the contraction of muscles that move food through the gut, which means drugs can move too quickly before they can be absorbed. This is a problem for people taking the thyroid hormone drug levothyroxine, prescribed to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) the drug is absorbed through the layer of barrier cells lining the gut. Taking it with coffee can reduce the amount of levothyroxine taken up, because of the increased rate at which it passes through the gut. Dr Rout says: 'Take your thyroid drugs in the morning on an empty stomach and wait an hour before you drink coffee.' Taking it at night is also an option a 2022 study found that levothyroxine was just as effective when taken at bedtime, hours after eating. Heartburn medication Millions of Britons take omeprazole for indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux but caffeine cancels the desired effects of the medication, says Dr Rout. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor, meaning it stops cells in the stomach lining from producing too much acid. Reducing the amount of acid in turn reduces acid reflux symptoms and can also prevent stomach ulcers. Caffeine on the other hand stimulates the secretion of hydrochloric acid. 'Take the omeprazole on an empty stomach, and consider stopping the coffee altogether because hopefully then you don't need to go on the medication at all,' advises Dr Rout. However, she adds, caffeine may not be the culprit: 'As well as caffeine, several things can make acid reflux worse: smoking, alcohol, spicy food, fruit juice and fizzy drinks. Sometimes it takes trials of elimination to determine what the causative factors are.' Blood thinners One medication that people should be extra wary of taking with coffee is the blood thinner warfarin, especially for older people. As Dr Rout explains: 'Every drug is metabolised by the body in a particular way, and many are metabolised in the liver by something called the P450 system [enzymes in the body involved in drug metabolism]. Drugs either 'induce' or 'inhibit' the P450 system. Researchers have found that coffee can affect how some medicines are absorbed, broken down and removed from the body, sometimes with serious consequences 'Caffeine is also metabolised by the P450 system so interacts with certain medications, such as warfarin, causing an increase in the availability of the drug.' Increased levels of the blood thinner mean it takes blood longer to clot, which raises the risk of bleeding. 'I advise taking warfarin with water not coffee to avoid increasing the risk of bleeding,' says Dr Rout. Depression pills The P450 process is also why you might want to rethink taking antidepressants such as fluvoxamine (a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI) with your coffee. (The effect has not been well studied with other SSRIs, such as Prozac.) Fluvoxamine blocks the P450 enzyme, which lengthens the amount of time it takes to clear caffeine from the body. The same process can also counteract the desired effects of ADHD medications, and lead to agitation. As Professor Donyai explains: 'Caffeine is a stimulant [so speeds up the central nervous system, increasing your heart rate and blood pressure], and combining it with stimulant drugs used for ADHD can increase the side-effects of the medication.' These also include irritability and anxiety. Supplements It's not just prescription drugs that people should think about some over-the-counter medications can also interact with coffee. Caffeine prevents the release of a compound called antidiuretic hormone, which, in turn, leads to more urine being produced. This is because antidiuretic hormone controls the amount of water released by the kidneys. Caffeine prevents the release of this compound, resulting in a greater production of urine. As a result, important minerals and vitamins, including B vitamins, magnesium and calcium, can be expelled in urine. Coffee can also reduce absorption of iron (by forming a compound with it that is insoluble, so iron cannot be absorbed by the gut) so doctors recommend having a gap before tea or coffee after taking iron supplements. Some drugs work better with it Headaches: Combining the painkillers aspirin and paracetamol with caffeine can make them more effective. In a study in 1986, scientists in Thailand found that drinking the equivalent of two cups of coffee alongside aspirin led to more of the drug being absorbed. And, in 2019, researchers in Malaysia discovered that caffeine interacted through the P450 system to increase levels of paracetamol in the body. Debbie Shipley, head of information and support services at The Migraine Trust, says: 'Caffeine acts by inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which mediates inflammation and pain at some sites and [works by] blocking certain receptors in the brain called adenosine receptors, which may help to relieve migraines.' She adds that it is important to be consistent with your caffeine consumption, as caffeine can be a trigger for migraines. So if you are taking extra caffeine via your painkillers, you should adjust your coffee and tea intake, by drinking less. Combining the painkillers aspirin and paracetamol with caffeine can make them more effective Movement disorders: Surprisingly, coffee may reduce dyskinesia, a movement disorder that is characterised by uncontrolled shakes, tics or tremors, caused as a side-effect of the Parkinson's drug levodopa. Studies have shown that the effect can be produced by one and a half cups of coffee a day. Michael Schwarzschild, a professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, said: 'Evidence in people and mice shows that caffeine can block action at brain receptors called adenosine A2A receptors, which can prevent dyskinesia. 'This means caffeine may reduce the risk of developing dyskinesia in Parkinson's if paired with levodopa from the start but this needs to be tested in a clinical trial.' The bottom line? 'Generally take medication with a glass of water and wait an hour before any caffeinated drink,' advises Dr Rout. Fast Fords from the eighties and nineties have become very valuable assets in recent years. A dramatic surge in values has seen cars like the fabled Sierra RS500 Cosworth become incredibly collectible, with one example selling for almost 600,000 in February 2023. And another substantial sum of money could change hands in exchange for the keys to another in a matter of days when a 1992 Ford Escort Cosworth goes under the hammer. It's notable for being the car that Ford originally loaned to Jeremy Clarkson as a 'long termer' for six months. But that's not the main reason for why it's going to cause a bidding frenzy on Saturday 24 August... Clarkson's Ford: This very special 1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth is one of three built - and it was also driven for over 7,500 miles by none other than Jeremy Clarkson Like so many performance hot hatches from the 1980s and early 1990s - think Peugeot 205 GTi and Lancia Delta Integrale - the Escort RS Cosworth was a 'homologation special' with the sole role of allowing Ford to take it rallying using the same performance parts. Like its predecessors of the same name, it went on to become an accomplished rally machine. However, it's extreme looks, incredible speed and handling and rarity made the road-going cars almost instant cult favourites. The combination of Cosworth power, four-wheel drive and an extreme aerodynamic package makes it a big favourite among petrol heads who love the blue oval brand. But it wasn't easy to get your hands on one. The Grand Tour presenter was handed the keys to the Escort in 1993 to use as a 'long termer', which he did for 7,500 miles commuting in London and using the Fast Ford as a daily driver Jeremy Clarkson is now famous for his farming enterprise, but back in 1993 he was a fresh-faced motoring journaist The combination of Cosworth power, four-wheel drive and an extreme aerodynamic package makes it a big favourite among petrol heads who love the blue oval brand. But it wasn't affordable when the car was new... That's because just 2,500 road versions were made, becoming known as 'big turbo cars', all capable of 150mph and easily identified by the aptly named 'Whale Tail' rear spoiler. It was also rendered almost uninsurable when new, which we will get to shortly. This particular car, a 1992 model registration 'K38 FMC', stands out from all 2,499 others. It is extremely well known within Fast Ford circles having been loaned by Ford to former Top Gear host and front man of The Grand Tour and Clarkson's Farm, Jeremy Clarkson. During his spell with the car while working at Top Gear, he used the car as his daily commuter. In six months he racked up 7,500 miles, in which time the Escort gulped through 367 gallons of super-unleaded thanks to a return of 21mpg. Despite its rarity, it was employed as a 'tracking car', with the camera man perched in the boot, to film Clarkson driving the then-new Mondeo for a Top Gear segment. The motoring nut turned farmer commuted from his home in Central London in the Ford, in which time it was keyed by 'an oik'. It was repaired not long after. With car crime rife and the Escort RS Cosworth a prime target, getting insurance for one of these Fast Fords in the early 1990s was almost impossible. Clarkson claimed he was quoted 20,000 for cover in 1993 The motoring nut turned farmer commuted from his home in Central London in the Ford, in which time it was keyed by 'an oik'. It was repaired not long after During his spell with the car while working at Top Gear, Jeremty Clarkson used the car as his daily commuter. In six months he racked up 7,500 miles, in which time the Escort gulped through 367 gallons of super-unleaded thanks to a return of 21mpg Clarkson complained of its creaky suspension and the gearknob coming off during gear changes. He then lamented what he believed to be an engine management fault, which would cut the boost of the turbocharged engine. He also referenced the Escort Cosworth's desirability to thieves and the impact it was having on premiums at the time. In 1993 at the tender age of 33, he claimed to have been quoted cover for 20,000. Given the car was sold in showrooms for 19,500, that's more they cost to buy. But Clarkson went on to wax lyrically about the motor with which he had clearly formed a strong bond. The 1992 car still has the original 'K38 FMC' Ford Motor Company registration plate assigned, which it carried when Clarkson was driving it around London Because it is an early model, it has the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a two-stage intercooler developing 224bhp at 6250rpm and 224lb ft of torque at 3500rpm. Ford eventually toned the aggressive turbo down with a smaller turbocharger from 1994, dropping peak power by 10bhp However, there is a more important factor other than it being driven by Clarkson that should make this very car hugely desirable to collectors. It is one of just three prototype pre-production models. Each was meticulously hand built as part of the development programme for this road-going race car. In fact, it is rumoured that each of the prototypes cost in excess of 250,000 to make. It stands apart from a 'standard' Escort RS Cosworth due to a number of unique features, including a lack of a catalytic converter. Because it is an early model, it has the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a two-stage intercooler developing 224bhp at 6250rpm and 224lb ft of torque at 3500rpm. Ford eventually toned the aggressive turbo down with a smaller turbocharger from 1994, dropping peak power by 10bhp. Finished in 'Mallard Green' with a 'Raven Hide' interior, Charles Smalley, specialist at Iconic Auctioneers, describes it as being 'in superb condition throughout retaining much originality'. It even has the original Ford Motor Company registration plate assigned and the underside still has its original factory sealant in place and 'clearly shows that no rectification work has taken place'. Following its stint with Clarkson behind the wheel, K38 FMC was subsequently offered as a competition prize in Top Gear Magazine - which included free insurance for a 12 month period, given the sky high cost to cover it. Finished in 'Mallard Green' with a 'Raven Hide' interior, Charles Smalley, specialist at Iconic Auctioneers, describes it as being 'in superb condition throughout retaining much originality' Iconic Auctioneers, which is offering the Cossie at the Silverstone Festival 2024 sale at the famous British race circuit on 24 August has placed an estimate of 65,000 to 75,000 on its enormous whale tail. With classic and collectible car values softening as of late, this might be a conservative prediction In 2000, the Escort once again fell into Jeremy's hands when it featured in his TV programme, Clarksons Car Years, where he was filmed driving over 'Buttertubs Pass' in North Yorkshire. In the footage, Clarkson excitedly states: 'One of my all-time favourite roads meets one of my all-time favourite cars, the Cossie.' More recently, the present long-term vendor has carried out a full brake and suspension overhaul, fitted a brand new set of NOS genuine wheels and centre caps and improved the superb interior with a new headlining. According to the odometer, the Escort RS Cosworth has clocked 82,514 miles in its lifetime, which is well below average mileage for a 32-year-old motor. The big question is how much could it make? Iconic Auctioneers, which is offering the Cossie at the Silverstone Festival 2024 sale at the famous British race circuit on 24 August has placed an estimate of 65,000 to 75,000 on its enormous whale tail. With classic and collectible car values softening as of late, this might be a conservative prediction. The highest price ever paid for an Escort RS Cosworth is a whopping 163,125 seen last year. However, that example had covered just 76 miles from new. Given this example's provenance and prototype stature, we wouldn't be surprised to see it eclipse what the auction house has estimated. Georgina Energy chief executive, Anthony Hamilton, says he is in the business of well redevelopment. Its blueprint, conceived by technical director John Heugh, is to re-enter wells in Western and Central Australia abandoned in the 1980s, but where the success rate was 100 per cent. This approach is cost-effective for accessing a geological formation perspective for hydrogen and helium, both in high demand in the modern green global economy, as well as traditional natural gas. Work will commence at Hussar in preparation for drilling in December, which is expected to take around 50 days. Georgina is raising around 5 million via a reverse takeover transaction, listing the company on the LSE's standard list The historic nature of Georgina's EP513 target means there's a drill pad, access roads, and [relatively] nearby oil and gas infrastructure. A rig can be mobilised and on-site in days. Hussar is one of two Georgina projects with a combined footprint of 3,951 km - the second being Mt Winter, a farm-in that gives the company the right to earn up to 90% of the asset. To finance development costs, Georgina is raising around 5 million via a reverse takeover transaction, listing the company on the LSE's standard list. It is expected to debut on July 30. After that, the countdown to December begins: The application for drilling permits will be made, while environmental sign-off will be sought. Already in place is a native title land access agreement and a fully costed well re-entry programme. Hamilton and his team will then reprocess additional seismic data and assess the results of recent airborne surveys. The plan is to re-enter EP513 and drill to a depth of around 3,200 meters through existing geological horizons into the Basal Broome and Townsend formations before reaching the targeted granite basement. If all goes to plan, this will be a vertical re-entry, though Hamilton and his experts also have a side-track solution if required. Success would see the company producing helium, hydrogen, and gaseous hydrocarbons, which would require onsite refining facilities. Georgina's lower-risk, low-cost approach involves selling the output at the well-head, with the price based on the product's composition. The customer, or 'off-taker', would be responsible for separation and transportation. Management is evaluating the use of salt caverns for storage and plans to begin negotiations with the owners of a refinery in Darwin, Northern Territory. The processing units themselves are modular, transportable, and scalable. Hamilton and the team first need to drill the well before interpreting the results to see if what they have is commercial. The Georgina CEO said he would be happy with data showing gases with around or over 5% helium and 10% hydrogen. 'A lot of producers around the world are running at less than 1% or 2% [helium],' says Hamilton. 'But the reality is that we have an expectation that it should be five or better.' Georgina has signed a memorandum of understanding with a potential 'off-taker' for the gas, indicating real interest in what the company is doing and what it expects to find. The details of a final deal will be finalized after drilling on EP513 is successfully completed. Hamilton would like to recoup some of the cash invested, allowing the team to transition to the next target at Mt Winter, Northern Territory. The group's exploration licenses Hussar and Mt Winter sit respectively within the Officer Basin and Amadeus area of Australia's Centralian Superbasin, which has a long oil and gas history dating back more than 40 years. A deal with AIM-listed Mosman Oil & Gas gives Georgina the right to earn its 90% stake in Mt Winter (EP155), which will target the Heavitree formation at around 2,650 meters. Three previously drilled wells that have penetrated the Heavitree have encountered helium and hydrogen, with readings of up to 9% for the former and 11% for the latter. So, the prospects for this second well are good. The initial economics supporting the Georgina assets are so positive they seem almost fantastical. Based on the in-situ volumes estimated to be in place, the helium and hydrogen at Hussar alone is valued at US$55 billion, with natural gas worth an additional potential US$5.24 billion. London, with its rich oil and gas tradition, is becoming a magnet for companies like Georgina, with Helium One paving the way. Helix Exploration listed in April, and its shares have soared around 260% since then. Georgina's CPR resource base (at 2U/P50 303 billion cubic feet of helium) is 42% larger than Helium One's and dwarfs Helix's. Between now and December, there will be a plethora of news, including the re-interpretation of historic and new data, permitting, and drill preparation. So, expect the company to stay firmly on the radar. It is easy to see the Georgina story as a slam dunk but it's not. Hamilton and his team have done a lot to mitigate the risk around EP513, but this does not imply a risk-free investment. Even the most experienced contractors encounter unforeseen drilling issues. And there are elements beyond anyone's control. 'What keeps me awake at night? Well, Mother Nature. We have seen flooding in Central Australia and extreme heat,' says Hamilton. 'And of course, we may encounter problems which mean we may have to sidetrack [the well].' Investors backing the upcoming IPO liked the story because it 'isn't just a one-trick pony,' says Hamilton. 'We are in the right commodity space with helium and its global applications. But we also have hydrogen and natural gas. So, I think we have the right assets, in the right location at the right time.' New backers of the business also appreciated that the two founders, Hamilton and Mark Wallace, have invested around 2.5 million of their own cash into Georgina and foregone payment for their services. The City likes that sort of commitment. For all your small-cap breaking news go to www.proactiveinvestors.com. BP and Shell hope to reassure investors this week after disclosing billion-pound losses. Both oil giants are set to share trading updates for April to June. Shares in BP have plunged more than 15 per cent since their peak in April. Earlier this month it announced it was hit with losses between 781m to 1.6billion due to troublesome contracts. It will be hoping the bad news is out of the way and investors can focus on more positive aspects of its update on Tuesday. Reassurance: BP and Shell are set to share trading updates for April to June And rival Shell will also give shareholders an insight into its performance on Thursday. It already reported a loss of up to 1.6billion due to suspending work on a Dutch biofuel plant and selling a Singapore refinery. Shares have dropped 1.4 per cent in the past month. Death toll in India's Gujarat due to suspected Chandipura virus infection rises to 48 Xinhua) 10:15, July 29, 2024 NEW DELHI, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Health officials in India's western state of Gujarat said Saturday that the death toll due to suspected infection of Chandipura virus has risen to 48. Over the past several weeks, there has been a steady increase in cases of Chandipura virus in the state. "So far, 48 people have died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome in Gujarat over the last month, a majority of whom are suspected to be due to the outbreak of Chandipura virus," a health official said. According to Gujarat's health minister Rushikesh Patel, a total of 133 cases of Chandipura virus have been registered in the state. India's federal health ministry said Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a group of clinically similar neurologic manifestations caused by several different viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, spirochetes, chemicals/ toxins. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Tearing up red tape: Nikhil Rathi Britain's financial enforcer will today unveil plans to end bureaucratic box ticking in the City making it much easier for consumers to access investment services. The plans to tear up the consumer rulebook and place new emphasis on outcomes, such as value for money, are designed to unleash a new risk-taking culture and improve Britain's competitiveness with rival markets in New York. The reforms proposed by Financial Services chief executive Nikhil Rathi were signed off by the Treasury late last week and will be presented to the Commons today. Rathi told the Daily Mail that the changes are intended to end the roadblocks which have held back riskier investment in Britain, hindered the London Stock Exchange's ability to gain investor support for initial public offerings and made it harder for UK firms to do international deals and raise funds on the secondary markets. 'There's been a huge amount of reform here at the FCA,' Rathi said. 'I think we have really moved to be operationally different. We have shifted the dial quite significantly in terms of consumer protection with outcomes-based regulation,' he added. And he believes it is now time to give consumer groups the opportunity to provide their views on how they feel about the easing of protections. Among other things, Rathi has not given up on his controversial proposal to 'name and shame' individuals and firms under regulatory scrutiny. The proposal led to noisy criticism of the FCA when it was unveiled before the election campaign. The FCA expects to report on its proposal in the autumn after studying responses from the City, Whitehall and consumers. 'We are moving to a more disclosure-based system. That will allow investors to decide whether they wish to support founders and companies which is the predominant approach in other markets. 'There will be more onus on the stewardship of investors and their engagement with investors and boards,' Rathi said. The FCA introduced a consumer duty, a requirement for firms to be upfront about potential pitfalls for products on sale, last July. Roman Catholics are reviving their grievances against Vice President Kamala Harris after Democrats rallied to her support to replace Catholic President Joe Biden as the 2024 presidential nominee. 'Kamala Harris hates what we believe,' CatholicVote President Brian Burch said in a statement this week, recalling her 2018 attacks against a Catholic judge. At the time, Harris leveled several written questions to Brian Buescher, a nominee for the judgeship for the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska, questioning his membership in the Knights of Columbus, a popular parish Catholic fraternal charity group with over two million members. Harris referred to the Catholic group as 'an all-male society comprised primarily of Catholic men' and questioned its beliefs opposing abortion and same sex marriage. Primarily, Harris questioned whether his membership in the group would allow him to rule impartially on those issues in court. Then-Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., speaks before the Senate on Capitol Hill Buescher replied patiently that his membership in his parish group would not affect his rulings That was a step too far for most Catholics, who described Harris' questions as posing an unconstitutional 'religious test' to serve a position in the legislative branch of government. At this time, Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska reacted sharply by introducing a Senate resolution that specifically said that disqualifying a nominee to the courts on the basis of membership in the Knights of Columbus violated the Constitution. The resolution passed unanimously. But Catholics did not forget. The issue was brought up during the 2020 campaign by former Vice President Mike Pence in his debate with Harris, as he accused her of attacking a judicial nominee because of his Catholic faith. Sen. Kamala Harris attends a funeral at Ebenezer Baptist Church Kamala Harris took the pulpit in 2022, speaking at a funeral service at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Buffalo Harris responded with incredulity, describing herself as a person of faith who found it 'insulting' to suggest she would attack anyone for their faith. Catholic activists now argue Harris is unfit for the presidency, citing her efforts in the Senate. 'Not only is this a gross form of anti-religious bigotry, it's also unconstitutional,' Burch said. Harris' likely nomination as the new presidential candidate puts her faith into the spotlight. While Joe Biden claims to be a practicing Catholic and attends Mass weekly, Harris does not attend public church services regularly. Harris describes herself as a Baptist, as she recalls growing up and attending the 23rd Avenue Church of God in Oakland California with Regina Shelton, a family friend she describes as her 'second mother,' with strong connections to the black South. She spoke about her faith during a 2022 visit to the National Baptist Convention in Houston. 'Faith teaches us that a brighter future is always ahead and we must keep moving forward to realize that future,' she said. 'And to move forward, simply put, I also learned and we all know: Faith requires action.' Harris' Indian mother Shymala Gopalan Harris described Harris as attending the Hindu temple in San Francisco. 'She performs all rituals and says all prayers at the temple,' she said proudly to an Indian news outlet in 2004. Vice President Kamala Harris watches a performance during a reception to celebrate Diwali in the East Room at the White House Kamala Harris and Dough Emhoff celebrate Hanukkah Today, Harris is a member of the Third Baptist Church of San Francisco. Her husband Doug Emhoff is Jewish, and the couple publicly celebrates Jewish holidays together. Harris still offers a nod to her Hindu heritage, however, celebrating the Indian holiday of Diwali at the White House. The 911 call a transgender teenager accused of killing her mother and stabbing her mom's boyfriend when she ran out of bullets has been released. Julia Grace Egler, 16, apparently tried to place the blame on an unidentified masked man that broke into her Palm Bay, Florida home on July 6 and fatally shot her mother Kelley McCollom, 41, and her mother's boyfriend, Matthew Szejnrok, 22. She cried hysterically in the phone call just after midnight, as she told a dispatcher that the masked man must have used a hammer to break the sliding glass back door - changing her story as she spoke. 'I don't think that the door was locked, but I don't think he knew there was a hammer by the back window,' Egler told officers, according to Fox 35. When the operator asked whether it was her family's hammer or if the assailant brought a hammer of his own, Egler replied: 'It was just the house hammer. It was just by the back [inaudible]. 'I think they grabbed it and broke in the window.' Julia Grace Egler, 16, is accused of killing her mother and stabbing her mother's boyfriend on Saturday night Egler said she then grabbed her dogs and hid in her bedroom. She went on to claim that the unknown assailant made 'loud noises,' and she believed he kicked down her mother's bedroom door - but did not dare to enter her bedroom because he wasn't looking for her and was deterred by her barking pit bulls, NJ Advance Media reports. Eventually, Egler said she heard her mom and Szejnrok return home from buying a bed frame - and then heard between five to six gunshots and screaming. 'I couldn't warn her - it's all my fault,' Egler sobbed to the dispatcher. She said she remained in her bedroom for about an hour before emerging to a bloody scene - telling the dispatcher she didn't want to let the dogs out of her bedroom 'because I didn't want them getting blood all over their paws.' Egler also claimed she noticed that her mother's bedroom was kicked in, and that she went into the bedroom to check on a locked box with valuables, where she knew her mother kept a gun in a holster. The holster was empty and ammo was missing, she said. But when asked to describe the man who broke into the house, Egler simply said, 'Oh... it's hard to remember.' Egler (pictured with her mother, Kelley McCollom, 41) had tried to put the blame for the grisly murders on an masked man who broke into their home Police found Matthew Szejnrok's body in the bathroom with several shell casings nearby after he allegedly pleaded with Egler to stop. The 22 year old is pictured, right Her story quickly unraveled when police showed up at the scene of the crime. Detectives noticed that there was broken glass on McCollum's leg, and on top of Szejnrok's phone, which suggests the glass was broken after the two were already killed. They then found the .38-caliber revolver just outside Julia's bedroom window, the bloodstained knife on the bathroom counter, and bloody footprints matching her shoes. Police also said they found droplets of blood, leading from the front door to the bathroom - where Szejnrok's body was found with several shell casings nearby after he pleaded with Egler to stop. None of the many cameras around the outside of the house found any trace of an intruder. Officers eventually brought Egler in for questioning, when she confessed to the double homicide. None of the many cameras around the outside of the house found any trace of an intruder Authorities said she explained that she stole her mother's gun and waited in the kitchen with it and a knife hidden in her pockets for them to arrive home about 10:30 pm. 'Welcome home,' she told them, before she allegedly opened fire on her mother with the .38 caliber revolver, shooting her several times until she was dead. Police say Egler then turned the gun on Szejnrok as he fled to the bathroom and begged for his life, but she repeatedly shot him anyway. When the gun ran out of bullets, she allegedly took out the kitchen knife and began viciously stabbing him on the bathroom floor. Szejnrok, mortally wounded and in agony, 'essentially asked [Julia] to take him out of his misery', the affidavit read. At that point, Egler walked back to her mother's room, loaded another bullet into the revolver, and shot him in the head, police said in an affidavit. Police say Egler, left, had disagreements with her mother, right, about her gender identity and argued with her about dating a 22 year old Palm Bay Police Lieutenant Virginia Kilmer said mother and daughter had 'many disagreements in the previous weeks.' 'Egler cited long-standing conflicts with her mother, including disagreements related to her gender transition, as well as disapproval of her mother's relationship with Szejnrok, as motives for the crime,' he said. She had transitioned transitioned from male to female many years earlier as a young child, appearing as a girl on McCollom's social media pages from at least 2015. Her posts appeared to be very supportive of her daughter's gender identity, always calling her 'my daughter' and sharing sweet photos of them together. Police are now trying to put all of the pieces together - and are specifically looking at past episodes in which McCollom was allegedly abused. One incident occurred with Egler's biological father around 11 years ago, while the other involved Szejnrok in April 2024, Florida Today reports. Szejnrok was arrested in April and was charged with abusing McCollum Police at the time said he and McCollom were arguing in public when he repeatedly grabbed her. Prosecutors dismissed the charges, and he was allowed to return home to McCollom and Julia. His older brother Dustin Szejnrok announced his death in a Facebook post but did not explain that he was murdered. 'Hey everyone its hard to put into words but its easier to share with those who may not have been contacted,' he wrote. 'My youngest brother Matthew Szejnrok has passed away. If you have not been contacted please do not blow up our phones on what happened or how.' Egler is now charged with two counts of first-degree premeditated murder. She being held in juvenile detention, but police said she could be charged as an adult. The investigation is ongoing. A top recruiter has criticised Australians for their poor treatment of retail and hospitality workers amid the cost of living crisis. Tammie Christofis Ballis, a specialist recruiter for Realistic Careers, said many Australians don't understand how challenging customer-facing jobs can be. 'If you're complaining that customer service doesn't exist anymore, it's probably because you're a bad customer,' she said. 'Unless you've worked in those jobs, you don't appreciate how hard they are,' she added. Ms Ballis recounted a recent incident at Kmart where an angry shopper confronted two young employees responsible for checking bags at the front doors. 'She took down their names after they checked her bags and was planning to complain to Kmart customer service about these young kids doing their job,' she said. 'They were literally doing their job, and there's high theft in the area. 'Yet they have to deal with entitled, self-absorbed people who think the world revolves around them. Tammie Ballis, a specialist recruiter, said many Aussies don't understand how hard customer facing jobs can be 'If that's someone like you, you're a terrible customer. I hope you never get served again and get kicked out of every place you go. 'Stop being mean, stop being rude.' Ms Ballis said poor behaviour had increased as the cost-of-living crisis worsens. 'My parents have a takeaway shop, and customers have been really rude lately. They walk in and say things like, "the shop's quiet, give me a discount". 'I know we're in a cost-of-living crisis, I know everyone is struggling at the moment, but they don't get paid enough to deal with your crap.' She said bad customer behaviour was accepted by many employers just to make a sale. 'They want to keep their KPIs and hit their budgets, so staff just put up with it. It seems like no one is protective of staff anymore. It's really sad. 'And employers wonder why people want to work from home.' Aussie workers were quick to applaud the recruiter's comments. 'Thank you, everyone needs to work in hospo or retail for three months at least,' one said. 'Been whistled at and spat at - people have no respect for retail workers,' another added. Many Aussies agreed with the recruiter, with some saying working in retail had affected their mental health (pictured stock photo of a retail worker) 'I worked at Kmart for six years, and my mental health has suffered greatly because of it,' a third said. 'I've been through so much things thrown at me, verbal abuse, and more. It was truly awful, and I feel like I need therapy just from working a retail job.' But some said they were always 'nice' to staff and it was the workers who showed no manners. 'I am always super nice to retail people because I too work in their position but it's rarely reciprocated,' one said. 'Service these days is appalling. That's if you can even find any, and yes, have worked in retail,' a second added. The quest for happiness has thrown up some mad, bad and frankly rather silly ideas in recent years. Practising yoga with goats. Immersion in huge vats of iced water. Eating only purple foods. Meditating upside down. Micro-dosing with magic mushrooms. In fact, it seems we'll try pretty much anything to banish the blues and add a bit of extra vim and verve to our daily lives. The latest happiness fad is heralded as the humble broad bean Vicia faba, or fava bean with a long list of health benefits that puts even spinach to shame. For starters, it is bursting with protein, fibre, iron and vitamin C. It is also good for bone health, combatting high blood pressure and anaemia. In addition, it can help lower cholesterol, boost immunity and aid weight loss. The latest happiness fad is heralded as the humble broad bean Vicia faba, or fava bean with a long list of health benefits that puts even spinach to shame But academics say that's small fry compared to the impact broad beans skin on, ideally can have on our emotional wellbeing But academics say that's small fry compared to the impact broad beans skin on, ideally can have on our emotional wellbeing. Jamie Olivers Orzo with broad beans Ingredients: 1tsp rose harissa; red wine vinegar; olive oil; 1kg ripe cherry tomatoes, on the vine; 1 bunch of spring onions; 1 bulb of garlic; 1 bunch of soft herbs such as basil, dill, mint; 500g broad beans, fresh or frozen; 500g orzo pasta; extra-virgin olive oil Method: - Preheat oven to 150c/300f/gas 2. - In a roasting tin mix the harissa with 1tbsp each of red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. - Add the tomatoes, spring onions and unpeeled garlic cloves. Toss and roast for 1 hour. - Squeeze the roasted garlic from its skin, finely chop with spring onions and most of the herb leaves, then scrape into a pan. - Add the roasted tomatoes to the pan. - Heat the sauce while boiling the broad beans for 2 minutes. - Cook the pasta per packet instructions, then drain and mix with the sauce and beans. - Serve in a bowl with the remaining herbs and olive oil. Advertisement This is thanks to its exceptionally high levels of levodopa, or L-dopa, a naturally occurring chemical used in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease but also linked to long- term improvements in mood, emotion and, in particular, happiness levels. According to Dr Nadia Mohd-Radzman, a Cambridge University researcher and botanist who also works at the Entrepreneurship Lab of King's College Cambridge, it even helps improve a condition called anhedonia the inability to feel or experience pleasure. And it is so effective she insists that if only we'd eat more of them, broad beans could completely transform the nation's health and happiness. 'That is my mission,' she said in a recent interview. 'To get the country to love the broad bean.' And to this end she is doing all she can to promote consumption of the great British broad bean improving its varieties, suggesting tempting recipes and holding a series of lectures about them. It is an impressive and valiant plan, but Dr Mohd-Radzman has her work cut out. Because broad beans originally from the Middle East but grown in Britain since the Iron Age are not universally loved. In fact, while some of us adore them skins on or off and get terribly excited when they're in season, most people seem to loathe them. By my (admittedly very rough) straw poll, at least two out of three British adults and most children seem to dislike the taste, texture, shape, rubbery skin pretty much everything about them. Some say they taste woolly. Others don't like the 'mouth feel'. A lot of people have very strong opinions about whether they should be peeled or not. A few take it further. In her book, The Flavour Thesaurus: More Flavours (Bloomsbury), Niki Segnit categorises them as 'half vegetable, half mammal' for their 'obscurely bloody, offal-like and a bit cheesy' taste. Meanwhile, on Mumsnet, there are endless animated discussion threads in which the beans are dismissed as 'bitter', 'unpleasant', 'rubbery', 'truly disgusting' and, rather more alarmingly, as 'looking and tasting like dead finger pads'. Broad beans are bursting with protein, fibre, iron and vitamin C Broad beans are also good for bone health, combatting high blood pressure and anaemia. In addition, it can help lower cholesterol, boost immunity and aid weight loss Which might seem a bit extreme, but we're not the first to hate them. Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician ordered his followers not to eat them because of their alleged resemblance to a foetus. He said to do so would be like consuming human flesh. Ottolenghis broad bean and herb salad Ingredients: 50g pearl barley; 300g broad beans, fresh or frozen; 1 head of baby gem lettuce; 1tbsp preserved lemon skin, finely chopped; 15g each basil and mint leaves, roughly shredded; 1tspdried mint; 1tbsp lemon juice; 60ml olive oil; salt and black pepper; 60g soft goats cheese; tsp pink peppercorns Method: - Cook the pearl barley in boiling water for 30-35 minutes until al dente, then refresh in cold water and drain. - Boil the broad beans for two minutes, drain, and cool under cold water. Optionally, peel the beans. In a bowl, mix the beans, barley, lettuce, preserved lemon, herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil. - Season to taste and add more olive oil if needed. - Transfer the salad to serving bowls, crumble the goats cheese over, and sprinkle with crushed pink peppercorns Advertisement So perhaps it's no surprise to learn that, while British farmers harvest about 740,000 tonnes of broad beans every year, we eat only a fraction. Most are used as animal feed or exported to Egypt, where they are used to make falafels as an alternative to chickpeas. Which seems a shame. Not least as they are an efficient, sustainable, highly nutritious crop that our farmers are very good at growing. But more importantly because, according to Dr Mohd-Radzman, if we gobbled more broad beans, we'd all perk up and embrace life with a spring in our step and a smile on our lips. And she is not the only one begging us to rethink our relationship with broad beans. A team of scientists at Reading University recently proposed that Britons should switch to bread made with broad beans. They argued this would be healthier than wheat loaves, with an 'improved nutritional profile' and better for the environment. Others have been eulogising about broad bean milk an interesting idea, but perhaps not one to ask for in your cappuccino. Broad beans have another unusual benefit, too though this one is strictly 'non-nutritional' Researchers at Iran's Mashhad University recently found they can also slow down hair growth with 'no significant side effects'. For their study, a cream with a 20 per cent bean content was applied to 25 ladies' armpits, twice a day, for three months. This reduced the number and thickness of hairs with 'no significant side effects'. Again it is L-dopa which works the magic. It is converted by the body into dopamine which shrinks the blood vessels that stimulate hair growth. However, broad beans do need to be handled with care. For, it wasn't just Pythagoras who avoided them. A very small number of people in the Middle East and Mediterranean are susceptible to developing a rare blood disorder, haemolytic anaemia, from eating broad beans. But Dr Mohd-Radzman has a solution. She says farmers could grow bean varieties with low levels of the triggering chemicals and points out that scientists are also working on creating genetically edited beans with none whatsoever. So, all in all, a wonder food to rival all others. If only more than a handful of us could be persuaded to actually eat them. Perhaps the delicious recipes, above, might change your mind... READ MORE: Another former immigration detainee is arrested Nat Barr has unleashed at Anthony Albanese's government after he announced a reshuffle of his cabinet. Clare O'Neil has been dumped from Home Affairs and moved to the Housing and Homelessness portfolio, while Andrew Giles was removed from Cabinet entirely after being sacked as Immigration Minister. Mr Albanese defended his ministers despite moving them on after a High Court ruling which released more than 150 detainees caused a major political headache for the government. Many of the detainees had serious criminal convictions, including murder and rape. According to figures released in March, one in five former detainees has been charged with new crimes since their release. Barr confronted NDIS Minister Bill Shorten about the reshuffle on Monday morning and asked if it was an admission that the government had failed on the immigration detention saga. 'Not at all,' Mr Shorten responded. 'Claire O'Neil is moving to housing after the good work she's done in cyber security and the three reports identifying the mess-ups Peter Dutton made. She's now going to be our lead spokesperson on housing.' But Barr was not impressed with Mr Shorten's response. 'How can we be talking about mess-ups from the Opposition when there were clearly mess-ups with Immigration,' Barr asked. Sunrise host Nat Barr clashed with Government Services and NDIS Minister Bill Shorten in a heated exchange over the government's immigration 'failure' for freeing detainees 'The detainees were released, one-fifth of them reoffended 28 out of 153. Where was the application to return any of them to prison? It was a failure by anyone's language,' Barr declared. Mr Shorten hit back, saying the detainees were released because of the High Court's decision. 'And then what happened?' Barr asked. Mr Shorten replied: 'What happened is we put in place a regime to make sure we can get these people back under control. 'Of course, what happened with the assaults is terrible, but the High Court, after 20 years, turned the law on its head. The reality is that I wish Peter Dutton had drafted stronger laws so the High Court couldn't find the loopholes.' Barr continued to unleash on Shorten. 'Bill, we had rapists and domestic violence offenders using a ministerial direction made by Giles to stay in this country. How is he a success?' she asked. Mr Shorten disagreed with the Sunrise host, explaining that the ministerial directions were the same ones used under the previous government. Barr interjected, adding that Mr Giles introduced Direction 99 in 2023. The contentious order required the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to consider an individual's community ties when reviewing deportation appeals. The directive has been tied to several cases where non-citizen criminals had their visa cancellations overturned, allowing them to stay in Australia. 'Nat, that's the third interruption,' Mr Shorten fired back. 'I'm telling you the facts of the matter. The High Court was the entity that changed the law. We've been trying to fix it ever since.' Barr added that Australians were 'angry' at the government's reaction to the High Court decision, claiming that, if there was no problem, a cabinet reshuffle would not have been needed. Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce labeled Mr Giles' handling of the High Court decision as a 'complete fiasco'. 'Why did this guy last so long? Why is he still there? Not only does [the reshuffle] show he was bad, but it shows how bad he was. In fact, he wasn't just bad; he was atrocious.' Disturbing footage has captured the moment a gay couple claim they were targeted by strangers and pelted with sand at a European beach because of their sexuality. Aussie man Ricky Liu and his boyfriend Craig were taking photos in the water at Bacvice Beach, near the coastal city of Split, in southern Croatia, around 3pm on July 12. Mr Liu, who lives in London, noticed children were throwing sand towards them and thought they were just pulling a prank. He uploaded a video to TikTok afterwards claiming the reason for the act was much more sinister. 'I walked up to them and I was, like, "can you please stop throwing sand at us?",' Mr Liu said. He claimed the group taunted him for being gay. Footage captured the Aussie speaking to several of the children during the altercation before sand was thrown in his direction. Mr Liu said some of the sand got caught in his eye and and confronted the group a second time after deciding he had enough of the 'bullying'. Ricky Liu (pictured left) and his boyfriend Craig (pictured right) were taking photos at the beach when children allegedly began to throw sand at the couple Mr Liu was seen in the video telling one of the children that he was recording the incident and that he would have no hesitation sending it to police. 'I was recording the whole time. I was fearful for my own safety, but also I will not let this injustice go unrecorded,' Mr Liu said. The couple, who were also with a friend, then decided to head back to shore but claim they continued to cop abuse from strangers. Mr Liu claimed a man and a woman threw pebbles and cigarettes at them before the woman spat on the ground while they were getting dressed. As they walked away from the beach, Mr Liu said a man followed them and pushed Craig into a tree before punching him. 'If you're gay and you go to Croatia, you need to watch out,' he said. 'I have to be fearful of my safety for the rest of my holiday.' Mr Liu, who was on holidays in Croatia, claimed a man and a woman allegedly threw pebbles and cigarettes at the couple after they got back to shore (stock image) Social media users were quick to share their disgust at the behaviour shown by the strangers. 'I'm so sorry that you had to experience this,' one wrote. 'Im so sorry this happened to you. I was in Split this summer and luckily [I] didnt experience this however, many people were quick to judge and stare,' another said. Mr Liu uploaded another TikTok video last Sunday and claimed the man who punched his partner has since been charged. He said Croatia Police are now in contact with his friend. Croatia Police said in a statement that a 31-year-old man, who allegedly attacked Craig, was arrested in the Virovitica area on July 14. 'In relation to the other participants, it was determined that they were children under the age of 14,' police said in a statement. 'Given the fact that a child under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Croatia is not criminally liable, criminal and/or misdemeanor proceedings cannot be initiated against them'. Police said they are cooperating with authorities overseas to conduct an interview with the couple as part of their investigation. Anthony Albanese has called for Barnaby Joyce to be sacked for using a violent election metaphor in the wake of the assassination attempt against Donald Trump. The former deputy prime minister had been speaking at an anti-wind farm rally at Lake Illawarra near Wollongong, in NSW, on Sunday. He urged locals to vote down the offshore wind turbines, comparing a ballot paper to a bullet, and claimed their 'greatest weapon' was 'to turn up in numbers'. 'The bullet you have is a little piece of paper, it goes in the magazine called the voting box,' Mr Joyce said. 'Its coming up. Get ready to load that magazine. Goodbye, Chris. Goodbye, Stephen. Goodbye, Albo.' Mr Joyce had been referring to Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. On Monday, the Nationals MP was confronted by Sunrise host Natalie Barr over his choice of metaphor in light of the assassination attempt in the US on July 13. Mr Trump was delivering a speech at a Pennsylvania rally when 20-year-old gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire on him. On Monday morning, Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce (pictured) was confronted by Sunrise host Natalie Barr over the choice of image, especially in the wake of US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump's shooting The former US president took a grazing shot to the ear before he was rushed off stage with blood on his face. Rally attendee Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed. Mr Albanese demanded Opposition Leader Peter Dutton take immediate action against Mr Joyce. Poll Should Peter Dutton sack Barnaby Joyce over his comments at the rally? Yes No Should Peter Dutton sack Barnaby Joyce over his comments at the rally? Yes 181 votes No 799 votes Now share your opinion 'That is completely unacceptable. Peter Dutton has had four reshuffles, he should have a fifth. Barnaby Joyce should go,' he told Sky News. 'This is the sort of language which has no place in any part of Australian society, let alone in public life. 'And here you have a guy going to a rally calling for action. Using an analogy of guns, bullets and magazines. 'What does this bloke have to do to lose his job?' Mr Joyce came under fire from Barr earlier in the morning for his use of the metaphor. 'Barnaby, do we need to be using "bullet" in the lead-up to an election?' the Sunrise host asked. Mr Joyce was at first defensive over his use of imagery. 'The ballot paper is the weapon you have. It shouldnt be a bullet, it should be a ballot paper and the ballot box,' he responded. He then went on a rant in which he compared wind turbines to dog poo. Mr Trump (pictured) was delivering a speech at a Pennsylvania rally when 20-year-old gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire on him 'It is like saying the fertilising capacity and the beauty of dog turd on your lawn in the middle of the morning works as well,' he said. 'And so wind towers are like dog turds in the ocean, dog turns in the environment absolutely disgusting. Nobody wants them.' But Barr pressed him further on his use of violent imagery. 'But the language, using the word "bullet" theyve had an assassination attempt in the US do you think its a good use of that word?' she said. Mr Joyce, appearing visibly frustrated, bit back before NDIS Minister Bill Shorten, who was also appearing on the program, also offered his criticism. 'Barnaby obviously feels very passionately about wind towers,' he said. 'But I think if he had his time again he shouldnt be using the metaphor of bullets and magazines. There are enough words in the English language. 'Barnaby, sometimes in politics we speak first and because our passions take over. 'Smartest call here, would be just to say apologise for using that metaphor because weve had the Donald Trump assassination attempt.' Mr Joyce eventually gave in to the pressure and offered an apology. 'Here we go,' he said. 'I apologise for using that metaphor. Ive done it on Sunrise.' In 2018, Mr Joyce was sent a bullet and a threatening note by an environmentalist who was later handed a two-year suspended prison sentence and a fine of $4,000. At the time of the incident, Mr Joyce said that it was 'the sort of garbage we have to put up with (as politicians)'. 'This is not the sort of politics we want in Australia,' he added. GPs have threatened to bring the NHS to a 'standstill' with unprecedented industrial action that includes slashing the number of appointments by a third. The British Medical Association is urging family doctors back the disruption in a ballot that closes at midday today. Patient groups last night described the move as 'selfish' and warned GPs risk harming those in need of care - and losing the public's support. One NHS chief said the effect of a cap on the number of appointments could be 'catastrophic'. It is feared as many as 3 million GP appointments a month could disappear if all family doctors kowtow to the BMA demands to slash numbers to just 25 a day. Some currently do 50, while the average is 37. It is feared as many as 3 million GP appointments a month could disappear if all family doctors kowtow to the BMA demands to slash numbers to just 25 a day BMA representatives have previously met with Health Secretary Wes Streeting (pictured) The action would start as early as this Thursday and last for 'months'. The union say GP funding is being squeezed and the terms of a new NHS contract means 'many surgeries will struggle to stay financially viable'. But GP partners, who own their practices and account for the majority of family doctors, earn an average of 153,400 a year - despite only one in three working full-time. If GPs back the vote, they will be asked to take part in up to nine forms of protest, including one which would put a cap on the number of daily 'patient contacts'. This includes face-to-face appointments, remote consultations and online messages. The BMA says practices should limit these to 25 per GP per day, which is a third less than the current typical workload. Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer, chair of the BMA's general practice committee, said family doctors will not be 'striking' but taking part in 'collective, premeditated, disruptive action' adding that the last time GPs took collective action was in 1964 when family doctors collectively handed in undated resignations to the Wilson government. GP workforce data for May 2023 shows there are 27,200 fully-qualified GPs in England. This is down from 27,627 one year earlier. GP numbers peaked at 29,537 in March 2016 Separate figures show only 68.3 per cent of appointments were held face to face in November down from around 80 per cent pre-pandemic. It is also the lowest figure so far this year The graph shows the ratio of GP patients to practices since 2015, with an average of 9,755 patients per surgery in May 2023 A proportion of GPs staged industrial action in 2012 in protest against increases in pension contributions and a later retirement age for doctors. Estimates suggest that between a fifth and a third of practices took part in the action. She claimed the proposed action is aimed at hitting NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care, rather than patients. But Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices, which campaigns for the over-60s, told the Mail: 'Our members, who are already struggling to obtain timely doctors' appointments, will be bemused and angered by this premature action by GPs. 'Having taken no disruptive action of this sort over the five years of the last Government, despite broken promises over recruiting more doctors, they are not giving negotiations a chance with the new Government. 'It is risible to say that the action is aimed at NHS England when it will be patients who suffer from further restrictions on appointments. 'The proposed action will just mean that more patients are forced to overload accident and emergency departments. 'Some older patients will be turned away from their GP practice and will go home, risking the symptoms worsening.' He added: 'Silver Voices has supported the call for more resources for primary care and is sympathetic to GP workloads, but this selfish action over the detailed terms of generous contracts, risks losing the support of the public for their cause. 'The way to resolve these issues is mature negotiations, not sabre-rattling.' Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, told the Guardian: 'If all GPs implemented the patient cap, that could have a catastrophic effect on the entire healthcare system. 'General practice is now supporting more patients than before the Covid pandemic, so any reduction in their activity will put more pressure on other services, including A&E.' Your browser does not support iframes. The ballot, which opened on June 17, could potentially mean GPs also stop performing work they are not formally contracted to do; refuse to cooperate with local data sharing arrangements; and ignore NHS 'rationing' restrictions on drugs. Last Monday, NHS England told local health leaders to prepare for a 'reasonable worst-case scenario' in relation to the GP industrial action and warned it could affect the 'whole system', including A&Es. And Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, previously chair of the Royal College of GPs, told the NHS England board meeting on Thursday that the NHS is 'already starting to see tension' as a result of GP practices 'pulling back' from doing discretionary work. GPs have not taken action since 1964 when family doctors collectively handed in undated resignations to the Wilson government. But the BMA has led recent walkouts by junior doctors and consultants, hampering efforts to clear waiting lists that built-up during the Covid-19 pandemic. The BMA has said the new GP contract, which will see services given a 1.9 per cent funding increase for 2024/25, means many surgeries will struggle to stay financially viable. But official figures from NHS Digital show GP partners have seen their earnings - taken from practice profits - increase by 31 per cent in recent years. Dr Bramall-Stainer revealed the action has been designed to be 'easy, sustainable and effective', adding: 'If it's done effectively, it's done collectively and it's done well, it will bring the NHS to a standstill very quickly - but not for patients, for all the NHS admin, the policymakers who have put in place these decisions that aren't helping patients.' GPs launched a formal dispute over the issue in April after a referendum carried out by the union found 99 per cent of 19,000 GPs rejected the contract. Dr Bramall-Stainer said: 'We don't want to put patients as piggy in the middle - we live in our communities with our patients, there are no barriers between us. 'We get a lot of the flak from the failings of the NHS and we agree with our patients and it's quite exhausting. The last thing we want to do is pitch patients against us. 'I don't think patients will really notice very much difference at all. And that's the plan.' Dr Bramall-Stainer met with Health Secretary Wes Streeting on July 18 and union leaders hope such talks will continue. Earlier this month she set out a number of asks of the Government, including a new Family Doctor Charter; a 'minimum investment standard' for general practice; an ask to build 'real-terms re-investment' into general practice; and a call for 'GP-to-patient list size ratios'. Mr Streeting's first official visit in his new role was to a London GP surgery on July 8, where he pledged to 'bring back the family doctor' and 'fix the front door to the NHS'. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'The Health and Social Care Secretary has met with the chair of the BMA's GP committee to discuss their priorities ahead of their ballot closing on July 29. 'However, it is important we plan for all contingencies, in every eventuality, to keep patients safe.' NHS England said: 'We are continuing to work with GPs, the BMA and the government to avert any potential action but in the meantime the NHS has a duty to plan for any possible disruption and to ensure services continue to be provided for patients, so we will continue to work with local systems to help them plan in the event that collective action does go ahead.' A series of bombshell text messages from countersnipers who were supposed to protect Donald Trump at the Pennsylvania rally where an assassin's bullet nearly killed the president showed them a step behind the gunman. A massive inquiry has started in the wake of the attempt, which Trump miraculously survived, with the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle coming soon after the July 13 shooting. Now, it appears a group chat of those meant to protect Trump were aware that gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was in their midst over 90 minutes before Trump was shot at, rather than an hour as the FBI had previously claimed. When one of the three countersnipers was about to call off at the end of their shift at around 4:26pm, they noticed a man who they later confirmed to be Crooks sitting on a picnic table. 'Guys I am out. Be safe,' he wrote. 'Someone followed our lead and snuck in and parked by our cars just so you know. I'm just letting you know because you see me go out with my rifle and put it in my car so he knows you guys are up there,' he wrote. A series of bombshell text messages from countersnipers who were supposed to protect Donald Trump at the Pennsylvania rally where an assassin's bullet nearly killed the president showed them a step behind the gunman It appears a group chat of those meant to protect Trump were aware that gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks , 20, was in their midst over 90 minutes before Trump was shot at, rather than an hour as the FBI had previously claimed When one of the three countersnipers was about to call off at the end of their shift at around 4:26pm, they noticed a man who they later confirmed to be Crooks sitting on a picnic table Your browser does not support iframes. He added that Crooks was 'sitting to the direct right on a picnic table about 50 yards from the exit' in a message sent at 4:27pm, a little over 90 minutes before the gunman fired. The two other counter-snipers responded with a thumbs up emoji and a 'Roger that' according to the texts, which were obtained by the New York Times from local law enforcement. Another screenshot is timed at around 5:38pm, after Crooks left the picnic table and was beneath the countersnipers, who had perched themselves in a warehouse. One of the two remaining snipers photographed Crooks multiple times and texted the pictures to the group chat. 'Kid learning around building we are in,' one wrote. 'I did see him with a range finder looking towards stage. FYI. If you wanna notify SS snipers to look out. I lost sight of him.' Witnesses reported having seen Crooks crawling onto the roof of the American Glass Research building. At 5:40pm, the other countersnipers tells them to call in the report of Crooks. Within the next half hour, the gunman would be dead and Trump would be photograph with blood coming from the area around his ear. Crooks, was captured in a chilling video lurking near the former president's rally stage just an hour before he unleashed a hail of bullets. One of the two remaining snipers photographed Crooks multiple times and texted the pictures to the group chat Another screenshot is timed at around 5:38pm, after Crooks left the picnic table and was beneath the countersnipers, who had perched themselves in a warehouse. One of the two remaining snipers photographed Crooks multiple times and texted the pictures to the group chat The disturbing footage, shot by someone in the crowd, appears to show the 20-year-old gunman stalking around a building he would climb 60 minutes later in order to get the perfect vantage point from which to target Trump. In the harrowing clip, obtained by local station WTAE, Crooks does not appear to be holding the AR-style rifle he used to shoot Trump through the ear at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday. The cameraman said he had been trying to capture the large crowd waiting to watch the Republican nominee speak, but later realized he had caught a more terrifying detail in the background. The footage was revealed amid a series of stunning developments Wednesday that raise more questions about the massive security failure that led to the attempt on Trump's life and claimed the life of a local firefighter who died protecting his family from the gunfire. It emerged the gunman's' father called police on the day of the shooting because Crooks didn't return from what he thought was a routine Saturday trip to the local gun range. And it was revealed Crooks was at the former president's rally three hours before opening fire, even sparking the suspicions of the Secret Service during that time because he was carrying a rangefinder used by hunters to take long shots. But he was never stopped or questioned. At 5:40pm, the other countersnipers tells them to call in the report of Crooks. Within the next half hour, the gunman would be dead and Trump would be photograph with blood coming from the area around his ear Donald Trump's would-be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks is seen lurking near the rally stage just an hour before he opened fire in chilling new video He later climbed onto the roof of the building he was lurking near, shot Trump and killed retired volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore. Crooks had told his boss he needed the day off from work Saturday and gave colleagues a final chilling message: That he would be back on Sunday. The gunman searched online 'how far' Lee Harvey Oswald was from John F. Kennedy when he shot him, FBI Director Christopher Wray revealed in stunning testimony to Congress earlier this week. FBI Director Christopher Wray also told lawmakers the 20-year-old gunman flew a drone 200 yards from the stage just two hours before he opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, and had three explosives in his car. The bombshell revelations from the bureau's chief give more insight into Crooks' preparation before he shot the former president, including his online research on the sniper that took out JFK in 1963. Wray said Crooks had been 'interested in public figures' and 'somewhere around July 6 or so he became very focused on former President Trump and his rally.' The director said an analysis of Crooks' laptop revealed he had searched on Google on July 6 'how far away was Oswald from Kennedy.' It was the same day he registered to attend the Butler rally. Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed former President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The Warren Commission report that analyzed the Kennedy assassination assessed that Kennedy had been shot through the neck at a range of 174.9 feet to 190.8 feet. When one of the three countersnipers was about to call off at the end of his shift at around 4:26pm, he noticed a man who proved to be Crooks sitting on a picnic table Witnesses reported having seen Crooks crawling onto the roof of the American Glass Research building Crooks was flying a drone above the rally site two hours before the shooting and just 200 yards away from the stage, Wray has also revealed. Wray made the bombshell revelation to Congress on Wednesday during a grilling by lawmakers on the investigation into the assassination attempt on the former president and the massive security failures. Trump managed to survive the attempt on his life during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania and was quickly bundled off stage by the Secret Service. The FBIs assessment continues to be that Crooks, who was killed by a Secret Service counter sniper, acted alone. On Tuesday, Kimberly Cheatle resigned as the agencys director amid mounting questions over her the colossal security failures at the rally. Cheatle took responsibility for the catastrophic lapses after she was lambasted by Republicans and Democrats alike when she appeared before Congress on Monday. In a staggering moment, Cheatle admitted on Monday her agents on the ground were warned between two and five times that there was a 'suspicious person' reported before Trump took the stage. The security chief had faced mounting questions over why an agent was not stationed on the roof from where Crooks opened fire on the former president, and why Trump was allowed to take the stage even when a threat was detected. The FBI is investigating the shooting by Crooks at a Trump rally as an act of domestic terrorism Crooks had been identified as a suspicious person hours before the shooting took place. The security chief had faced mounting questions over why an agent was not stationed on the roof from where gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire on the former president, and why Trump was allowed to take the stage even when a threat was detected. She had also been ridiculed for suggesting her agency did not have a presence on the roof because it was 'sloped.' Wray said Crooks used mechanical equipment on the ground and vertical piping, to hoist himself up onto the roof of a squat manufacturing building that was within 135 meters (157 yards) of the stage. He fired eight shots from an AR-style rifle before he was killed. While Trump walked around with little more than a bloody ear, Crooks killed former fire chief Corey Comperatore, 50, and critically injured two other rally goers sitting close to where the former president was speaking last weekend before he was neutralized. Cheatle has taken blame for the fateful security breach, but has denied calls to step down. 'The buck stops with me,' she said. On Tuesday, Kimberly Cheatle resigned as the FBI's director amid mounting questions over her the colossal security failures at the rally 'It was unacceptable,' she told ABC. 'And it's something that shouldn't happen again.' Trump has defended a 'brave' female Secret Service agent who 'shielded' him during his attempted assassination after she was attacked by online trolls. The former president praised the female agent and said she 'wanted to take a bullet' under fire after critics suggested that women were not qualified for such positions. Also coming into question on the call was the possible motive for Crooks to commit such an atrocity. Officials did not confirm an operating motive and said that his rationale remains a mystery. Authorities said that they have yet to find any ideological material that could shine light on why Crooks decided to shoot the former president. Police chiefs are rallying behind an officer who was suspended from duty after kicking a teenager in the head - as the family of the victim say they have 'real concerns' for the cops who were injured in the lead-up to the incident. Greater Manchester Police was plunged into crisis last week after horrifying footage emerged of an officer kicking Muhammed Fahir, 19, while he was arrested alongside his brother Amaad. The violent arrest at Manchester Airport - captured on bystanders' mobile phones - sparked angry demonstrations in Rochdale, where the brothers are from, amid allegations of racism and 'police brutality'. The male officer filmed kicking Fahir has been suspended and placed under criminal investigation for assault by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. But a CCTV clip obtained this weekend has shed more light on the incident as it shows Fahir attacking three officers just seconds before he was kicked on the ground. The new footage of the officer in question and two female colleagues coming under attack shows 'we need to protect the protectors', the Greater Manchester Police Federation has said. This is the moment in the original footage that sparked controversy after a police officer was seen kicking the young man on the ground in the head - but new footage has now shown what happened in the moments running up to this The federation added that the new video casts the incident in a 'very different light'. Richard Cooke, chairman of the West Midlands Police Federation, agreed and said the fresh clip gave a 'different perspective altogether', adding: 'We lost over 5,000 colleagues in the year to March voluntarily leaving. Assaulted repeatedly, poorly paid for the risks, slagged-off by clueless idiots. 'After this week that trend will only accelerate. I don't blame any of them.' It comes as colleagues of the suspended officer refused to carry their weapons in a show of support. A source close to the firearms unit told The Sun: 'There is real anger at the way this has been handled and they didn't feel they could safely carry their weapons after the officer was suspended.' They said at the point the officer kicked Fahir's head, he was 'disoriented' from being punched in the face and feared his gun had been snatched. The controversial TikTok lawyer who was representing Fahir and his brother dramatically dropped the case last night after the new video emerged. Yakoob released a video on Instagram on Sunday night, declaring: 'After consulting with the family I have decided for now to step aside and I have recommended the family to a lawyer'. He claimed widespread attention surrounding the case was 'unfair on the Greater Manchester Police and the family'. He added: 'I will be keeping a close eye on this. 'I would like to say that I am not for violence whether it's from police officers or it's from civilians, always remember that.' His shock announcement came just hours after he said that 'nothing can justify' the actions shown by police. New footage has shown the moments before a Greater Manchester Police officer was filmed kicking a teenager in the head at Manchester Airport The new footage shows Fahir seemingly hitting a female police officer with a punch to her head As the first officer points his Taser at Amaad, Fahir grabs him from behind in a chokehold One female police officer can be seen slumped to the ground, while the other is hit by Fahir The police officers attempt to bring the men under control after the scene descended into chaos He said: 'After reviewing the CCTV footage from Manchester Airport, nothing can justify a kick to the head to a defenceless man and a stomp to the head. 'Those are my views. These officers are highly trained, they shouldn't be losing control or seeing red.' GMP said one of the two female police officers suffered a broken nose during the violent assault. During the melee, two officers were punched to the ground before officers were able to restrain the suspects with Tasers. The family of the man kicked in the head have said they have 'real concern for any police officer injured'. A source representing the family involved told the BBC: 'If anyone broke the law they should face due process.' In response to Greater Manchester's Mayor Andy Burnham's calls for people to withhold judgement until they have the full context, they said there is 'no context justifying an assault when someone is on the ground'. But yesterday, former Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Kevin Hurley it was now clear that the officer - who was himself punched to the floor and grabbed in a chokehold - had been 'frankly the hero' of the situation. 'That one guy saved the situation and actually, frankly, saved his colleagues,' he told LBC radio. 'Sometimes you have to do nasty things to people.' Sharing the video on X - formerly Twitter - Chief Inspector Melanie Simmons, head of custody at Devon and Cornwall Police, expressed her 'genuine disgust at seeing the appalling and protracted violent assaults that multiple officers sustained'. She added that given the incident took place at a 'high security location', the firearms officers were 'very composed in these circumstances given they only drew Tasers and left their handguns in their holsters'. Ex-armed response officer Harry Tangye accused Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Rochdale MP Paul Waugh and Greater Manchester chief constable Stephen Watson of 'pandering to mob rule' by backing the investigation into the policeman seen kicking the teenager. Fahir (pictured) is seen punching a female police officer in the face, breaking her nose, before knocking down a second woman officer Accusing them of showing 'no leadership or moral courage', he posted: 'I would argue it is NOT in the public interest to prosecute these officers. 'Show a backbone for once and reinstate the officer.' Former Scotland Yard detective Peter Bleksley said the 'dreadful' clip showed a 'disgusting level of violence being meted out on police officers'. He told GB News that it was now clear that in addition to the probe into the officer, there should be a 'criminal investigation for a revolting, disgusting appalling level of violence'. The CCTV clip - obtained by the Manchester Evening News - shows the male officer grab Fahir at a car park pay station, apparently over an earlier confrontation with a passenger. His brother Amaad then throws a barrage of punches, leaving the officer slumped on the floor. Lawyer Akhmed Yakoob (centre) with Fahir (left) and Amaad (right). He has said 'nothing can justify a kick to the head to a defenceless man and a stomp to the head' after seeing the new footage of the Manchester Airport incident. He has since dropped the case Akhmed Yakoob, who was representing the two brothers involved in the incident, said the new footage does not change his views on the incident Fahir - dressed in light blue shorts - then punches a female officer, breaking her nose, before smashing a second policewoman to the ground. As the first officer points his Taser at Amaad, Fahir grabs him from behind in a chokehold, only to be Tasered himself by the injured policewoman. Both brothers were arrested on suspicion of affray and assaulting an emergency worker before being released on bail. Making a renewed call for calm, Mr Burnham yesterday said the latest clip showed there were 'two sides' to this 'complicated situation'. 'If the whole picture had been put out straight away it would enabled people to make a more rounded judgement,' he told BBC Breakfast. 'The social media age we are living in now, people end up taking a side, but life is more complicated and the truth often lies in between.' Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has appealed for witnesses to the attack on its officers as well as two earlier incidents understood to involve the same family. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham once again insisted there were 'two sides' to this 'complicated situation' which escalated 'very quickly' and became a 'very violent situation' The two brothers were being represented by 'TikTok lawyer' Akhmed Yakoob The lawyer previously insisted he was not stoking tensions when he claimed that the incident had been an 'attempted assassination' Sources have described how the brothers' 56-year-old mother - whom they were greeting from her flight from Pakistan - told them about an incident on the flight which led to them confronting another passenger in the terminal building. The first incident is an 'an altercation between passengers' from Qatar Airways flight QR023 that arrived at 7.20pm on Tuesday, which police said may have taken place on the flight or baggage hall. Then at about 8.22pm there was a 'violent altercation involving members of the public' near Starbucks in Terminal 2. Finally after the brothers were tracked via CCTV, at 8.28pm at the car park pay point area three police officers were assaulted and left with head injuries. Last Wednesday, a large crowd protested outside the family's local police station in Rochdale, with demonstrators shouting 'GMP shame on you!' Demonstrators hold Union Flags with the words 'No Justice No Peace' in Manchester on Thursday Chants of 'We want them sacked' were heard during a huge protest in Manchester on Thursday Some protesters built a makeshift barricade outside Rochdale Police Station on Thursday night Anti-police protesters throw eggs at Rochdale Police Station on Thursday night Paul Waugh, the newly elected Labour MP for Rochdale, said: 'All our communities in Rochdale are united in a strong belief in the rule of law, that the criminal justice system should follow the evidence wherever it leads, that offenders should be punished appropriately' The following day a second protest blocked roads and tram lines outside Mr Burnham's office in central Manchester. On Friday the brothers' family issued a 'plea for calm' via their MP Mr Waugh and urged people not to take part in any further protests. An Australian traveller has warned others against hailing taxis at the airport after falling victim to the same scam four times. Dominic Mich shared a video to social media on Wednesday that detailed his poor experience with taxis at Sydney Airport. 'How this scam works is they let the meter run up,' he explained. 'The meter's generally fine, and then at some point on the trip, before you get to your destination, they press a button on the meter, and suddenly it jumps by $10, $20, $30, $40.' Mr Mich and his partner were 'basically all the way home' on a 15-minute trip last week when their meter jumped by $20. 'I was keeping my eye on the meter the whole time because of previous experiences,' he said. 'We got to our destination, the fare was $32. I expected an airport fee to be added, maybe $2 or $3, then suddenly the fare went up to $57 with a few taps of a button. 'My partner was willing to speak up this time and questioned the taxi driver about it. He claimed it was the airport toll.' Dominic Mich (pictured with his partner) claims he has been scammed by Sydney Airport taxi drivers four times SYDNEY AIRPORT APPROXIMATE TAXI FARE GUIDE Sydney City $45-55 (one way) North Sydney $55 - $65 (one way) Manly $90 - $100 (one way) Parramatta $100 - $120 (one way) Liverpool $95 - $110 (one way) Cronulla $75 - $85 (one way) Advertisement Mr Mich also recalled another driver who hiked the meter price while getting a lolly from the center console, blocking the view of the meter from the backseat. 'Loaded $30 on, tapped it three times. It's like each tap comes with $10,' he said. 'Because this has always happened after a hell of a long flight, I haven't done much about it at the time. 'International tourists are going to be landing in Sydney and having this as their welcome. What a shocking way to welcome someone to this country.' Hundreds of Aussies shared their own experiences with Sydney Airport taxis and recommended Mr Mich use a rideshare platform such as Uber. 'I live in Waterloo, so less than 10 minutes in the car, and he charged $66. I was shook. However, jet lag and tiredness prevailed. Will always stick with Uber.' 'I was charged $170 for a 35-minute trip. The same trip with Uber was $51,' one said. 'I thought I was the only one. I went from Sydney Airport to Freshwater and got charged $180. When I asked why, he said because it's a weekend,' a second added. 'I've been charged $30-$40 more than what I was expecting before, and so have my colleagues,' a third said. Mr Mich accused the drivers of tampering with the meter during the ride, at one point adding $40 onto his fare (file photo pictured) 'My last taxi in Sydney was from the airport to the W in Darling Harbour and it was $80. Pure robbery,' another wrote. Sydney Airport provides an approximate fare guide for taxi riders, with the estimated cost of a trip to the city coming in at between $45 and $55. Those heading to North Sydney can expect to pay between $55 and $65. A ride to Cronulla will cost approximately $75-$85, while a trip to Manly will set you back about between $90 and $100 one way. For a journey to Liverpool, riders can expect to pay between $95 and $110. An airport toll of $5.45 is required for all passengers (per car) taking a taxi from any of Sydney Airport's taxi ranks. A married fashion executive has claimed she made a desperate attempt to ward off her creepy octogenarian boss with a passion for blondes. Stephanie Copin, a 38-year-old mother-of one, alleges in a new lawsuit that she was sexually harassed by her boss Manny Haber, 83, at Manhattan coat-maker Fleet Street. When she was eventually given a coveted office, one employee even said, 'The young blonde gets what she wants by her daddy,' according to a lawsuit filed in Brooklyn Supreme Court on Friday. The alleged harassment eventually became untenable - prompting Copin to dye her hair brown in an effort to appear less attractive to the Fleet Street CEO and President. But her efforts only led her to be assaulted and fired, Copin claims. Stephanie Copin, 38, claims in a new lawsuit that she was sexually harassed by her boss at Manhattan coat-maker Fleet Street Copin claims in her lawsuit that the sexual harassment began when she first went for an interview to work at the coat maker. Haber conducted the interview, and the first thing he told Copin was, 'Wow, you are [a] sight to see,' according to the lawsuit. Throughout the interview, he would regularly make comments like, 'Do you have other friends like you? That you can bring to the company?' it alleges. After he finished questioning Copin - and had her model one of the jackets - the vice president of sales began to question her as well, and informed Copin, 'He likes when you try on things for him, so continue to do that. 'The last girl that was here had a problem with it,' the vice president allegedly told Copin. She was then hired as an account executive in charge of The FRYE Company's account about one week later - and almost as soon as she started, Copin said she heard other employees make comments like 'Oh, what a surprise, another blonde,' and 'Oh, he definitely has a type.' Copin says in the lawsuit she was hired as an account executive at the Manhattan-based coat manufacturer in August 2023 As she continued to work at the coat manufacturer, Copin claimed Haber would keep her in his office and would put his hand on her thigh 'and pretend he was just scooting over or needed to see better,' the lawsuit states. He would also regularly comment on Copin's appearance, call her after work, ask her out for drinks - which she kept dodging - and would keep asking her to model outerwear - using her modeling as a pretext to look at her breasts, it claims. Haber even allegedly lured Copin back to his Brooklyn apartment, following an after-hours work meeting at The Plaza hotel He told Copin his driver would bring her back to her home in Clifton, New Jersey, before he was dropped at his apartment, the court documents say. But instead they arrived at Haber's home, and he allegedly cajoled Copin to see his place - claiming they would not be alone because the housekeeper was there. Once inside, Haber allegedly coaxed Copin into his bedroom to show her his view of the city from his window. He is then accused of exposing himself to Copin, and grabbing her hand, forcing her to touch his penis. She claims CEO and President Manny Haber would have her model some of the outerwear in an effort to look at her breasts Copin said she froze at first, before she realized that if she did not act, she might be raped. 'She pushed him off and ran out of the room,' court documents allege. 'I was shaking, it was a blur for me walking out of that building,' she recounted to the New York Post. 'I still didn't understand what had happened to me. I just wanted to get home.' But when she arrived back at her New Jersey house, she said, she could not bear to look at her young son. 'I went straight to the shower,' Copin said. '[Then] I hid myself in my room.' She added that she decided not to tell her husband at the time, because he was already suspicious that she was cheating on him due to Haber's lack of work boundaries - including by calling her after hours. Copin had been hired as an account executive for The FRYE Company, according to the suit Following the incident, Copin says she cried multiple times at work - but the harassment did not stop, with Haber allegedly grabbing her butt in front of co-workers. She said she eventually asked Haber to stop asking her out because 'I really like my job, and I don't want this to interfere with my work.' But he threateningly responded, 'It won't go well for you my dear,' according to the court documents. 'He started being really nasty to me,' Copin told the Post. '[He] never acknowledged what he did, never apologized. It was hard to go everyday and look at him, and him trying to get me in a position where he could once again touch me and grope me.' She said she 'wanted to quit every day,' noting that Haber began to 'humiliate' her in front of her colleagues. By November 16, 2023, the lawsuit claims, Haber fired Copin. Earlier that day, she said, he had called a company-wide meeting where he 'ridiculed' her and called her 'incompetent' in front of her co-workers. Copin said the incident has torn her life apart both financially and personally. She told the Post she has not been able to find a job since, and is now getting a divorce. Meanwhile, she has been forced to seek treatment in therapy as she continues to cry at random times and suffers from low self-esteem. She also said that despite being a former bleached blonde, she has decided to remain a brunette because 'I don't even want to be looked at.' Her attorney Mark Shirian said he and his client are now 'seeking justice and accountability' for her mistreatment at the company. 'Stephanie bravely stood up to inappropriate advances and faced retailiation by Mr. Haber as a result,' Shirian said. 'This behavior is unacceptable and a clear violation of her rights.' DailyMail.com has reached out to Fleet Street and Haber for comment. EXCLUSIVE The US national charged over the stabbing death of an Australian man at a popular tourist spot in Thailand is a retired Marine Corps corporal turned teacher. Randall Owen Johnson was arrested after Liam Michael Ross was found with stab wounds to his abdomen, leg and arm at Ao Nang Beach in Krabi in the early hours of July 22. Mr Ross, from Perth, was taken to Wattana Hospital, then to Krabi Hospital, but the 35-year-old died of his injuries. Ao Nang police charged Johnson, originally from Houston, Texas, with physically injuring another person causing death. The 43-year-old divorced father had been living in Krabi on the west coast of Thailand where he was a self-employed home school teacher. Johnson spent four years in the Marine Corps as a specialist in supply and logistics support, stationed at Camp Pendleton in California then Camp Schwab in Okinawa. After leaving the Marines, he worked as a telecommunications tower technician in the US and as an English teacher in Bangkok. Witnesses reported Johnson and Mr Ross, who were not known to each other, had been drinking at restaurant near Ao Nang the beach had a disagreement. Randall Owen Johnson, the US national charged over the stabbing death of an Australian man at a Thailand tourist spot, is a retired Marine Corps corporal turned teacher. He is pictured Johnson (above) was arrested after Liam Michael Ross was found with stab wounds to his abdomen, leg and arm at Ao Nang Beach in Krabi in the early hours of Jul 22 Johnson (pictured) pointed out the knife allegedly used in the attack after his arrest They reportedly encountered each other again as the Australian man walked back to his hotel, which allegedly led to a confrontation. Initially, the two exchanged words, but the situation soon escalated into a physical fight, according to police. Johnson allegedly drew a folding knife and inflicted several stab wounds on Mr Ross. Photographs from the scene showed it happened adjacent to the conch shell sculpture at the southern end of the beachside road, outside the entrance to the Holiday Inn resort. Ao Nang is a popular tourist destination known for its nightlife and beaches. Mr Ross's heartbroken family issued a brief statement through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on Friday morning. Liam Ross's heartbroken family is mourning the loss of their 'beautiful, gifted' brother and son Johnson was arrested near the scene of the stabbing (above) and charged with physically injuring another person causing death 'We are heart broken at the loss of our beautiful, gifted, much beloved Liam,' they said. 'The world is a poorer place for his passing. Thanks to family, friends and colleagues for their support. 'We requested that all family members be allowed to mourn Liam's passing in private.' Mr Ross's father, sisters and uncle had planned to travel to Bangkok for a Buddhist cremation on Saturday and to return to Western Australia with his ashes and belongings. A memorial service will be held in Perth when the family is ready. Mr Ross's sister previously posted on social media about the death of her brother. 'As you may already know, we have lost Liam to a tragic incident in Thailand and jour hearts are broken,' she wrote last week. 'We appreciate your ongoing consideration while we grieve and continue to process this.' Mr Ross's family was being provided with consular assistance, according to a spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. 'We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,' the spokesman said. 'Owing to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment.' Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened he might send forces into Israel as he accused Benjamin Netanyahu's regime of doing 'ridiculous things to Palestine'. He said on Sunday his country might enter Israel as it had done in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh, though stopped short of spelling out what sort of intervention he was suggesting. President Erdogan, who has been a fierce critic of Israel's offensive in Gaza, told a meeting of his AK Party: 'We must be very strong so that Israel can't do these ridiculous things to Palestine. 'Just like we entered Karabakh, just like we entered Libya, we might do similar to them'. In the televised address, Erdogan added: 'There is no reason why we cannot do this... We must be strong so that we can take these steps.' Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened he might send forces into Israel as he accused Benjamin Netanyahu's regime of doing 'ridiculous things to Palestine' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at the US Capitol on July 24 Palestinians carrying their personal belongings flee the al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip on July 28 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with Recep Tayyip Erdogan in September 2023 Palestinians, including children evacuate the area after the Israeli army announced that 'an operation will be organized' at the Bureij refugee camp on July 28 AK Party representatives did not respond to calls asking for more detail on Erdogan's comments and Israel did not immediately make any comment. The Turkish president's comments appeared to be referring to past actions by Turkey. In 2020, Turkey sent military personnel to Libya in support of the United Nations-recognised Government of National Accord of Libya. Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, who heads the Government of National Unity in Tripoli, is backed by Turkey. Turkey has denied any direct role in Azerbaijan's military operations in Nagorno-Karabakh, but said last year it was using 'all means', including military training and modernisation, to support its close ally. Erdogan's comments come after he previously called on the Islamic world to take action against Israel. He said back in May: 'I have some words to say to the Islamic world: what are you waiting for to take a common decision?' 'Israel is not just a threat to Gaza but to all of humanity,' he said. 'No state is safe as long as Israel does not follow international law and does not feel bound by international law,' Erdogan added, repeating an accusation that Israel is committing 'genocide' in Gaza. He also called Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu a 'vampire' and accused him of killing 'innocent civilians in their tents'. Refugees flee the Bureij refugee camp in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, on July 28 Smoke billows following an Israeli airstrike in the southern Lebanese border village of Chihine on July 28 People ride in a trailer as Palestinians flee the al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip on July 28 Children walk near buildings destroyed in previous Israeli bombardment in the al-Bureij refugee camp on July 28 Palestinians, including children evacuate the area after the Israeli army announced that 'an operation will be organized' at the Bureij refugee camp Turkey has also suspended all trade with Israel over its ongoing offensive in Gaza. The Turkish Trade Ministry said exports and imports had abruptly 'stopped' at the beginning of May, and that the measures would remain until Israel allows what it deems 'an uninterrupted and sufficient flow of humanitarian aid' into the beleaguered Strip. Turkish officials added in their declaration that they would work with the relevant Palestinian authorities to ensure Palestinians are not affected by the suspension. The move was met with furious backlash from Israel's foreign minister, who accused Turkey of blocking Israeli imports and exports from Turkish ports. The Turkish president 'is breaking agreements by blocking ports for Israeli imports and exports,' Katz wrote on the social platform X. Erdogan's government, which suffered major setbacks in local elections in March, had been faced with intense pressure at home to halt trade with Israel. Turkey and Israel had a trade volume of $6.8billion in 2023. The two countries had finally normalised ties after years of tensions by appointing ambassadors in 2022. But the war in Gaza has seen relations spiral in recent months with President Erdogan calling Israel a 'terror state' and introducing trade restrictions expected to hurt Israel's economy - a move matched in kind by Israel. Outspoken Greens MP housing spokesman Max Chandler-Mather has threatened to hold Anthony Albanese's government to ransom over negative gearing and rent freeze policy, after the government's cabinet shakeup. The Prime Minister announced on Sunday that Victorian MP Clare O'Neil would be shifted sideways from the Home Affairs and cybersecurity portfolio into the housing and homelessness ministry. Mr Albanese defended Ms O'Neil during a press conference, insisting she was only moved because there was a reshuffle - not over her damaged reputation following her handling of the High Court's decision to release foreign criminals into the community. The PM said Ms O'Neil 'is a great communicator' who will 'make sure the issue of housing is dealt with'. Labor touted a $32billion plan to build 1.2 million homes by 2029 in the Federal Budget in May, but has largely been accused of failing to tackle immediate systemic issues that prevent people from entering the housing market. The cabinet shakeup was announced at 2pm on Sunday. By 2.24pm, Mr Chandler-Mather - who has been a consistent thorn in the PM's side - had fired off five furious posts on X challenging Ms O'Neil to negotiate with The Greens on housing policies. He threatened to stop Labor's housing bills from passing unless Ms O'Neil enters discussions to freeze and eventually cap rental increases, phase out negative gearing, and properly invest in public housing. Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather (pictured) has challenged Labor on its housing policies Victorian MP Clare O'Neil (pictured) was the home affairs minister, but has now been moved into the housing portfolio Mr Chandler-Mather wrote: 'If Labor wants their housing bills passed, I call on the new housing minister, Clare O'Neil to immediately reopen negotiations with the Greens on rent freeze/caps along with phasing out tax handouts for investors and real investment in public housing.' He then took aim at the PM, accusing him of focusing on 'optics' by changing the housing minister while leaving housing policies unchanged. 'A new salesperson selling the same unlimited rent increases, skyrocketing house prices, chronic underfunding of public housing & tax handouts for investors will fail,' he said. 'It is typical of a political class focused on "optics" that the Prime Minister thinks changing their housing minister without changing their failed policies will help anyone. 'Labor cant keep tinkering around the edges of a housing crisis that is breaking people.' Ms O'Neil did not respond to Mr Chandler-Mather on Sunday, but she did thank Mr Albanese for giving her the opportunity 'to tackle one of the biggest problems that people in my community talk to me about - housing for every Australian'. Max Chandler-Mather fired off five furious posts on Sunday (pictured), moments after the cabinet reshuffle 'I got into politics to change peoples lives for the better,' she wrote. 'Nothing is more fundamental to the health and welfare of Australians than secure, affordable housing.' Sunday's reshuffle was necessary because Indigenous Australians minister Linda Burney and skills and training minister Brendan O'Connor announced their resignations on Friday. On Saturday, Tasmanian senator Carol Brown announced she would step aside from her position as assistant minister for transport and infrastructure due to health reasons. Mr Albanese used the opportunity to restructure his ministry ahead of the forthcoming federal election, which has to be called before May 2025. Ms O'Neil and immigration minister Andrew Giles were both moved following months of negative publicity following the High Court's NZYQ ruling last year that led to convicted criminal asylum seekers being released from indefinite detention. Pictured: Former immigration minister Andrew Giles with former home affairs minister Clare O'Neil Among those released from custody were seven who had committed murder or attempted murder, and 37 sex offenders, including child sex offenders. Another 72 were convicted of assault and violent offending, including kidnapping and armed robbery, 16 had domestic violence and stalking convictions and 13 committed serious drug offending. High Court rulings are separate from governmental decisions, but Labor bore the brunt of the criticism due to their handling of the fallout. Mr Giles took over from Mr O'Connor as skills and training minister. Tony Burke was given immigration and multicultural affairs, home affairs, cyber security, and arts. Sir Keir Starmer had talks with his Spanish counterpart about striking a free movement deal for young people, it emerged yesterday. The Prime Minister told Pedro Sanchez that he would consider a UK-Spain treaty allowing Spanish young people to live in the UK. The secret talks took place on the fringes of the European Political Community (EPC) at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, earlier this month. The Sunday Telegraph reported that Sir Keir did not reject the proposal, made to him by Mr Sanchez, and that he would mull it over. It signals a shift in his stance since April, when Labour rejected an EU-wide youth mobility deal floated by Brussels. Sir Keir Starmer held talks with his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez about a possible free movement deal for young people The PM told Mr Sanchez that he would consider a bilateral treaty to allow Spanish young people to live in the UK It will raise fresh concerns about whether Sir Keir, who campaigned for a second referendum to reverse the Leave vote, will gradually unpick Brexit in his bid to 'reset' relations with Brussels. James Cleverly, the Shadow Home Secretary, said: 'Three weeks in office and Labour are already betraying the British people by u-turning on their promises. 'They said they wanted to bring migration down and rejected a Youth Mobility Scheme with the European Union and now Keir Starmer is getting ready to open up our borders.' The Prime Minister has said he wants to renegotiate the UK-EU post-Brexit treaty, including on security. He also wants to forge closer economic ties in areas like agriculture, chemicals and professional qualifications. Although he has stressed he will not take Britain back into the bloc's single market or customs union, critics accuse him of being unrealistic. They point out that Brussels is likely to demand something in return for closer access to its markets. This could include Britain once again effectively becoming subject to EU laws and judges. It comes after Germany's ambassador to the UK last week suggested that relaxing Britain's borders could be the price for closer trading and security ties with the bloc. Sir Keir met the Spanish PM on the fringes of the European Political Community meeting at Blenheim Palace on July 18 Miguel Berger said Berlin would prefer a post-Brexit 'mega deal' which would restore freedom of movement for younger people and certain professionals. He said greater freedom of movement will be a priority for the EU and that Berlin wanted a much 'broader' deal than the one being talked about by Sir Keir. He said: 'That would include a youth mobility scheme. It would include the Erasmus [student exchange] program, school trips, youth exchanges, the question of visa costs, which are more than 10 times higher to come to the UK than the other way around. 'So I would say there are many, many things which affect the day-to-day mobility, especially for young people, and I would really like to see some progress there.' Australia, New Zealand and Canada are among ten countries that the UK already has a Youth Mobility Scheme visa scheme with, allowing their citizens to study or work here for up to two years. While EU nations are not part of the scheme, the question of whether a post-Brexit deal can be struck has risen up the political agenda. Labour will overhaul planning rules to build the 'biggest wave of social and affordable housing in a generation', the Deputy Prime Minister has said. Angela Rayner, who is also the Housing Secretary, said delivering the homes 'at scale' is her 'No 1 priority' after accusing the previous government of giving up on building. Echoing the Chancellor's warnings around the public finances, Ms Rayner said ministers had discovered a their 'frankly scandalous legacy' lurking 'under each stone we lift'. The Deputy Prime Minister told the Observer: 'We simply do not have enough homes. 'In the death throes of the clapped-out Conservative government, they gave up on governing and compounded their housing failure. In the first three months of this year, work started on 41 per cent fewer homes compared to the same period in 2023.' Deputy PM Angela Rayner has said delivering homes 'at scale' is her 'No 1 priority' Labour is planning to overhaul planning rules to build the 'biggest wave of social and affordable housing in a generation' (file photo) She is expected to announce the changes tomorrow before MPs go on summer recess. These will include bringing back mandatory housing targets that were scrapped by the previous Government and introducing 'golden rules' to ensure development works for local people and protects nature. In its manifesto, Labour pledged to build 1.5million homes over the next parliament, including on green belt land if needed. This will involve increasing mandatory housing targets by 50 per cent, meaning thousands more homes will need to be constructed in most areas. The move will likely be welcomed by the new Labour Growth Group, made up of 54 MPs, who have urged the leadership to 'back the builders and not the blockers' and 'make tough choices' over constructing homes. 'A failure to act will not be forgiven by the public,' they wrote. 'Britain has a housing crisis and a huge infrastructure deficit - without strong and immediate action, this will only worsen.' Ms Rayner is expected to announce the return of mandatory housing targets scrapped by the previous government (file photo) Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said earlier this month that Labour's plans would 'damage public consent for more housing in the long term' Earlier this month Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said Labour's proposals will 'damage public consent for more housing in the long-term'. Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said last night: 'Labour was given a clear mandate at the election to get Britain building again and kickstart economic growth. 'We are determined to grasp the nettle of planning reform so we can build the homes and infrastructure our country needs.' Vladimir Putin's 'family values' tsar has reportedly left her Orthodox priest husband for a Russian billionaire 11 years her senior. Maria Lvova-Belova, 39, was appointed as Russia's commissioner for children's rights by Putin just before he invaded Ukraine. She remains wanted by the International Criminal Court on war crimes charges for the unlawful deportation of hundreds of Ukrainian children from areas occupied by Russia. She married her Orthodox priest husband Pavel Kogelman in 2003. They have five children together and another five which they adopted. Ms Lvova-Belova has adopted 18 children in total, including a Ukrainian boy taken from the ravaged city of Mariupol. Speculation that she has left her husband was sparked after she was filmed holding hands with Russian oligarch Konstantin Malofeev, 50, at a church procession in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg last week. Maria Lvova-Belova with her Orthodox priest husband Pavel Kogelman who she married in 2003 Ms Lvova-Belova with Russian oligarch Konstantin Malofeev who she has reportedly left her husband for Mr Malofeev has close ties to the Russian Orthodox Church, founded the ultraconservative TV network Tsargrad and is known for supporting Putin's invasion of Ukraine and repeatedly calling for Russia to become a monarchy. He is currently under US and EU sanctions for financing separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014 and once referred to Putin as a 'miracle of God'. Ms Lvova-Belova and media tycoon Mr Malofeev have not commented on the rumours but sources close to the Orthodox Church say they are true. The separation claims have been widely spread with Telegram channel, Brief, asking its 570,000 subscribers, 'Are we waiting for the wedding of the year?' Since Ms Lvova-Belova was appointed as Russia's children's rights commissioner, pro-Kremlin media has often published stories about her family. She and her husband have spoken publicly about their relationship, Christian faith, 'traditional values', adoption and their children. The children's rights commissioner remains wanted by the International Criminal Court on war crimes charges for the unlawful deportation of hundreds of Ukrainian children from areas occupied by Russia She was appointed as Russia 's commissioner for children's rights by Putin just before he invaded Ukraine Posts on Ms Lvova-Belovas Telegram channel suggest that she started working closely with Malofeev at the start of 2023. They announced the launch of a joint charity project to help Ukrainian children called Happy Childhood in January last year. The following month, they travelled to Russian-occupied areas of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions together. Later in the year, the media began publishing speculative reports that Ms Lvova-Belova and Mr Malofeev - who reportedly divorced his wife last summer - were romantically involved. At least six sources have now confirmed to Russian journalists that she and Mr Malofeev are in a relationship. A source close to her charity projects claim that her younger children live with their father, and another source close to Mr Malofeev added that she is living separately from the rest of her family. Ms Lvova-Belova is one of Putins loudest supporters of the invasion of Ukraine, putting out videos of herself on social media that paint her as a model of family values and modesty and lecturing Ukrainian children on the sanctity of marriage and religion. At Labour's conference last October, Rachel Reeves, now the Chancellor, pledged her party would 'wage a war against fraud, waste and inefficiency', including a 'crackdown on Tory ministers' 'private jet habit' ' if it won a general election. Labour was particularly aggrieved by Liz Truss's use of a private jet to visit Australia for trade talks in 2022. Angela Rayner, now Deputy Prime Minister, led the attack, saying: '[Flying privately] shows the public exactly quite how little respect this Conservative government has for taxpayers' money. 'This government is brazen in its disregard for upholding decency.' So how can Labour square that position with the fact that last week their Foreign Secretary David Lammy flew to India for a two-day trip on the Government's Airbus A321? Rachel Reeves promised a 'crackdown on Tory ministers' 'private jet habit' - so how can Labour square that position with the fact that last week their Foreign Secretary David Lammy flew to India for a two-day trip on the Government's Airbus A321? The plane is the same private jet that Liz Truss used to fly Down Under and the fuel costs alone for the trip have been put at 110,000 It's exactly the same private jet that Liz Truss used to fly Down Under and the fuel costs alone for the trip have been put at 110,000. He chartered a jet on a trip to Israel a week earlier. The week before that, he flew in the Airbus 321 to Germany, Poland and Sweden. Now they're confronted by the trappings of power, Labour have performed a remarkable U-turn at 30,000 ft. Now they're confronted by the trappings of power, Labour have performed a remarkable U-turn at 30,000 ft. Pictured: Lammy with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Welby lurches even further to the Left The Archbishop of Canterbury has lurched even further to the Left. In the House of Lords, Justin Welby complained about the capitalist behaviour of Thames Water. Utility companies, he argued, should be 'low risk and low reward'. This from a prelate who heads up a Church that is an enthusiastic player of the stock markets. In 2022 the Church Commissioners' investment fund was valued at 10.3billion. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby poured cold water on money-making utility companies - but heads up a Church that is an enthusiastic player of the stock markets A real milestone birthday for Truss On Friday Liz Truss, who lost her seat in the election carnage, turned 49 - the same number of days she lasted as Britain's shortest-serving prime minister. Another Nepo blow Labour MP Rupa Huq asked the Cabinet Office last week: how are we going to get rid of the nepotism that cost the country 58.5 billion in 2020? Tellingly, the question wasn't answered by front benchers Ellie Reeves (MP for Lewisham West and East Dulwich), whose big sister Rachel Reeves is Chancellor, nor Georgia Gould (Queen's Park and Maida Vale) whose late father Lord Gould was one of the architects of New Labour. Rather, it fell to Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden to answer, whose wife Marianna is a senior official in party HQ. All in the family: Labour MP Rupa Huq asked the Cabinet Office how are we going to get rid of the nepotism that cost the country 58.5 billion in 2020? So old he's new With so many newbie MPs, reporters are struggling to identify them during PMQs. Last Wednesday, the MP for Preston was called by the Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle. 'What's his name?' scribes frantically asked. It was, in fact, Sir Mark Hendrick, Labour MP and such a nonentity that he still isn't recognised after almost 25 years in the chamber! Olympic washout compared to election downpour The rain-sodden Olympics opening ceremony prompted comparisons with our election being called in a downpour. 'If it gets any wetter Rishi Sunak'll jump on the British boat and make a speech,' tweeted Rory Bremner. The rain-sodden Olympics opening ceremony prompted comparisons with our election being called in a downpour From politics to the stage? To the 251 Tory MPs who lost their job at the General Election, Gyles Brandreth has some career advice. 'After I lost my seat in 1997 I did '100 musicals in 100 minutes' and took it to the Edinburgh Festival. I was safe in Scotland. No one had heard of the Conservatives.' A curtsey would be fab Recipient of both an OBE and a damehood, Joanna Lumley was asked last week if people ever curtsey to her. 'Not as often as I like!' she replied. Eco-fanatics have threatened to ruin the opening week of the school holidays for millions of families by targeting National Trust properties. Protesters from the group Christian Climate Action will disrupt visitors going to tourist hotspots across the UK including Chartwell in Kent, which belonged to Sir Winston Churchill and Runnymede where the Magna Carta was signed. The protests are due to begin today to coincide with the start of the summer school holidays and last until Sunday, 5 August. Other popular destinations due to be hit by the eco-rabble are Greys Court in Henley-on-Thames and Wentworth Castle in South Yorkshire. In all more than 40 National Trust properties will be struck within one week at a time when the sites are usually expecting a massive surge in attendance and revenue. Protesters hold placards in support of jailed climate activists. Eco-fanatics have threatened to target National Trust holidays as schools break up for the summer holidays Demonstrators will disrupt visitors going to attractions such as Sir Winston Churchill's home Chartwell in Kent (pictured) Just Stop Oil protesters clash with police after bringing traffic to a standstill The disruption will come just over a week after the co-founder of Just Stop Oil, Roger Hallam was jailed at Southwark Crown Court for a plot to disrupt the M25. Christian Climate Action justifies their actions because they say Barclays Bank, which acts for the Trust, is the largest funder of fossil fuels in Europe. Clare Fussell, Campaign Director for Operation Noah, a charity involved in the protests, said: Barclays is Europes biggest funder of fossil fuel companies, and is bankrolling the climate crisis. We love the National Trust, but it urgently needs to switch to greener, cleaner banking in order to keep protecting the places we love for future generations. A climate protester outside Southwark Crown Court holds a placard with the message 'Facing the end of the world is neither here nor there, says Judge Hehir' Other popular hotspots that are due to be hit by demonstrators include Wentworth Castle (pictured) in south Yorkshire Eco-fanatics have justify their actions because Barclay's Bank, which is the largest funder of fossil fuel companies in Europe, acts for the National Trust This is an ideal opportunity for the Trust to make its money work for the good of our shared home. Last year Barclays provided more than 17.5 billion to fossil fuel companies driving up emissions and pollution, a 10% increase on the year before, and a total of 182 billion since 2016. Campaigners against fossil fuels have set up a petition, calling on the National Trust to Bank Better - Drop Barclays. Claire Duc, a National Trust member in Sussex who will be protesting said: As a member it is really disheartening knowing that my money is being sent off to Barclays bank. A local council has been slammed after they increased rates as high as 50 per cent for thousands of residents living on higher floors in apartment buildings. Gold Coast City Council have raised the rates for owners of high-rise units over the last six months with residents living on level five and above affected. Residents on the 40th floor or above have been hit the hardest with owners forced to pay 50 per cent more - or an extra $13. Tenants on floors 21 to 40 were hit with a 40 per cent hike - or $10.50 - while those living on floors 11 to 20 have seen their rates rise by 30 per cent - an extra $8.10. Apartment owners on floors five to 10 haven't been spared with rates rising by 10 per cent - or $5.70. Gold Coast Council issues a rate notice every year in January and July and each notice covers the rates for the next six months. More than 12,000 high-rise apartments have been included in the revised rate categories. The general manager of Queensland's Strata Community Association Laura Bos slammed the increase, labelling it a 'view tax'. Residents living on the top floors of high-rise apartments on the Gold Coast have had their council rates increased by up to a massive 50 per cent (stock image) Ms Bos said the move would make the housing crisis worse as people struggle with the cost-of-living crisis. 'It's most definitely a view tax and particularly in context of how it's being structured, in that the higher you go, the more you pay,' she told the ABC. Sue Donovan, who lives on the 18th floor of an apartment on the Gold Coast, said her rates had increased by around $100. Ms Donovan described the price increase as a 'wealth tax', but said the move would help keep rates more affordable for people living in less expensive apartments. 'I think it's only fair that people who can afford it do pay a bit more to keep the rates lower for people who really are feeling great cost-of-living pressures,' she said. Councilor Glen Tozer defended the rate hike and said residents living on ground floors should not pay the same as those living at the top of high-rise units. 'People living in more expensive apartments pay a little bit more than people living in a ground floor unit and frankly, I think it's the right thing to do,' he said. A Gold Coast City Council spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia the general rates for high-rise apartments changes depending on the unit's size and location. 'The City has adjusted its method used to calculate general rates for high-rise units that are a principal place of residence to ensure fairness and equity across all ratepayer categories,' she said. Residents, property groups and councilors are divided over the move as Aussies struggle to find affordable housing during a cost of living crisis (stock image of Surfers Paradise QLD) 'This change ensures unit owners are charged fairly based on the effect that unit size and floor level has on a propertys value.' President of the Unit Owners Association of Queensland Mike Murray slammed the rate increase and told Daily Mail it is as an 'inequitable' measure. 'Just because you might own an apartment on the 30th floor does not mean you are full of cash,' Mr Murray said. Under the previous rates system, a person living on the first floor of a high rise would have paid the same as a resident living on the 40th floor. General rates are charged based on the value of an owner's land and their property's rating category according the council's website. 'We also charge every property owner with other rates and standard charges that we set each year,' the website states. A mother has maintained her innocence as she was led into custody for forcing her 20-year-old daughter to marry a man who would later murder her. Sakina Muhammad Jan, 48, told Victorian County Court Judge Fran Dalziel through an interpreter that she has not done anything wrong. The judge on Monday morning jailed her for three years for forcing her daughter Ruqia Haidari to marry Mohammad Ali Halimi in August 2019. Sakina Muhammad Jan (right) faces deportation after her time in prison Jan will be released from custody on a recognisance order after 12 months but faces deportation to Afghanistan once released. Jan initially refused to sign the recognisance order, maintaining she could not accept it. 'I've done nothing wrong I cannot accept... I cannot be locked in,' she said, in an emotional outburst, via an interpreter. Her son also told the court it was shameful his mother was being sent to prison after losing her daughter. Jan coerced Ms Haidari into the marriage after the 20-year-old's first arranged marriage ended in divorce. Ruqia (centre) was forced to marry 25-year-old Afghan refugee and Uber driver Mohammad Ali Halimi (left) by her mother Sakina Muhammad Jan (right), who paid him a dowry payment Ruqia Haidari, 21, was killed by her husband after an arranged marriage Ms Haidari was considered 'bewa' by the Hazara community, meaning she had lost her value. Jan arranged the second marriage to try and restore her family's reputation despite her daughter's objections, prosecutor Darren Renton SC told the court. Halimi killed his young bride five months after their wedding and is serving a life prison term for her murder. A jury in May found Jan guilty of causing a person to enter into a forced marriage. She is the first person in Australia to be sentenced on the charge after it was criminalised more than a decade ago. Judge Dalziel told Jan she had abused her power as a mother. 'While you believed you were acting in (Ms Haidari's) best interests, you were not in fact doing so,' the judge said. Jan cried and one of her family members collapsed as she was led from the court and into custody. She was placed into the back of an ambulance about 30 minutes later. Voters have spoken out on who should join Kamala Harris on the Democrat ticket in the same poll that gave the current vice president a significant bump in popularity. The ABC News/Ipsos poll found Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona has the highest favorables amongst the contenders. The same poll has the vice president's favorability sitting at 43 percent an eight point surge since last weekend, according to ABC News/Ipsos polling which showed Donald Trump under water. Kelly, a former astronaut and husband of ex-Congressman and gun control advocate Gabrielle Giffords, is viewed positively by 22 percent of respondents and negatively by just 12 percent. While a majority either still don't know Kelly or have no opinion of the border state Democrat, he remains better liked than some of his potential VP rivals. With Kamala Harris getting a significant bump in popularity since announcing she's running for president, voters have offered their take on the contenders to replace Harris as VP Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is viewed favorably by the most voters (29 percent) but is viewed negatively (25 percent) by almost as many. Governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania (17 percent favorable, 13 percent unfavorable) and Andy Beshear of Kentucky (13 percent favorable, nine percent unfavorable) are similarly just above water. Harris' fellow Californian Governor Gavin Newsom performed extremely poorly, with 21 percent viewing him positively and 33 percent negatively. Buttigieg and Newsom remain the only candidates known to majority of the people surveyed. Outside the favorites, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's viral fame has yet to translate into popularity, with just 13 percent of those polled having any opinion of him and just six percent viewing him positively. Roy Cooper of North Carolina (seven percent positive, eight percent negative) and JB Pritzker of Illinois (seven percent positive, 12 percent negative) were similarly unknown to voters. While many believe Harris will chose a man as vice president, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer was also tested. She's seen favorably by 20 percent and negatively by 21 percent. Kelly is seen as a potential worry for Republicans, according to Kevin Madden, a Republican strategist and former spokesperson to Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential campaign. In that same poll, voters were asked what they thought of the candidates to join Harris on the ticket and while many remain somewhat unknown, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona (pictured left) has the highest favorables The vice president's favorability sits at 43 percent an eight point surge since last weekend, according to ABC News/Ipsos polling which showed Donald Trump under water. Kelly, a former astronaut and husband of ex-Congressman and gun control advocate Gabrielle Giffords, is viewed positively by 22 percent of respondents and negatively by just 12 percent Republican strategist Matt Wolking believes Shapiro and Kelly are the most formidable candidates in the running for vice president, but he noted choosing Kelly would open up a Senate seat in the battleground state of Arizona should Democrats win the election. Harris' favorability jumped eight percent from the same survey a week ago which revealed that 35 percent view Harris favorability and 46 percent see her in a unfavorable light. Biden announced last Sunday, July 20, that he was ending his reelection bid after weeks of pressure from within his party to step aside. He immediately endorsed his VP to take over. Harris last week earned enough delegates to become the de facto nominee and is campaigning with much of her boss's old team and campaign infrastructure. She hit the campaign trail hard in the week since Biden stepped down with stops in several different states and has taken over some ceremonial presidential duties while Biden recovered from his third bout of COVID-19. The most important jump in support comes from independent voters, who are vastly important to clinching a victory in November. Now 44 percent of independents have a favorable view of Harris compared to just 28 percent who felt that way just a week prior. Her unfavourability dropped from 47 percent to 40 percent. Donald Trump's favorability rating, meanwhile, dropped slightly from 40 percent to 36 percent in the week following the attempted assassination attempt against him. Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania (pictured left) had more positive views than negative but remains unknown to much of the electorate Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is viewed favorably by the most voters (29 percent) but is viewed negatively (25 percent) by almost as many Among independents, the former president also saw a drop from 35 percent to 27 percent. The new survey suggests that there is more enthusiasm for the vice president's candidacy compared to Trump 48 percent to 39 percent. Harris is likely to face-off with Trump in November as no other Democrats are being floated currently to challenge the vice president for the spot with just three weeks until the Democratic National Convention. Fifty-two percent of those surveyed think Harris should be the nominee, according to the poll. And 86 percent of Democrats want to see her leading their ticket. A separate poll also released on Sunday from YouGov/Times of London reveals that 30 percent of voters think Biden should step down now and turn over the rest of his term to Harris. It also found a staggering number of U.S. voters 92 percent think Harris was at least partially involved in covering-up the extent of President Biden 's mental decline. The survey of 1,170 voters taken July 22 and 23 asked whether they believed there was an effort to shield Biden's mental health from the public and who was responsible for the cover-up. Fifty-four percent of respondents said there was a cover-up and 30 percent said they don't believe there was one. Sixteen percent aren't sure. The switch-up in the 2024 election has left many with questions over whether there was a plot to keep Biden's cognitive health under wraps and who plotted to keep secret his declining health. Heroic cop Rachel McCrow's heartbreaking final act as she lay dying in the dirt of a killer familys doomsday cult compound has been revealed. Constable McCrow was shot and killed with Constable Matt Arnold after they entered the remote property of the religious extremist Train family at Wieambilla, 300km west of Brisbane. An inquest has now heard how Ms McCrow recorded a final 'message of love for her family' before she passed away. Bodycam video revealed how Constable McCrow was gunned down at 4.37pm on December 12, 2022, moments after Constable Arnold was shot dead by one of the Train brothers. Constable McCrow had immediately dropped to her hands and knees and moved off the drive to call for urgent assistance on her police radio, the inquest heard. But two camouflaged figures - believed to be Nathaniel and Gareth Train, armed with rifles - were approaching and shot McCrow in the back. At 4.38pm she was shot again, 'in the lower left and in the upper right leg', Counsel Assisting the inquest, Ruth O'Gorman KC said. 'At 4.40pm she recorded she had been shot three times. At 4.45pm she recorded that the shooter was coming towards her and discharged her Glock. Police officers Rachel McCrow, 29 (right) Matthew Arnold, 26 (left), were both killed during the shootings at Wieambilla in December, 2022 Heavily armed police later shot all members of the Train family dead during a lengthy siege later that night 'McCrow fired 15 times at the shooter and 'pleaded with the male who approached her' but 'after a brief verbal exchange was killed at close range'. In the space of seven minutes, the inquest heard the officers, 'ambushed, in pain and no doubt terrified, showed great courage under fire ... and recorded important details ... and she had the grace to record a message for her family.' The terrifying details of what happened next included footage of a third officer being pursued by two of the Trains. The testimony was heard at the inquest in Brisbane into the deaths of constables Arnold and McCrow, of neighbour Alan Dare and the Trains at the compound north of Tara. Brothers Nathaniel and Gareth Train and his wife Stacey murdered constables McCrow, 29, and Arnold, 26, then Mr Dare before they were shot dead by police. The month-long inquest opened with details of what began as a routine missing persons inquiry that turned deadly after four police officers jumped over the Trains' fence at 251 Wains Road, Wieambilla around 4.30pm. The four officers, who included Constable Keely Brough, could be heard chatting on the dirt driveway as they approached the Trains' house. Just 120m from the home, Constable Arnold was shot dead, followed by McCrow. Constable Randall Kirk was then pursued by the gunmen, and his bodyworn camera revealed him hiding in grass as two persons in camouflage hunted him down. Speaking quietly with police HQ while under fire, Kirk told them that, after shooting Arnold and McCrow, one shooter 'is still trying to walk around me. 'They've got massive ... guns. Matt's not moving. Rachel's not moving now. There's two of them,' said Kirk. The radio operator replied: 'You have to look after yourself buddy.' Kirk responded: 'Hes coming over. Shall I run?' Radio operator asked: 'Do they know where you are?' Police shot Nathaniel and Stacey Train (pictured at their wedding) along with brother Gareth in the head within seven minutes of one another Heavily armed police later shot all members of the Train family dead during a lengthy siege later that night (pictured, Gareth Train) 'Yes they do,' said Kirk. (Shots are exchanged). 'They're coming, they're shooting'. Kirk ran and made it over the fence to the police car, yelling 'f***' while moaning after he too was shot. Driving away, panting, and the Trains still shooting at him, he again said: 'Oh f*** ... two of them, I think Ive been shot, Ive got blood on my face. Ms O'Gorman told the hearing that 'with a dearth of cover and the shooters approaching', the bodycam recorded the shooters saying: 'There he is - let's go.' 'As he ran for his life, nine shots were fired at him ... and with a gunshot wound to his hip and shots fired at the front windscreen and the side passenger panel, Kirk escapes,' said Ms O'Gorman. He was later taken to hospital and had shrapnel removed from his left hip. Meanwhile, the situation was still active for Constable Brough, who was lying in grass on the property, her police radio not working, and using her mobile phone to call for assistance. At 4.49pm, a male voice recorded on Constable Arnold's bodycam said: 'Theres one more somewhere'. Brough told a radio operator: 'I think they know I'm here. I'm scared.' She said there were two in camouflage with rifles before spotting they had set fire to the grass in the compound Wind whipped up the fire which steadily approached until it was just 1m from her, and she 'could not move because they were watching her' Constable Brough remained in the grass for two hours until a special police team arrived to rescue her and deal with the shooters. Around 5.30pm, Alan Dare (pictured) and another man went to the property to investigate the fires that had been started The cold-blooded murders of two cops and an innocent neighbour in what has been called a religiously-motivated terror attack were captured on camera, showing all three had no interactions with their murderers before being gunned down, a court has been told. Meanwhile, neighbour Alan Dare, 58, who had gone to investigate the commotion was also shot dead by the Trains. All the deaths were recorded on video - the officers on their fellow officers' bodycams, while Mr Dare filmed his own death while trying to video the fire. The specialised cop team shot all three Trains in the head, Gareth at 10.32pm, Stacey at 10.36pm, and Nathanial at 10.39pm, the inquest heard. The Trains' deaths were recorded by Polair and drone footage. Ms O'Gorman said none of the footage of the deaths would be played during the inquest but warned footage proximate to the deaths could prove upsetting for some. The inquest continues. An ABC star has called out an online troll for taking a swipe at her sexuality while accusing her of writing a 'hit piece' on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. RN Breakfast host Patricia Karvelas was subjected to the abuse after writing an article criticising Mr Albanese following his Cabinet reshuffle on Sunday. 'Not surprised by another hit piece on Anthony Albanese from the LNP's favourite lesbian, Patricia Karvelas,' the social media user wrote on X. 'She is so biased I've had to turn off RN in the mornings and go back to ABC Sydney.' Karvelas' response was short and simple: 'Whats my sexuality got to do with anything?' Dozens of social media users voiced their support for Karvelas' blunt response and applauded her for calling out the unnecessary comment. 'More importantly, I can think of a number of lesbians who would be furious to rank below you in LNP favourites,' one wrote. 'Spare a thought for the less popular lesbians though!' another said. Patricia Karvelas (pictured) called out a critic for mentioning her sexuality in a comment on her recent 'hit piece' against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Ms Karvelas (pictured with her partner, Peta Sirec) was attacked online late last year after she discussed keeping her sexualithy hidden in the early days of her career 'Nothing. This type of nasty stuff needs to stop,' another wrote. Other commenters encouraged Karvelas to pay more attention to the critic's accusation of bias in her reporting. 'Your sexuality does not and should not have anything to do with journalism and should not be used against you in any way,' one wrote. 'Having said that, you are biased which is why I turn the TV off when you come on.' 'Sexuality isn't relevant, I'm surprised you let the bit about being biased slide by without comment though. That is actually relevant,' another wrote. 'It is your rampant political bias that is the problem,' a third said. Karvelas' response comes just months after she was forced to speak out against online trolls who mocked the struggles she faced as a closeted lesbian journalist at the start of her career. The ABC TV and radio presenter had to keep her sexuality a secret so she would not miss out on workplace opportunities as a cadet reporter in Canberra in 2003. When she first started out in the Press Gallery, she made sure certain anti-LGBTQ+ politicians did not find out about her sexual orientation. Karvelas told ABCQueer in October that 'every day was a day of navigation' as she tried to keep her sexuality a secret. After Karvelas revealed details about how she came out, trolls on social media posted cruel comments about the award-winning journalist, with some claiming her Greek family was not proud of her because of her sexuality. Ms Karvelas claimed one of the few figures in Canberra who did know she was a lesbian was now-Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured), who was known to be 'pretty pro-gay' 'Trolls target me for hours with vile stuff. My family is really proud of me thanks,' Karvelas wrote at the time. 'The stuff I've read is truly shocking I didn't even share the worst. Sexualised homophobia it made me sick.' Karvelas' supporters slammed the keyboard warriors and described her response as brave. Since starting out in the gallery, where she worked for the Australian, Karvelas went on to join Sky News before landing her current role with the public broadcaster. A couple who went missing while scuba diving described how they were rescued after nearly 40 hours at sea. During that span, officials said Kim and Nathan Maker never once left each other's side - wading in waters miles off the Texas coast in desperate need of rescue. The Oklahoma residents were spotted by a plane just hours before the search was to be called off - an outcome family and friends are billing as nothing short of a miracle as storm swells threatened to swallow the pair whole. The rescue happened in the famously treacherous Gulf of Mexico early Friday - 36 hours after the two were seized by a current that separated them from their group on Wednesday. A day of searching yielded nothing - as fellow divers recalled to news stations in the Sooner State of how they lost sight of the Makers. Scroll down for video: Kim and Nathan Maker never once left each other's side on Wednesday and Thursday - despite wading in waters miles off the Texas coast for more than a day-and-a-half The Oklahoma residents were spotted by a plane just hours before the search was to be called off - an outcome family and friends are billing as nothing short of a miracle as storm swells threatened to swallow the pair whole. Infrared footage from the rescue plane is seen here 'The rain was so hard that you couldn't see outside,' diver Lisa Shearin recalled to Fox 19 Now Sunday of how the inclement weather hit mid-dive. 'It stormed, and the winds and waves were atrocious,' she said. As others made it to the boat safely, the Makers were nowhere to be seen, she and others said. Charles Owen, a relative of the couple, described how the separation happened in a span of ocean near the city Matagorda. 'A huge swell comes in and engulfs Kim and Nathan totally,' Owen, Nathan's uncle, said. 'When the swell rolls out, they're nowhere to be found. 'There was a storm moving in and the divers had all surfaced and was going to prepare to get back on the boat,' he further explained to Oklahoma News 4. 'As the 16 got in, in the meantime, the swell comes in and engulfed all of them.' Nathan and Kim then inflated their safety devices in a successful bid to return the surface, relatives and Coast Guard officials said. 'The rain was so hard that you couldn't see outside,' diver Lisa Shearin recalled to Fox 19 Now Sunday of how the inclement weather hit them mid-dive. 'A huge swell comes in and engulfs Kim and Nathan totally,' Charles Owen, Nathan's uncle, said. 'When the swell rolls out, they're nowhere to be found' But by then, the storm - seen early Wednesday evening - had become to powerful, witnesses said, and soon enough, the Markers were miles away from where the group had dove. 'Very scary,' Owen said of the 1,656 square mile, roughly 36-hour search that ensued. It started around around 7pm Wednesday, when he and other members of the family first got a call from the Coast Guard, saying the couple had disappeared that morning while scuba diving in the Gulf, he said. After a day-and-half, 'Wed already practically have given up hope,' the Edmond man said - recalling how the grid officials had laid out and had just finished searching failed to find anything. It wasn't until hour 36 when officials were close to calling off their search when a discovery was made, officials said - in the dead of night miles away from the initial dive site. 'This plane happened to be in the air last night making its last run outside the grid and Nathan and Kim had their diving flashlights and they were doing the S.O.S. to point at the planes bottom,' Owen said of how it happened. 'The plane saw them on one last pass. Then the boats came to the rescue.' The discovery brought an end to what had many had begun to suspect was a futile effort, and provided proof of the couple's undying devotion to one another, Owen said. A 1,656 square mile, roughly 36-hour search ensued, after the pair failed to get back to the boat like other members of their group (seen here) 'There was a storm moving in and the divers had all surfaced and was going to prepare to get back on the boat,' Owen further explained. 'As the 16 got in, in the meantime, the swell comes in and engulfed all of them'. The boat is seen here after the two failed to board 'Even when the swell came over, they found them; they were together,' he said. 'We thank everybody for their concerns and their prayers. This miracle was performed by the Coast Guard at Gods direction.' Shearin, the only diver on the 18-person group to speak about the scare, added: 'People dont survive that and not have a story to tell. 'They have a greater purpose, obviously,' she said, growing emotional at times. 'God truly did spare them.' The Coast Guard, meanwhile, went on to issue its own statement on Friday, hours after the 1am rescue 15 miles offshore from Matagorda. 'Sector Corpus Christi watchstanders received a notification Wednesday afternoon reporting that the divers were last seen surfacing in unfavorable weather conditions and were not seen after conditions cleared,' the bulletin read. 'Air Station Corpus Christi MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter and HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft aircrews were launched along with a Station Port OConnor 45-foot Response Boat-Medium boat crew to search for the divers. 'The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Edgar Culbertson was also directed to assist with search efforts. It wasn't until hour 36 when officials were close to calling off their search when a discovery was made, officials said - in the dead of night miles away from the initial dive site. The two were treading water together, using their flashlights to issue an SOS 'The Ocean Sentry aircraft aircrew spotted a flashing light in the water while searching and vectored in the divers' location to the cutter. 'The divers were transported to Coast Guard Station Freeport, and were last reported to be in stable condition,' the statement concluded. The couple, meanwhile, have yet to issue their own statement. As of Monday morning, it remained unclear if they were back home in Edmond. Wild footage has emerged of the moment a motorcyclist was abused by a driver she claims tried to cut her off during a heated road rage clash. The New Zealand woman, who lives in Australia, shared shocking footage of the altercation to TikTok with the man heard telling her to 'die'. The motorcyclist and her passenger managed to stay calm throughout the terrifying ordeal. Dashcam footage from her bike showed a driver in a white station wagon launching into an expletive-laden tirade at a set of traffic lights. 'F**king stick up peoples' a**es,' he said. The New Zealand woman didn't respond to the driver and instead waited for the traffic light to turn green so she could keep driving. The foul-mouthed motorist then made a rude hand gesture before he turned left, with the motorcyclist continuing straight ahead. The motorcyclist shared footage of what had happened moments earlier with video showing her overtake the car before the driver sped up to pass her. The motorcyclist (pictured) and her passenger were both shocked and couldn't believe the motorist acted the way he did, which included purposefully going slow so she had no choice but to overtake him She explained that when the driver slowed down in front of her, she overtook him again before claiming he undercut her. 'Undercuts me at an intersection (I had left some extra space so he didn't rear end me),' she wrote in the caption. Footage showed how the driver put his brakes on again, prompting the motorcyclist to overtake him again. The motorcyclist was left visibly shaken as she eventually reached her destination. 'That was insane, Ive never had someone scream at me like that before,' she said. Her passenger added: 'He was angry. He was proper p**sed.' 'He could have just let me go and that would have been it, but no he had to like, get in front of me,' the motorcyclist said. Social media users were quick to show support to the motorcyclist with many praising her composure. 'The worst thing you can do in a road rage incident is respond. It does the opposite of helping. So, good on ya for not doing that,' one wrote 'Its so hard not to engage sometimes but you did the right thing. Not worth it,' another said. Another added: 'Thats terrible, glad youre safe'. Some defended the driver claiming the the motorcyclist was at fault. 'I mean you did cut him off twice for no reason, you didnt need to get over like that,' one wrote. A young surfer whose leg was severed as he fought off a three-metre shark has joked about the loss of his limb less than a week after the devastating attack. Kai McKenzie was rushed to hospital along with his severed leg when he was attacked at the isolated North Shore Beach, near Port Macquarie on the NSW mid-north coast, on Tuesday. The 23-year-old fought off the shark and managed to paddle ashore where he was helped by an off-duty police officer, who used his dog's leash to stem the bleeding. Mr McKenzie was critically injured in the attack, but on Monday he shared a social media update showing himself flanked by supporters as he stood near his hospital bed. 'Spot something missing?' he joked of his missing leg in the Instagram post. 'So good to have so many amazing people behind me, I really appreciate it.' Mr McKenzie's leg washed up on the shore and was taken to John Hunter Hospital but could not be reattached. A GoFundMe page organised by Mr McKenzie's neighbour, Lauren Mac, had raised more than $165,000 for the surfer's treatment and recovery by Monday morning. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @kai_mckenzie Kai McKenzie (second from left) with friends. The shocking chewed-up remains of Kai McKenzie's surfboard after the shark attack last week In an update on Saturday, the Bonny Hills resident said it was 'everything' just to have survived the attack and be able to hold his loved-ones. Mr McKenzie promised he would be back in the water 'in no time' as he thanked those who had contributed to the Gofundme page established in his honour 'Man ohh f***ing man to be here right now just to f***ing be able to hold my beautiful Eve and my family is everything to me,' he posted on Saturday alongside a picture of him embracing his girlfriend. 'A few days ago I went through a crazy shark attack (biggest shark I've ever seen) which was a very crazy scene and scared the living f*** out of me, but to all you f***ing kind hearted people, all you legends, to anyone and everyone all your support has meant the absolute world to me. 'I can tell you now if you know my personality this means f*** all. I'll be back in that water In no time! 'BIG F*** OFF TO THAT SHARK and BIG THANKS to Steve for saving my life.' Mr McKenzie was set upon by the predator at North Shore Beach north of Port Macquarie, on the NSW mid-north coast, on Tuesday morning. He fought off the shark and caught a wave back to shore suffering severe blood loss with a chunk bitten out of his surfboard. 'Man ohh f***ing man to be here right now just to f***ing be able to hold my beautiful Eve and my family is everything to me,' he posted on Saturday alongside a picture of him embracing his girlfriend An off-duty police officer used their dog's leash as a makeshift tourniquet until paramedics arrived and took Mr McKenzie to Port Macquarie Base Hospital. The off-duty constable was among several beachgoers who rushed to Mr McKenzie's aid after he got out of the water. After his leg washed up on the beach it was placed on ice and rushed to hospital under police lights and sirens, the Daily Telegraph reported. Mr McKenzie's devastated loved ones made the bleak admission Mr McKenzie faces a 'long road to recovery' regardless of whether or not the limb can be reattached. Neighbour Lauren Mac set up a GoFundMe in the wake of the attack. 'It's so cool to see so many beautiful people support me,' Mr McKenzie said in his post. Mr McKenzie was set upon by the predator at North Shore Beach north of Port Macquarie, on the NSW mid-north coast, on Tuesday morning 'There are so many messages to get back to but I wanted to say a massive thanks to everyone for your generous donations on the go fund me page. We are so very grateful for everything,' NSW Ambulance office Kirran Mowbray told the media Mr McKenzie's efforts to fight off the shark and struggle back to shore was an amazing act of courage. 'He's seen the shark, he's been able to fight it off. He's turned around and caught a wave into shore. He's very courageous,' she said. It was earlier revealed that Mr McKenzie had only recently returned to the water after he fractured his neck. 'So happy to be back surfing after having a fractured neck,' Mr McKenzie posted on Instagram in January. He's been described a 'legendary fella' and accomplished surfer, sponsored by well-known brands. Disgraced former TV personality Andrew O'Keefe told a police officer who allegedly found a crack pipe in his jacket pocket the garment 'was worn by someone else', a court has been told. A haggard and husky-voiced O'Keefe sat quietly in the dock as his lawyer, Sharon Ramsden, applied for his release on bail at Waverley Local Court on Monday morning. Police allege the former Deal or No Deal host returned a positive drug test after he was stopped shortly before midday on Sunday in Sydney's affluent Bellevue Hill. Officers further allege the 52-year-old threatened a man at an address on Longworth Ave in the neighbouring suburb of Point Piper 'a short time' before the stop. Appearing before court on Monday, O'Keefe allegedly confronted the man 'potentially as a matter of jealousy' following a 'rekindling' with his former partner. 'It's certainly not been a situation where just turned up at the door and knocked on the door to say hello, there has been this aggression,' the police prosecutor told the court. The prosecutor said O'Keefe knew he was 'not supposed to be' at the property and that he had made admissions to police about putting 'one foot through the door'. He alleged O'Keefe had appeared drug-affected to police and when asked about a crack pipe in his pocket told them the jacket 'was worn by another person' and did not belong to him. Andrew O'Keefe told a police officer who allegedly found a crack pipe in his jacket pocket the garment 'was worn by someone else', a court has been told. Officers further allege the 52-year-old threatened a man at an address on Longworth Ave in the neighbouring suburb of Point Piper 'a short time' before the stop. While Ms Ramsden told the court the 'allegations were denied', she admitted O'Keefe had made admissions to police because he was worried the home was being burgled. 'He is able to go to the property, but he cannot enter. He was having lunch with her (the ex-partner) later that day. He got to the property and he saw the door ajar,' she said. 'She (the ex-partner) is not home and there is no threat to her and there is no statement from her, which is important in assessing the prosecution case'. Ms Ramsden said O'Keefe visited the home and after an initial conversation returned, at which point the man told him: 'If you don't leave it's going to be very bad for you.' She told the court the former TV host took the statement as a threat and that there was 'nothing to support' claims he had been arguing with someone on the phone. In support of the bail application, Ms Ramsden said O'Keefe would provide daily urine samples for drugs and that his sister would provide a $1000 surety to the court. For his part, the prosecutor was opposed to O'Keefe's release, claiming he was a 'danger to the community' due to his alleged drug driving and while suspended. O'Keefe was ultimately granted bail despite the magistrate telling the 52-year-old there were 'a lot of aspects of the police facts that are of concern'. 'There is a real concern you were somewhere you shouldn't have been and that drugs might still be a factor in your life, but I'm prepared to give you an opportunity to continue with your treatment,' she said. Sunday's arrest comes after O'Keefe was issued a court attendance notice for the offence of drive while suspended on June 20, following a vehicle stop in Bellevue Hill. In January, he was also convicted on a domestic violence charge dating back to September 2021 when he kicked and spat at a woman. He was found guilty of common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of possessing a prohibited drug and contravening an apprehended violence order. However, he avoided jail time and was sentenced to a 12-month community corrections order and three 18-month community corrections orders for the domestic violence offences. The white sheriff's deputy who killed unarmed black mom Sonya Massey in her kitchen after she reported a suspected prowler once needed 'high-stress decision making classes.' Sean Grayson, 30, received the recommendation from the Logan County Sheriff's Office in Illinois after he failed to slow down when his boss called off a vehicle pursuit, CNN reports. He was driving around 110mph and struck a deer, just a few years before he shot the 36-year-old mother in her kitchen over a pot of boiling water on July 6, according to records from the sheriff's office. 'Deputy Grayson pursued the truck through Lincoln at a high rate of speed, reaching speeds of 63/30 MPH zones, and in my opinion, failed to show due caution while driving through stop intersections,' the chief deputy wrote at the time. Sean Grayson, 30, was remanded by the Logan County Sheriff's Office in Illinois, which recommended he take 'high-stress decision making classes' The report noted that Grayson's supervisor 'terminated the pursuit,' and Grayson turned off his emergency lights. He then 'continued at a high rate of speed (110/55mph zone) prior to striking the deer.' 'Deputy Grayson acknowledged he lacks experience,' the report said. It would go on to list a series of recommendations, including 'additional traffic stop training, report writing training, high-stress decision making classes and needs to read, understand and discuss issued Logan County Sheriff's Office Policy.' It is unclear whether Grayson ever followed through with those recommendations. He resigned from the Logan County Sheriff's Office in April 2023, and the next month, he joined the sheriff's office in Sangamon County where he shot Massey in the face. The incident came just a few years before Grayson shot and killed Sonya Massey, 36 Massey was shot at three times by Grayson earlier this month after she called police to report a prowler. She had a pot of water boiling on the stove when he arrived, which Grayson asked her to shut off and threatened to shoot her Massey, 36, who had mental health problems, called the police to her home in Springfield, Illinois, in the early hours of July 6 to report a prowler in the area. Two Sangamon County sheriff's deputies responded to the call. After a 30 minute search of the area in which they did not find a suspect, the two went inside Massey's home and engaged her conversation. They then found a pot of boiling water on the stove, which Grayson asked her to shut off and threatened to shoot her. Bodycam footage shows the young woman ducking and apologizing as the deputy fires three times. An autopsy has since determined that Massey was shot in the face below her left eye, which caused her skull to fracture and perforated her carotid artery. That caused her brain to bleed before the bullet exited the back of her upper neck. Massey also suffered from minor blunt force injuries to her right leg, the coroner said. Grayson has since been removed from the force and charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in Massey's death. The former deputy, who lost his job over the shooting, pleaded not guilty to all charges. He is currently being held in the county jail while he awaits trial. Sonya Massey, 36, was a loving mother-of-two who had suffered with mental health issues What led to the shooting of Sonya Massey Sean Grayson and another Sangamon County sheriff's deputy were called to Sonya Massey's home for a suspected prowler at 12:50 a.m. July 6. The two officers searched the exterior of the home for 30 minutes, discovering only a car with smashed windows. During her interactions with the officers, Massey made several mentions of Jesus Christ and the Bible. Massey had placed a pot of possibly hot water on the counter on Grayson's instructions. The victim made a comment about 'rebuking' Grayson in the name of Jesus Christ. Grayson was in the living room when he then drew his firearm and threatened to shoot Massey in the face, prompting her to put her hands in the air, say, 'I'm sorry.' Massey ducks for cover behind a counter separating the two. Grayson moved closer, yelled at Massey to put the pot down and opened fire, hitting her three times, once in the head. Grayson did not render aid and discouraged the other deputy not to provide help. The second deputy, who was not named, stayed by Massey until medics arrived. She was pronounced dead at St. John's Hospital. Advertisement But this isn't Grayson's first go with misconduct while on the job. His discharge from the Army was listed under 'misconduct (serious offense),' according to documents obtained by ABC News. The Army declined to release further information regarding Grayson's discharge, citing the Privacy Act and Department of Defense policy that prevents the release of information regarding conduct of low-level employees. Grayson worked as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic for the Army between May 2014 to February 2016 and he left with a rank of private first class, a spokesperson told ABC News. During his time in the military, he was charged with a DUI offense in Illinois in August 2015 and another shortly after his discharge in July 2016 in the same county, ABC News reported. He paid thousands of dollars in fines for the unlawful act and his car was impounded after the 2015 incident, records show. Grayson has also hopped around various police forces, working for six agencies in four years. His first police job was at the Pawnee Police Department, where he held a part-time position between August 2020 and July 2021, according to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB). He also worked at the Kincaid Police Department from February 2021 to May 2021 and Virden Police Department from May 2021 to December 2021. Both were part-time positions. Grayson held full-time positions from Auburn Police Department from July 2021 to May 2022 and Logan County Sheriff's Office from May 2022 to April 2023. He started at Sangamon County in May 2023, according to ILETSB. Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who is representing Massey's family, has now asked why Grayson 'was even on the sheriff's department in the first place.' In a statement announcing Grayson's termination, Logan County Sheriff Jack Campbell said it was 'clear that the deputy did not act as trained or in accordance with our standards. In a follow-up statement on July 22, the sheriff wrote: 'Grayson had other options available that he should have used. His actions were inexcusable and do not reflect the values or training of our office. He will now face judgment by the criminal justice system and will never again work in law enforcement. 'Ms. Massey needlessly lost her life, and her family deserves answers. I trust the legal process will provide them.' Several beaches in San Diego County have been closed due to high bacteria levels, health officials have revealed. A total of four beaches were shuttered following the discovery Saturday, all along the U.S, Mexico border. Among them was Imperial Beach, which a study recently crowned the dirtiest beach in the country. All are considered victims of Tijuana's broken infrastructure, as the city continues to pump sewage onto the California side of the border. The tainted water flows north to not only Imperial Beach, but the Silver Strand State Beach, Coronado Beach, and along Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge - where the Tijuana River meets the Pacific just south of Imperial. All were closed Saturday due to the presence of potentially harmful bacteria - as several water contact advisories were issued nearby warning swimmers to proceed at their own risk. Scroll down for video: Several beaches in San Diego County have been closed due to high bacteria levels, health officials have revealed. A polluted Imperial Beach is seen here A total of four beaches were shuttered following the discovery Saturday, all along the U.S, Mexico border where sewage is seeping through from Tijuana 'CLOSURE: Bacteria levels exceed health standards,' an update from the San Diego Coastkeeper read Sunday night. 'Avoid water contact in the advisory area.' The alert applied to all four of the aforementioned beaches, which are all set within a few miles of each other along the Southern California coast. There, over the course of several miles beginning from the other side of the international border, floats pounds of raw human waste, as the city of Tijuana continues to grow faster than its infrastructure. The resulting problem is thus seen just south of Imperial Beach near the wildlife refuge, before it moves northward to Imperial, the Silver Strand State, and Coronado. 'In Tijuana, they always seem to be fixing the same broken pipe,' said environmentalist and former mayor of Imperial Beach Serge Dedina of the prospective cause late last year. 'There is always a pipe broken, there's always some problem,' Dedina said. 'And the problem now is 365 days a year, seven days a week, 24 hours a day.' The pollution thus begins just south of Imperial Beach near the wildlife refuge, before it moves northward to Imperial, the Silver Strand State, and Coronado. It's being brought by Tijuana's broken infrastructure, experts say - as the city continues to pump sewage onto the California side of the border The politician proceeded to accuse officials in both Tijuana and Baja California of not taking proper care of the city's sewer system - to the point where the system has essentially collapsed, allowing raw sewage to enter the US via the river and surrounding ocean. 'And no one's going to say a word about it,' he said. Current Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre, meanwhile, claimed the once popular beach is hit by some 40 million gallons of sewage every day, telling NBC San Diego at the start of the year: 'You have anything from heavy metals in the water to chemicals to chlorinated pesticides. 'There's traces of feces in the water,' she added. 'It's the worst stuff you can possibly imagine,' Dedina further told the outlet. 'Raw human waste.' 'Our local beach here behind me has been closed every single day this year,' Aguirre added at the time 'It's devastating. We have an entire generation of kids that are now college age that don't know what it is to have clean water at their hometown.' 'There's traces of feces in the water,' one local official recently said of the situation. 'It's the worst stuff you can possibly imagine', another sniped 'Raw human waste,' one official said - as local continue to accuse officials in both Tijuana and Baja California of not taking proper care of the city's sewer system. The toxic tide seen in Imperial Beach - seen here - and other shores nearby is the result As of writing, all of the beaches remain closed, until sampling confirms those areas are safe for contact. Officials from the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health urged members of the public to avoid water contact in the interim, even as shorelines along Mission Bay North Cove and La Jolla Children's Pool are not closed, but still have bacteria levels exceeding standards. 'Bacteria levels exceed health standards. Avoid water contact in the advisory area,' Sunday statements for those nearby beaches read. As of writing, none of the alerts have been lifted. An update is expected at some point this week. The mother of a British man who disappeared while volunteering on a farm in Sardinia has made a desperate plea for his safe return. Michael Frison, 25, from Chard, in Somerset, has not been seen since leaving for a walk in rural Luras on July 13. Mr Frison, who grew up in Bristol, had been visiting family while volunteering in the northern side of the island. A police search was suspended on Friday. His mother Cristina Pittalis has now flown to the island, where she said her son left this phone, laptop and ID at his accommodation. In a video shared on social media, Ms Pittalis said Mr Frison's younger brother Emanuele had been 'suffering from your absence'. Michael Frison, 25, (pictured) from Chard, in Somerset, has not been seen since leaving for a walk in rural Luras, Sardina on July 13 Mr Frison, (pictured) who grew up in Bristol, had been visiting family while volunteering in the northern side of the island Mr Frison went missing in northern Sardinia on Saturday before authorities began searches She said: 'I know you are alive. I'm looking for you, and I am very worried. 'I understand how close you two are, and he loves you very much. 'I feel in my heart that you are alive.' 'I know that seeing the civil service or even the Carabinieri [police] looking for you might make you scared,' the worried mother added. 'You don't need to be afraid to be found. Don't hesitate to approach someone for help if you need water or food. 'Remember how much Emanuele is suffering from your absence. He even sent you a voice message.' In a voice message Mr Frison's younger brother said: 'I miss you, come home. 'Whoever receives this message, find my brother and tell them I sent this message. 'Tell him my name. Tell him I miss him and I love him.' A fundraiser has been set up to try and raised funds to get volunteers out to Sardinia in the search for Mr Frison's. It has raised 2,765 so far. Michael's mother shared a picture of him taken last week in a plea for help in local searches Mr Frison's mother Cristina Pittalis has now flown to the island, where she said her son left this phone, laptop and ID at his accommodation A fundraiser has been set up to try and raised funds to get volunteers out to Sardinia in the search for Mr Frison. It has raised 2,765 so far Organiser Evie Baker wrote: 'On Saturday 13th July Michael went missing in Sardinia. He was due to start some volunteering but felt unwell, not used to the hot climate and possibly dehydrated he was given water and went to sleep. 'When he woke he said he was going for a walk and now sadly he is missing. 'I can't tell you how genuinely lovely this family is I'm absolutely heartbroken for them.' Mr Frison is one of three people who have been missing since Sunday in northern Sardinia, Italian media has reported. An elderly Italian tourist also disappeared on holiday in Valledoria, and an elderly woman vanished in Stintino. The missing tourist in Valledoria was identified only as a tourist with health problems, holidaying in the region. The tourist in Stintino was identified as Carla Visentin when her family alerted authorities. She was reported to have disappeared from the area of Cala Lupo on Sunday. She also has health problems and moves with difficulty, according to local media. Authorities have been engaged in a 'non-stop' search for the three missing people since Sunday evening, La Repubblica reported. The investigations stretch police resources with temperatures rising across the continent. Greece was most recently hit by a spate of tragic disappearances, with Petros Vassilakis, the police spokesman for the Southern Aegean, claiming there was a 'common pattern' of tourists going for a walk amid high temperatures. By June 26 it was reported six people had been found dead from heat-related incidents, with authorities urging caution in the heat wave. Daily Mail columnist Michael Mosley was found dead on the island of Symi, another Aegean islands, on June 9 after a four-day search operation by land, sea and air. He had taken a walk alone in high temperatures before going missing. And authorities investigating the disappearance of Briton Jay Slater, 19, today recovered the remains of a body on Tenerife, nearly a month since his disappearance. Although Spanish police are awaiting full identification, they say that 'everything is pointing to it being' Jay, who they said could have 'suffered an accident or fall in the inaccessible area where he was found'. Despite concerns about the weather, most missing people are found or return within the first few days of going missing, according to the Metropolitan Police. Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner of Venezuela's presidential race on Sunday - but the opposition and key regional neighbours immediately rejected the results and accused the longtime incumbent of election fraud. Maduro - who warned citizens there would be a 'bloodbath' were he to lose - secured re-election with 51.2 percent of votes, while opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia received 44.2 percent, the electoral council announced. The 61-year-old addressed supporters at the presidential palace minutes after the announcement, declaring: 'I can say, before the people of Venezuela and the world, I am Nicolas Maduro Moros, the re-elected president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. 'There will be peace, stability and justice. Peace and respect for the law.' But Venezuela's opposition coalition insisted it had garnered 70 percent of the vote, rejecting the figures from Maduro's loyalist electoral authority. Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves also denounced the official result as 'fraudulent,' while Chile's president described it as 'hard to believe.' Peru announced it had recalled its ambassador for consultation over the results, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed 'serious concerns' that the result did not reflect the will of Venezuelan voters. Venezuela's reelected president Nicolas Maduro addresses after the results of the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela on July 29, 2024 Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro (L) delivers a speech after learning the results of the presidential elections in Caracas, Venezuela, 29 July 2024 Venezuelans living in Argentina react to President Nicolas Maduro winning a third term in the presidential election, in Buenos Aires, Argentina July 29, 2024 Venezuelans react after the results of the presidential election Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, right, and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez hold a press conference after electoral authorities declared President Nicolas Maduro the winner of the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela, Monday, July 29 Venezuelan citizens gather to wait for the results of the presidential elections Independent polls had predicted Sunday's vote would bring an end to 25 years of 'Chavismo,' the populist movement founded by Maduro's socialist predecessor and mentor, the late Hugo Chavez. Since 2013, Maduro has been at the helm of the once wealthy petro-state where GDP dropped by 80 percent in a decade, pushing more than seven million of its 30 million citizens to emigrate. He is accused of locking up critics and harassing the opposition in a climate of rising authoritarianism. Maduro was running against opposition candidate and former diplomat Urrutia, who replaced popular opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on the ticket after authorities loyal to Maduro excluded her from the race. Machado, 56 - who campaigned far and wide for her proxy - had urged voters on Sunday to keep 'vigil' at their polling stations in the 'decisive hours' of counting amid widespread fears of fraud. Urrutia, 74, had said the opposition was 'prepared to defend' the vote and trusted 'our armed forces to respect the decision of our people.' He added there had been a 'massive' voter turnout. 'We want to say to all of Venezuela and the world that Venezuela has a new president-elect and it is (candidate) Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia,' Machado told journalists after the result was returned. 'We won,' she said flatly. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro celebrates after the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela July 29, 2024 Venezuelans living in Argentina react to President Nicolas Maduro winning a third term in the presidential election, in Buenos Aires, Argentina July 29, 2024 A Venezuelan citizen reacts after learning the results of the first official bulletin of the presidential elections, outside the Venezuelan Embassy in Panama City, Panama, 28 July 2024 Women run as Venezuelans residing in Mexico react outside the consulate following the announcement of Venezuela's presidential election, in Mexico City, Mexico July 28, 2024 Venezuelan President and presidential candidate Nicolas Maduro delivers a speech following the presidential election results in Caracas on July 29, 2024 Venezuelan nationals residing in Spain hold their national flag during a demonstration to demand political change in their country during Venezuela's presidential election day, in Barcelona on July 28, 2024 Rejecting opinion polls prior to the election, the government relied on its own numbers to assert Maduro would defeat Urrutia. Maduro counts on a loyal electoral apparatus, military leadership and state institutions in a system of well-established political patronage. On Friday, a Venezuelan NGO said Caracas was holding 305 'political prisoners' and had arrested 135 people with links to the opposition campaign since January. Ballots were cast on machines that print paper receipts placed into a container. The electronic votes go directly to a centralized CNE database. The opposition had deployed about 90,000 volunteer election monitors to polling stations countrywide. Sunday's election was the product of a mediated deal reached last year between the government and opposition. The agreement to hold the vote led the United States to temporarily ease sanctions imposed after Maduro's 2018 re-election, which was rejected as a sham by dozens of Western and Latin American countries. But the sanctions were snapped back after Maduro reneged on agreed conditions. Top officials in neighbouring countries cast doubt on Maduro's victory almost immediately following the return of the election result. 'I condemn in all extremity the sum of irregularities with the intention of fraud committed by the Venezuelan government. Peru will not accept the violation of the popular will of the Venezuelan people,' Peruvian Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez-Olaechea posted on X. 'The Peruvian ambassador to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has been immediately recalled for consultations.' 'Maduro's regime must understand that the results are hard to believe. The international community and especially the Venezuelan people, including the millions of Venezuelans in exile, demand total transparency,' Chile President Gabriel Boric said on X. 'From Chile we will not recognise any result that is not verifiable.' And a message from the Costa Rican presidential office read: 'The Government categorically rejects the proclamation of Nicolas Maduro as president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which we consider to be fraudulent.' Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez react after the electoral authority announced that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has won a third term, during the presidential election, in Caracas, Venezuela July 29, 2024 Venezuelan nationals residing in Spain hold a demonstration to demand political change in their country during Venezuela's presidential election day While the US and many of Venezuela's neighbours condemned the allegedly fraudulent election, Maduro enjoyed strong support from powerful members of the international community. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Maduro this morning, announcing: 'Russian-Venezuelan relations have the character of a strategic partnership. I am confident that your work at the head of state will continue to contribute to their progressive development in all areas. 'Remember that you are always welcome on Russian soil,' Putin said, according to the Kremlin. China also congratulated Maduro on his re-election, with foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian announcing: 'China congratulates Venezuela for smoothly holding its presidential election and congratulates President Maduro on his successful re-election. 'China stands ready to enrich our all-weather strategic partnership and better benefit the peoples of both countries,' he said. 'China and Venezuela are good friends and partners who support each other,' he added. Beijing is Venezuela's main creditor and has close ties with the diplomatically isolated, inflation-ravaged socialist nation. Maduro visited China in September, meeting President Xi Jinping and declaring the 'historic' visit was aimed at 'strengthening cooperation and the construction of a new world order'. Venezuela's reelected president Nicolas Maduro addresses after the results of the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela on July 29, 2024 Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado reacts following the presidential election results in Caracas on July 29, 2024 U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed 'serious concerns' that the election result did not reflect the will of Venezuelan voters Washington is keen for a return to stability in Venezuela - an ally of Cuba, Russia and China that boasts the world's largest oil reserves but severely diminished production capacity. Economic misery in the South American nation has been a major source of migration pressure on the US southern border. Most Venezuelans live on just a few dollars a month, with the country's health care and education systems in disrepair and the population enduring biting shortages of electricity and fuel. The government blames sanctions, but observers also point the finger at corruption and government inefficiency. Machado said earlier Sunday that if Maduro 'grabs power,' another 'three, four, five million' Venezuelans will likely join the exodus. 'What's at stake here goes beyond our borders, beyond Venezuela,' she said. Concerns over the fairness of the vote were earlier stoked when Caracas blocked several international observers, including four Latin American ex-presidents, at the last minute. About 21 million Venezuelans were registered as voters, but only an estimated 17 million still in the country were eligible to cast ballots. Speaking in Tokyo, US Secretary of State Blinken said: 'We have seen the announcement just a short while ago by the Venezuelan Electoral Commission - we have serious concerns that the result announced does not reflect the will or the votes of the Venezuelan people. 'It's critical that every vote be counted fairly and transparently that the electoral authorities immediately share information with the opposition and independent observers without delay and that the electoral authorities publish the tabulation of votes. 'The international community is watching this very closely and will respond accordingly,' Blinken said. A former child bride who was beaten and raped by her husband in Saudi Arabia thought she was finally safe in Australia, until a gang of men arrived in a Mercedes and dragged her back to the airport. Lolita was forced to marry when she was 11, had her first child at 13, and lived a life of abuse and sexual servitude until she finally managed to escape to Melbourne in about 2020. She made a friend, Ali - a Sudanese truck driver who grew up in Saudi Arabia - who put her in touch with lawyer Alison Battisson to help her lodge a protection visa application in June 2022. Her case was based on the fact that she fled extreme violence at home under Saudi guardianship laws, which essentially state that women are the property of their father, husband, or closest male relative. The department rejected the claim in December, so she applied to have her case reviewed in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. In August, Ms Battisson was shocked when she got an email back from the AAT saying it was not able to review Lolita's case because she was no longer in the country. After months trying to track her down, Ms Battisson finally found out a group of men had arrived at Lolita's house last May and told her to pack a bag because they were taking her back to Saudi Arabia. The case is eerily similar to young Saudi sisters Asra and Amaal Alsehli who were found dead in their unit in Canterbury, in Sydney's south-west, in 2022. They had also fled to Australia, and spent their final months terrified they were being followed. Lolita was forced to marry when she was 11, had her first child at 13, and lived a life of abuse and sexual servitude until she finally managed to escape to Melbourne in about 2020 Officials ruled their deaths were the result of a suicide pact, but Ms Battisson told Daily Mail Australia that people in the Saudi community believe they were murdered. Ali told The Australian Lolita called him once the men arrived at her house on May 23, 2023. 'They want to force me. They want to take me to the airport. They told me to pack my bags. Please help! I don't want to go back. I don't want to go back,' she screamed. He raced to her house and saw a black Mercedes outside. He told the publication the men threatened him and had information about him that only the Saudi embassy in Canberra would know. Ali went to the airport in the hope he would be able to intercept them and cause a scene to get security involved, but there was no sign of her. No one in Australia has seen Lolita since. Flight records indicate someone called Hanan Safeeraldeen left the country four days later, on May 27, but airport security footage from that time has since been destroyed and there are no records of who bought the ticket, or who she was sitting next to. Hanan is the name of Lolita's half-sister, who died in a car accident when she was a child. Lolita was forced to take on Hanan's identity because her dead sister was documented in Saudi Arabia, whereas Lolita's wasn't. Pictured: Amaal Abdullah Alsehli, 23. Her body was found on June 7, 2022, in her Canterbury apartment Pictured: Asra Abdullah Alsehli, 24. She and her sister were found dead in Sydney's south-west Her passport has Hanan's name and says she is 41. Records from Ummul Al Qura University in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, state Hanan Safeeraldeen graduated with a bachelors degree in social services. She now prefers to go by her birthname, Lolita. She told Ali that she is 32 and has three children. Her oldest is a 19-year-old son. Lolita was bright and bubbly, she was supporting herself with a catering job, and her favourite thing about Australia was that she was responsible for herself and could make decisions about her own life - in a way she never could in Saudi Arabia. Ms Battisson told Daily Mail Australia she had assumed Lolita was dead after the kidnapping, but has since received confirmation that she is alive and has been pushing the Australian government to issue a humanitarian visa. She believes Lolita has either been locked in a prison cell for defying the guardianship laws, or she has been released back into the custody of her husband. 'One of the reasons I'm concerned and pushing the Australian government for a visa is because every day she's in a Saudi prison is another day where she risks extraordinary abuse or death,' Ms Battisson said. 'I think there is actually a time imperative for a decision on her visa to give her some consular assistance.' She said the visa would give a legitimate reason for either herself, or someone from the Australian consulate or the Department of Foreign Affairs, to communicate with her and provide assistance. Alison Battisson (pictured) has been trying to get a visa for Lolita so she can be brought back to Australia 'It would be hard to find her, but I have this concern she's been returned to her husband against her will and has a sense that she's been forgotten about, or left to rot inside some prison because she dared to try and live in a safe country,' Ms Battisson said. 'I think we can do better than that in Australia.' Ms Battisson has tried to lobby the government over foreign interference - at the very least, she would like women who flee violent situation and seek asylum in Australia to go onto a watch list. When she reported foreign interference to various government bodies, she said no one seemed surprised. 'There have been instances in Australia and other countries of Saudi Arabian women being targeted for return and killed, and what really gets me is that it's preventable,' she said. 'If her name had been placed on an airport watchlist for Saudi Arabian women in danger, there's a possibility that this can be stopped.' The Attorney-General's office, which oversees the Australian Federal Police, told Daily Mail Australia it could not comment on this case. Home Affairs, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Canberra has also been contacted. There is a change.org petition to bring Lolita back to Australia. Do you know more? Email charlotte.karp@mailonline.com Firefighters are battling a massive wildfire that has torn through northern California at a rate of 5,000 acres per hour. Nearly 4,000 firefighters are battling the Park Fire, which by Sunday had burned more than 360,000 acres, making it the seventh-largest ever recorded in the state's history. The blaze has prompted orders for some 4,200 people to flee their Butte County homes, including residents in the town of Paradise - which was ravaged in 2018 by the deadly Camp Fire and again by the Dixie Fire three years later. The Park Fire broke out on Wednesday, when authorities say someone pushed a burning car into a gully in Chico and then fled. A man accused of setting the fire was arrested on Thursday and is due in court today. Firefighters increased containment to 12 per cent on Sunday, aided partly by improving weather, cooler temperatures and more humidity, officials said. Nearly 4,000 firefighters are battling the Park Fire, pictured burning along Highway 32 near Butte Meadows, California on Sunday. The blaze has burned more than 360,000 acres, making it the seventh-largest ever recorded in the state's history The blaze has prompted orders for some 4,200 people to flee their Butte County homes, including residents in the town of Paradise - which was ravaged in 2018 by the deadly Camp Fire and again by the Dixie Fire three years later Some 4,000 personnel are working on the Park Fire, which is burning through a largely rural, mountainous area about 90 miles (145 kilometers) north of state capital Sacramento. Aircraft and bulldozers have been drawn in the fight. The fire is split between Butte County, where 53,000 acres have burned, and neighboring Tehema County, where 304,000 acres have gone up in flames. The blaze has generated an enormous column of dense gray smoke which has also been blown over nearby states. Progress was made amid light wind and cool weather Saturday, allowing firefighters to declare 12 percent of the blaze controlled, Cal Fire incident commander Billy See told a news conference. But he warned that as of Sunday, 'we're starting to get some solar heating, and we're also getting increased winds in the upper canyons'. Operations section chief Mark Brunton said firefighters are facing multiple challenges including rugged terrain, adding: 'We're starting to see increased fire activity'. Reinforcements have been called in and are expected to give much-needed rest to local firefighters, some of whom have been working nonstop since Wednesday.. 'This fire is surprising a lot of people with its explosive growth,' Jay Tracy, a Park Fire headquarters spokesperson, said. 'It is kind of unparalleled.' A firefighter sprays water on the Park Fire in Lomo, California on Sunday. The fire is split between Butte County, where 53,000 acres have burned, and neighboring Tehema County, where 304,000 acres have gone up in flames Progress was made amid light wind and cool weather Saturday, allowing firefighters to declare 12 percent of the blaze controlled. Pictured are firefighters working to control the Park Fire, near Forest Ranch, California on Sunday Trees burn from the Park Fire in Tehama County on Sunday. The blaze broke out on Wednesday, when officials say someone pushed a burning car into a gully in Chico and then fled Fire officials said crews are facing multiple challenges including rugged terrain. Firefighters are pictured standing by the road near a fire, near Jonesville, California on Sunday Aircraft and bulldozers have been drawn in the fight against the Park Fire. Crews are pictured near Highway 32, in Mill Creek, California on Sunday The Park Fire had scorched an area greater than the city of Los Angeles as of Sunday, darkening the sky with smoke and engaging thousands of firefighters. The blaze spanned more than 562 square miles of inland Northern California. No deaths have been reported, but the blaze has destroyed at least 66 structures and damaged five others, added Tracy. Authorities initially believed 134 structures were lost, based on drone footage, but lowered the number after assessing the damage in person, while acknowledging the figure could increase. Millions of people were under air quality alerts on Sunday in the north-western US and western Canada. Although cooler-than-average temperatures are expected through the middle of this week, that does not mean existing fires will disappear, warned Marc Chenard, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Centre in Maryland. A 'red flag' warning was in effect for the region on Sunday, meaning dry fuels and stronger winds were increasing the fire danger, the weather service said. University of California, Los Angeles climate scientist Daniel Swain predicts the Park Fire 'will likely be burning for weeks, if not months' and told The New York Times that there is 'almost no possibility' it will be contained in the near future. Managing evacuation orders in the area has been complex. Authorities were about to downgrade an order to an evacuation warning for Forest Ranch when they learned a number of hot spots were reported nearby, Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea said. 'That illustrates how rapidly things can change,' Honea said. 'We were all set to be able to reduce that order to get people back in there.' In Southern California, about 2,000 people were ordered to evacuate because of a fire sweeping through the Sequoia National Forest. The wind-driven blaze was fed by dried, dead plants and moving fast, eating up more than 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) in four days, Andrew Freeborn of the Kern County Fire Department said. The blaze has generated an enormous column of dense gray smoke. Firefighters are pictured battling the Park Fire near Highway 32, in Mill Creek, California on Sunday A 'red flag' warning was in effect for the region on Sunday, meaning dry fuels and stronger winds were increasing the fire danger. Pictured is the Park Fire burning along Highway 32 near Butte Meadows, California on Sunday Firefighters work to control the Park Fire along Highway 32, near Jonesville, California A firefighter works the Park Fire, which has currently burned over 353,194 acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), in Lomo, California A firefighter from the city of Monterey monitors flareups from the Park Fire near Butte Meadows, California on Sunday Officials did not expect the blaze to move farther into Chico, a city of about 100,000 people just west of Paradise, and over the next three days crews plan to extinguish hot spots and remove hazards, Pierce said. Chico is only about 15 miles from Paradise, a city devastated by the 2018 Camp Fire that ranked as California's most deadly ever, claiming 85 lives. The fire's southernmost front, which is closest to Paradise, was 'looking really good,' Cal Fire operations section chief Jeremy Pierce said around midday Sunday. But residents, especially those who lived through the 'traumatizing' Camp Fire six years ago, say the latest blaze is 'hard to talk about' and a bit 'triggering'. Paradise Mayor Ron Lassonde told KCRA: 'Every once in a while, we smell smoke or see smoke like that, it does trigger us. It triggers the people here in Paradise. When you go through trauma, that's what happens.' Ava Elsner, who lived through the Camp Fire, added that having your entire community engulfed by flames is 'most traumatizing, terrifying, and saddening thing'. 'I don't want anyone else to experience this,' she added. 'To see my parents go through this is just really hard. I want to stay strong for them and comfort them the way that they did for me. And it's just, it's just difficult.' Jerry White, 72, left his Magalia home of 50 years when authorities issued an evacuation warning this week. Years earlier White sustained third-degree burns and the memory of that pain made him take the warning seriously. 'I don't want to catch fire again. It's one of the worst pains you can endure,' White said. 'I wanted to get out of dodge. Burns are bad.' A plan drops fire retardant on the Park Fire near Forest Ranch, Calif., Sunday, July 28, 2024 Firefighters wait for supplies and orders before attacking the Park Fire, which has currently burned over 353,194 acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), in Tehama County, California A bulldozer crew watch the Park Fire from a hillside looking down on Highway 32, near Forest Ranch, California on Sunday The Park Fire burns along Highway 32 near Butte Meadows, California A firefighter works to control the Park Fire, near Forest Ranch, California Firefighters monitor flames from the Park Fire along Highway 36, near Lyonsville, California The Park Fire, the largest wildfire in California this year, was one of more than 100 blazes burning in the US on Sunday, according to the National Interagency Fire Centre. Fires burned across eastern Oregon and eastern Idaho, where officials were assessing damage from a group of blazes called the Gwen Fire, which was estimated at 43 square miles as of Sunday. Experts say climate change, accelerated by human action, is leading to more extreme weather events. In Oregon, the Durkee Fire, which was sparked by a lightning strike earlier this month, has consumed nearly 290,000 acres and was about 50 percent contained, the state's wildfire response and recovery agency said. In western Canada, wildfires destroyed nearly a third of the beloved tourist town of Jasper before they were put under control on Sunday. In western Canada, wildfires destroyed nearly a third of the beloved tourist town of Jasper before they were put under control on Sunday. Pictured is the burned remains of a vehicle in Jasper, Canada on July 26, 2024 A grizzly bear guards a carcass after a wildfire sweeping through Alberta's mountainous Jasper National Park left charred forests, near the town of Jasper, Alberta, Canada on July 26, 2024 Fire crews work to put out hotspots in the Maligne Lodge in Jasper, Alberta, Canada, on Friday, July 26, 2024 Sigmund Freud did not believe that all humans' suppressed feelings were due to erotic fantasies, according to a scholar who has uncovered the reason behind the popular misconception. Following a re-examination of one of the psychoanalyst's key works, The Interpretation of Dreams, Mark Solms revealed mistranslations have led to people getting the wrong impression of the Austrian's views - which are often seen as controversial and outlandish. Solms, a renowned South African psychoanalyst, will correct several errors in the revised English edition of the work and aims to challenge the misconception that Freud believed the erotic drive was the driving factor behind much of human behaviour. He told The Guardian that Freud had a 'very broad understanding of sexuality'. 'For him, any activity that was pleasure-seeking in its own right anything that one does for the purposes of pleasure alone, as opposed to practical purposes was 'sexual',' he said. It has been revealed that the founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, was not as sex obsessed as many people believe One of Freud's most widely recognised theories is the Oedipus complex - named after the Greek hero who had sex with his mother and murdered his father Mark Solms, a renowned South African psychoanalyst, will correct several errors in a revised English edition of Freud's The Interpretation of Dreams. Pictured: Solms attends Neuropsychoanalysis Foundation 2nd Annual Benefit at Private Residence NYC on November 5, 2009 In this way, a child sucking a dummy or playing with a ball were seen as Freud as 'sexual', in the sense that they were pure sources of enjoyment. Solms believes that this theory extended the word 'so far beyond common usage that it led to significant misunderstanding of his theories'. Due to this, activities that were purely pleasurable but not 'sexual' in the commonly understood sense of the word, were pushed into the misleading category, he added. The scholar claimed that the idea that everything was connected to libido is a misinterpretation of Freud's theory and who he was as an individual. Speaking of the artists who took Freud as an inspiration in their works, he said: 'None of them understood that Freud was a rather conservative gentleman and shared none of their revolutionary social inclinations'. According to the psychoanalyst, these artists also got Freud's theories wrong. 'His taste in art, too, was really very conservative. Freud described Dali as a fanatic,' he added. One of Freud's most widely recognised theories is the Oedipus complex - named after the Greek hero who had sex with his mother and murdered his father. In Freud's Interpretation of Dreams, the founder of psychoanalysis put forward the controversial psychoanalytic theory that young boys have a sexual desire for their mother and hostility toward their father. These feelings are largely repressed because of the fear of displeasure or punishment by the parent of the same sex, according to the theory. Such taboo theories have made him a controversial figure, but Solm aims to clear Freud's name, saying: 'There are some people who would rather see Freud forgotten than retranslated. 'They would prefer it if he was airbrushed out of history.' Solmss entire revised edition, a 24-volume piece, was commissioned by the British Psychoanalytic Society to mark the 50th anniversary of the publication of the last segment of Freuds works It is set to be released in Britain at the Freud Museum in London on September 19, two days ahead of a special conference at University College London. A controversial TikTok lawyer representing two men who were filmed being violently arrested at Manchester airport has dramatically dropped the case. Greater Manchester Police was plunged into crisis last week after horrifying footage emerged of an officer kicking Muhammed Fahir, 19, while he was arrested alongside his brother Amaad. However, a new CCTV clip obtained over the weekend has shed more light on the incident as it shows Fahir attacking three officers just seconds before he was kicked on the ground. In response, the family's solicitor Akhmed Yakoob released a video on Instagram on Sunday night, declaring: 'After consulting with the family I have decided for now to step aside and I have recommended the family to a lawyer'. He claimed widespread attention surrounding the case was 'unfair on the Greater Manchester Police and the family'. Akhmed Yakoob released a video on Instagram on Sunday night, declaring: 'After consulting with the family I have decided for now to step aside and I have recommended the family to a lawyer' This is the moment in the original footage that sparked controversy after a police officer was seen kicking the young man on the ground in the head - but new footage has now shown what happened in the moments running up to this Mr Yakoob pictured outside Rochdale Police Station on Thursday as he announced he was representing two men who were arrested at Manchester Airport on Tuesday He added: 'I will be keeping a close eye on this. 'I would like to say that I am not for violence whether it's from police officers or it's from civilians, always remember that.' The new footage of the officer in question and two female colleagues coming under attack shows 'we need to protect the protectors', the Greater Manchester Police Federation has said. The federation added that the new video casts the incident in a 'very different light'. Richard Cooke, chairman of the West Midlands Police Federation, agreed and said the fresh clip gave a 'different perspective altogether', adding: 'We lost over 5,000 colleagues in the year to March voluntarily leaving. Assaulted repeatedly, poorly paid for the risks, slagged-off by clueless idiots. 'After this week that trend will only accelerate. I don't blame any of them.' Yakoob, 36, has 200,000 followers on TikTok and regularly posts videos wearing Prada trainers, a glittering diamond watch, tinted gold-framed sunglasses and Gareth Southgate-like waistcoats. The Lamborghini-loving father-of-four uses the platform to post polished clips in which he tells followers he is 'the best defence lawyer in the UK' and 'there is a defence for every offence. He has admitted to using TikTok to find clients and posts videos of his flamboyant lifestyle wearing designer clothing, a glittering diamond watch and tinted gold-framed sunglasses. Mr Yakoob stood as an Independent candidate in the Birmingham Ladywood constituency on a pro-Gaza, anti-Labour platform at the last General Election. He also has close links to George Galloway's Workers Party of Britain. Lawyer Akhmed Yakoob pictured at the count for the West Midlands Mayoral Election in May where he stood as a pro-Gaza independent candidate The Birmingham-based solicitor has shared photos of himself online next to a string of expensive cars including Lamborghinis Lawyer Akhmed Yakoob (centre) with Fahir and Amaad Khan. He has said 'justice must prevail' after footage of the Manchester Airport incident went viral But he has courted controversy by teaching people how to frustrate police interviews and bragging about getting a reduced sentence for drug dealers. The lawyer has been accused of promoting false claims of racism against a teacher, something which has seen him put under investigation by the solicitors' regulator. He was also slammed for joking about violence against woman and defending self-style misogynist Andrew Tate. In response to a fellow podcast guest saying he would give his wife a 'backhander' if she made money dancing on TikTok, Mr Yakoob replied: 'Brother, are you saying if she comes up in your personal space, you will defend yourself?' He was also slammed for joking about violence against woman and comments made about a number of LGBT issues. In a video interview broadcast last year, Mr Yakoob was introduced as 'the most famous solicitor in the world right now' by Mikey Melin, the host of YouTube documentary channel The Blue Tick Show. In the interview, Mr Yakoob said: 'What if a man goes into the ladies' bathroom and says, ''I'm not a man, I'm a woman''. 'Well if my wife's in there I'm sparking him out. And there ain't no defence for that offence.' Laughter followed before Mr Melin added: 'I would accept the time, f*** it, put me inside.' Mr Yakoob also revealed that he had pulled his children out of state education and put them into an Islamic school because he did not want them being exposed to 'LGBT messages.' He insisted that he and any Muslim cannot 'promote' positive LGBT issues because doing so is prohibited in their faith - a claim that was condemned by some faith leaders, academics and gay Muslims. Meanwhile, colleagues of the suspended officer refused to carry their weapons in a show of support. A source close to the firearms unit told The Sun: 'There is real anger at the way this has been handled and they didn't feel they could safely carry their weapons after the officer was suspended.' They said at the point the officer kicked Fahir's head, he was 'disoriented' from being punched in the face and feared his gun had been snatched. His shock announcement came just hours after he said that 'nothing can justify' the actions shown by police. New footage has shown the moments before a Greater Manchester Police officer was filmed kicking a teenager in the head at Manchester Airport The new footage shows Fahir seemingly hitting a female police officer with a punch to her head As the first officer points his Taser at Amaad, Fahir grabs him from behind in a chokehold One female police officer can be seen slumped to the ground, while the other is hit by Fahir The police officers attempt to bring the men under control after the scene descended into chaos He said: 'After reviewing the CCTV footage from Manchester Airport, nothing can justify a kick to the head to a defenceless man and a stomp to the head. 'Those are my views. These officers are highly trained, they shouldn't be losing control or seeing red.' GMP said one of the two female police officers suffered a broken nose during the violent assault. During the melee, two officers were punched to the ground before officers were able to restrain the suspects with Tasers. The family of the man kicked in the head have said they have 'real concern for any police officer injured'. A source representing the family involved told the BBC: 'If anyone broke the law they should face due process.' In response to Greater Manchester's Mayor Andy Burnham's calls for people to withhold judgement until they have the full context, they said there is 'no context justifying an assault when someone is on the ground'. The Just Stop Oil eco zealots who temporarily blocked Gatwick Airport departures this morning by sitting on the floor have been arrested after forcing furious families with children to amble over them in order to make their flights. At around 8am, seven protesters wearing Just Stop Oil t-shirts and carrying placards in their trademark orange, entered the Southern terminal and tried to obstruct the departure gates by erecting a wall of suitcases. But, their protest was rather embarrassingly thwarted when passengers realised there was nothing to stop them simply walking over the clumsily assembled blockade. If it was disruption they were after, sadly for Just Stop Oil it didn't work. Gatwick confirmed that the airport was open and flights were operating as usual on Monday morning and that the protesters had been removed and arrested. In scenes not too dissimilar from a game of Twister, families laden with heavy bags clutched their children's hands as they clambered over the blockade leaving the eco-loons fuming on the floor. The group's latest stunt, which is part of their plan to cause a 'summer of chaos' at UK airports, fell on the first day of the summer holidays when departure gates were at their busiest with hordes of young families jetting off on breaks. Ever the showmen, the group had announced their stunt on social media, proudly crowing 'BREAKING: GATWICK DEPARTURE GATES BLOCKED' however many users mocked the stunt branding it 'pathetic' and a 'complete waste of time'. At around 8am, seven of the activists entered the Southern terminal at Gatwick Just Stop Oil 's eco-clowns have blocked Gatwick Airport departures today Activists from Just Stop Oil Sat and blocked the departures gate at Gatwick Airport JSO targeted the South Terminal in the latest in their ongoing campaign of disruption 'Not really blocked if people are stepping over them,' one wrote, with another branding it 'pathetic'. A third added: 'Despicable, kids and families going on holiday.' A fourth said: 'Stopping ordinary people having a well deserved holiday or going to visit family isn't the win you think it is you privileged bunch of zealots.' In central London, environmental protesters have caused criminal damage and blocked access to an office building on Old Queen Street in Westminster, the Metropolitan Police said. One person has been arrested for criminal damage, and the incident is ongoing. JSO said it is working with groups internationally to demand governments establish a fossil fuel treaty to end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030. The chaos began last Wednesday, when militant activists forced planes to remain grounded in Germany. They vowed to use 'all means necessary' to target millions of families planning well-earned getaways across the continent. The protesters can be seen wearing Just Stop Oil T-shirts with their hands in orange coloured boxes. An airport spokesman said: 'London Gatwick is open and operating normally today. There are a small number of protesters at the airport who have now been arrested and are being removed from the airport.' Earlier this month, Gatwick became the latest major airport to secure a High Court injunction in an attempt to stop would-be environmental activists trespassing on its land after receiving police intelligence over protest plans. Timothy Morshead KC, representing Gatwick at the hearing, said such action could cause 'severe disruption and financial loss' and 'significant delays for passengers'. The 'Oil Kills international uprising' has been causing havoc at airports around the world. As part of the disruptive campaign, 21 groups across 12 countries have taken action at 17 airports so far. Along with JSO, other groups include Letzte Generation Germany, Folk Mot Fossilmakta and Scientist Rebellion in Norway, XR Finland, Futuro Vegetal in Spain, Drop Fossil Subsidies and Act Now Liberate in Switzerland, Letzte Generation Austria, Extinction Rebellion and Scientists Rebellion in Sweden. The activists have been bashed on social media, with some branding it 'pathetic' The 'Oil Kills international uprising' has been causing havoc at airports around the world Shortly after 8am, activists from Just Stop Oil Sat and blocked the departures gate Earlier this morning, it was reported that 92 civil society organisations have warned Home Secretary Yvette Cooper against the 'steady erosion of the right to protest'. An open letter called for her to reverse the previous government's crackdown on peaceful protests - prompted in part by the jailing of five JSO members for a total of 21 years. It comes after 10 Just Stop Oil activists appeared in court charged with conspiring to disrupt Heathrow Airport on Wednesday. The activists were arrested as part of 'an intelligence-led policing operation at airports across Europe'. All 10 were arrested either at Heathrow Airport or in the vicinity and were charged this afternoon with conspiracy to interfere with key national infrastructure under Section 7 of the Public Order Act 2003. They appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court where eight were remanded in custody. While the disruption was minimal at Heathrow, eleven activists in Switzerland have blocked main roads around both Zurich and Geneva airport. Shocking scenes in Rome saw people throwing orange paint in Terminal 3, while the departure time of a plane at the airport was delayed due to activist disruption. Five eco activists in Spain accessed the taxiway at Barcelona airport but were intercepted before they could take action. Long queues gathered at the departures gate because of the obstruction JSO says it is working with groups internationally to demand a fossil fuel treaty The scene at Gatwick shortly after 8am this morning after JSO revealed a plot to disrupt holidaymakers at UK airports A German climate activist group that caused flight cancellations at Cologne-Bonn airport by gluing themselves to the runway said similar disruptions to push for an end to fossil fuels were planned over the next few weeks globally. 'That was just the beginning today. Over the next few weeks we will repeat this in Germany, Europe and globally,' a member of the Last Generation activist group said in a media briefing. Officers at Heathrow swooped in before the activists gained any unauthorised entry to the airport or the airfield, it is understood, saving passengers travelling on their summer holidays from facing disruption. One of those taking action this morning is Mel Carrington, 63, a mother and former environmental consultant from Dorset, who said: 'We've just had the hottest three days on earth in recorded history and possibly for hundreds of thousands of years. 'Innocent people around the world already face extreme weather and deadly heat and no one is prepared for the societal collapse that unchecked global heating will bring. 'I'm terrified of what it will mean for my family and friends when there are widespread crop failures, food shortages and economic meltdowns. It will mean the breakdown of law and order, the end of the NHS and the loss of everything we depend on.' Families laden with heavy bags tried to clamber past to catch their flights this monring The queue after Just Stop Oil blocked the departures gateway of Gatwick Airport JSO vowed to use 'all means necessary' to target millions of families planning well-earned getaways across the continent. Pictured are the scenes at Gatwick this morning Also taking action is Greg Sculthorpe a mathematician from Doncaster, who said: 'I can't bear to stand back and watch millions dying because the rich and powerful prefer to protect their wealth and status, than the lives of ordinary people.' 'Ordinary people have no choice but to fight to defend our families, as we pass every safe threshold that risks triggering irreversible feedback loops, leading us towards a hothouse earth where millions are displaced. 'We need an emergency fossil fuel treaty to phase down fossil fuels by 2030.' Today's chaos follows activists jailed for disrupting thousands of hardworking people by scaling the M25 gantry speaking of the 'injustice of what has been done to us'. In a joint statement, Cressida Gethin, 22, and Lucia Whittaker De Abreu, 35, bemoaned their loss of freedom and explained how they now join hundreds of women who have been 'abjectly failed' by society. Speaking from her jail cell, Cressida said her fellow inmates understood the 'injustice' of what has been done, perhaps more so than 'most people on the street'. An activist from Just Stop Oil occupied a gantry over the M25 near Godstone in 2022 The climate activists, who were sentenced to four years for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance on July 18, are currently being held at HMP Bronzefield Police watch as traffic is held back as an activist from Just Stop Oil occupies a gantry over the M25 near Godstone in Surrey Cressida on the M25 motorway gantry in July 2022 The stunt disrupted London's M25 motorway for four days in 2022, causing 50,000 hours of delays for over 700,000 vehicles, including those attending funerals and hospital appointments. The pair believe their sentences reflect a 'brokenness' in the 'way the country functions'. The climate activists, who were sentenced to four years for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance on July 18, are currently being held at HMP Bronzefield. The Cambridge University student from leafy Herford said: 'Nowhere is the violence of the system more obvious, nowhere is it clearer how our profit-driven economy stamps on anyone and anything that doesn't conform. 'People here have to fight to survive, the resilience and resourcefulness is inspiring. 'If Judge Hehir believes that sending non-violent action-takers to prison will break us and extinguish the resistance, he will be disappointed.' Social media users labelled the joint statement published on the Just Stop Oil 'X' page as 'out of touch' and 'entitled'. One user said: 'The entitlement of these people is unbelievable. No respect for others, no remorse, no context or understanding of the bigger economic picture. Truly outstanding how much these people live in their bubble of make-believe.' Another added: 'Er, they and the other people are in prison because they broke the law. There seems to be an utter failure in both education & the parents to get the message home that if you choose (and boy oh boy did they choose) to break the law then you are punished.' Cressida's mother Cathy, from Herefordshire, has spoken outside court after her daughter received her four-year sentence for her part in the stunt. 'My daughter is Cressida Gethin. At the age of 22 she was the youngest defendant and she has just been sentenced today to four years in prison. This means she will not be present at her brother's wedding next summer,' she said. Cressida Gethin's mother Cathy (pictured) spoke outside court after her daughter received a sentence of four years for her part in the JSO M25 stunt Police watch as traffic is held back as an activist from Just Stop Oil occupies a gantry over the M25 near Godstone in Surrey The Gethin family's idyllic country house in Hereford, Herefordshire. Cressida grew up in the countryside, according to her mother Cathy (third left) is a bell-ringer at their local church in Herefordshire From left to right: Lucia Whittaker De Abreu, Cressida Gethin, Louise Lancaster, Daniel Shaw and Roger Hallam. Hallam was sentenced to five years' imprisonment while the remaining four defendants were each handed four years' imprisonment Photographs show the Gethin family's idyllic country house in Hereford, Herefordshire, which boasts a large driveway and grand pillars at the front entrance. Cathy is a bell-ringer at the family's local church, while Cressida's father Nick has been a cellist with the London Symphony Orchestra for many years. Cathy added: 'I want to bring [Cressida] to life for those of you who were not present in the courtroom. 'Cressida grew up in the countryside, and is one of those nature loving defendants that you heard about. 'She is an extremely talented musician. She worked hard growing up. She achieved highly. She has ambitions, dreams and hopes, like all young people. She had just finished her first year at university.' Defending her daughter's actions outside court, Cathy said: 'Cressida also grew up completely understanding right and wrong. She has always been unable to stand by when she sees injustice. 'She has the courage of a lion and a moral compass that compels her to step forward when she sees wrong. 'Like many of the defendants Cressida tried polite routes to protest and to persuade to affect change. But when she heard the science and saw that no one was paying attention, she felt she had no option.' Jeremy Bamber has made a fresh plea of innocence, insisting he 'didn't murder my family' after a bombshell investigation into the White House Farm murders released today claimed police lied about evidence and altered witness statements. The magazine probe also alleged that officers withheld and concealed evidence and tampered with a crime scene after the murders at the farm near Maldon in Essex. The claims raise serious questions about Bamber's conviction and provide a boost to his 39-year campaign to prove he is innocent over the events of August 7, 1985. Bamber - whose case was featured in the 2020 ITV crime drama 'White House Farm' - is serving a whole-life tariff for killing his adoptive parents Nevill and June Bamber, both 61, his adoptive sister Sheila Caffell, 28, and her twins Daniel and Nicholas, six. Bamber has always said he is innocent and that Sheila, a paranoid schizophrenic, carried out the murders before shooting herself at the family's farm. He is the only whole-life prisoner in the British prison system to maintain his innocence. Jeremy Bamber is the only whole-life prisoner in the UK jail system to maintain his innocence Jeremy Bamber was convicted of murdering his adoptive sister Sheila Caffell, 28, and her six-year-old twins Daniel and Nicholas (all pictured) Bamber was also convicted of murdering his adoptive parents Nevill and June Bamber, both 61 Now a 17,000-word investigation by The New Yorker has highlighted more than a dozen apparent discrepancies in the prosecution's case - making the claims that: Timeline of the White House Farm murders August 1985: Nevill and June Bamber, Sheila Caffell and her twin sons Daniel and Nicholas are all found dead in Essex. Police initially believe it's a murder suicide, with Sheila implicated September 1985: Jeremy Bamber is arrested and charged with murders October 1986: Bamber is convicted of five murders at Chelmsford Crown Court and given five life sentences March 1989: Bamber appeals over claims the judge unfairly summed up the case, but loses December 1994: Minimum 25-year sentence extended to whole-life tariff. December 2002: Bamber loses appeal against convictions May 2004: Bamber is taken to hospital after being attacked in prison May 2008: Bamber loses appeal against whole-life term February 2011: Criminal Cases Review Commission rejects bid for new appeal with fresh evidence January 2012: Bamber loses appeal against whole-life prison tariff at the European Court of Human Rights October 2020: Loses bid to bring a legal challenge over refusal by the Prison Service to downgrade him from maximum security. 2021: Bamber's team launch new bid to CCRC for an appeal. This is still being considered Advertisement The lead crime scene officer picked up a Bible next to Sheila's body before putting it back before the photos were taken to 're-create what we just screwed up'; Sheila had been on a three-day shooting trip despite the judge telling the trial jury that there was 'no evidence at all' that she 'was used to loading and firing guns'; The botched handling of a gun silencer saw crucial evidence lost and a chance of contamination in the weeks between its discovery and forensic tests; The jury could have been misled with evidence conflated from two silencers - one from Bamber's collection and another recovered at the farm which was identical; Mystery over a 999 call after an officer involved in the case claimed he had no knowledge of a statement attributed to him regarding the call in a review in 2002; Sheila's ex-husband Colin Caffell said in a handwritten statement that Bamber was sympathetic because ' I'd had a rough deal all along, in respect of Sheila's illness' - but when typed out this was changed to say Bamber felt ' he'd ' been mistreated; had a rough deal all along, in respect of Sheila's illness' - but when typed out this was changed to say Bamber felt ' ' been mistreated; Only 10 per cent of the millions of pages of evidence held by police was disclosed before the trial - with some of the other sections now part of a new appeal attempt launched in 2021. Bamber also spoke to the magazine about his fear of dying in prison, saying: 'I hope I get out, and maybe I can have a little life outside. But sometimes I don't think that I ever will. They'll just find ways to obstruct. 'That doesn't change my innocence. Just because you kept me in jail for 40 years, it doesn't make me guilty.' Bamber, now 63, also said: 'I've been awake in jail a billion seconds. I didn't murder my family. I promise you.' The publication tracked down officers who were present in the aftermath of the murders and who appear to have substantiated Bamber's claim that police tampered with the crime scene to effectively frame him. The investigation also raises questions about the beleaguered Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which Bamber's legal team says has failed to act on submissions that would exonerate him. The Bamber farmhouse, White House Farm, at Tolleshunt D'Arcy near Maldon in Essex The report states this since Bamber's latest application was filed in 2021, the CCRC has only reviewed three of the nine ground for appeal - meaning that at this pace, it could be another six years until this review is completed. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has called for the resignation of Helen Pitcher, chairman of the CCRC, over the case of Andrew Malkinson, who spent 17 years in jail for a rape he did not commit. An investigation into the CCRC's role by Chris Henley KC found it had missed several opportunities to refer the case to appeal. Malkinson, who was released only as a result of forensic tests by campaigners, said on proving his innocence: 'I'm not the only one.' The New Yorker, which has also raised questions about the safety of nurse Lucy Letby's conviction for murdering seven babies, has been investigating the Bamber case since last October. It has focused on claims that Essex Police lied about evidence, altered witness statements, passed evidence to a third party, withheld and concealed evidence and tampered with a crime scene. Mark Addy, Freddie Fox and Stephen Graham starred in the 2020 ITV drama White House Farm Bamber says his sister Sheila, a diagnosed paranoid schizophrenic, feared having her children taken into care, suffered a psychotic episode and carried out the murders before turning the gun on herself. The police argued that Bamber must have carried out the murders because the gun had been fitted with a silencer, which made it too long for her to be physically able to shoot herself, but ballistics experts have subsequently cast doubt on whether the rifle was fitted with a silencer. Police also said if she had gone on a rampage her feet would have been covered in blood and that this was not the case. But a picture of her feet obtained by Bamber's lawyers shows bloodstains. Police had initially worked on the theory that Sheila, a model known as Bambi, had been responsible. They put Bamber at the centre of the probe after his girlfriend Julie Mugford - whom he had two-timed - claimed he had confessed to her his plans to hire a hitman to kill the family. The hitman she named had a cast-iron alibi and was released. Bamber's lawyers also unearthed a police phone log of a call on the night of the killings from Nevill. Jeremy Bamber, who has always said he is innocent, in a police van during his trial in 1986 The log, entitled 'daughter gone berserk', noted Mr Bamber had said his daughter had stolen one of his guns and gone 'berserk'. A bloodstained Bible, found by Sheila's side and open at pages containing Psalms 51-55 - on the struggle between good and evil - was never forensically examined or produced at trial, despite requests from Bamber's solicitor. Among the claims examined by the New Yorker was evidence of police interfering with the crime scene when the case went to appeal. The crime scene photographs are said to have shown 'Sheila lying with her head at an awkward angle against a bedside table, the Bible open against her right shoulder'. The prosecution had argued Bamber put it there, and the Court of Appeal said in 2002 that it appeared to have been shut and then 'reopened by someone to lie beside the body', based on smudged bloodstains on its pages. Jeremy Bamber at the Court of Appeal in October 2002 to appeal against his conviction But Detective Sergeant Neil Davidson, the deputy of the lead crime scene officer Detective Inspector Ron Cook, claimed Cook had 'lifted the Bible up and had a look at it'. Cook then allegedly stood 'fumbling' with the Bible, before asking which page it had been on, and putting it back by Sheila's body before the crime scene photos were taken to 're-create what we just screwed up', Davidson said. The investigation also looked into evidence relating to Sheila handling guns, after the judge told the jury trial there was 'no evidence at all' that she 'was used to loading and firing guns.' However, Sheila had previously been on a three-day shooting trip and fired a gun, as well as going on at least one shooting party, according to the magazine. It also cited a firearms expert who had produced reports for Bamber's lawyers, saying there was no doubt Sheila could have fired the murder weapon. The magazine also reported on the 'chaotic handling of the silencer, and the risk of contamination in the weeks between its discovery and the forensic tests'. Jeremy Bamber is pictured in 2002 while appealing against his convictions in the 1980s It said there were 'questions about its provenance' and it had not been found by several police officers before it was apparently discovered by Bamber's relatives. Allegations were also investigated surrounding claims there were two silencers and whether evidence was conflated from separate devices. This has always been denied by police and prosecutors, but Bamber's team claim to have records showing silencers with two different reference numbers were examined by the forensics team. One further point were the apparent issues relating to a 999 call on the night of the murders. Police monitored an open line after the phone in the White House Farm kitchen was left off the hook, which was transferred to the force from a phone company operator. But Scotland Yard records referred to a '999 call made from White House Farm,' suggesting someone picked up the phone and called while Bamber was outside with police. Jeremy Bamber is pictured in 1986 following the White House Farm shootings in August 1985 A statement attributed to Essex Police officer Nicholas Milbank in the 2002 Scotland Yard review did not mention anyone calling 999 and instead said he was asked to monitor the open line. The New Yorker tracked down Milbank, still working for the force, and he said that 'from what I can remember, someone phoned 999,' from 'inside the farmhouse'. He said he recalled hearing what could have been muffled speech and this 'obviously' suggested someone was alive in the house. But Milbank had no recollection of the statement attributed to him and said no one had spoken to him about it since the 1980s until now. On Saturday, speaking ahead of the magazine's investigation being published, Bamber said: 'If restaging of the crime scene is a major new point in The New Yorker story, that will enable us to go directly back to the Court of Appeal, which I hope will be within a few days of us having the fresh evidence in our hands. Jeremy Bamber is escorted by a police officer in handcuffs after the shootings in 1985 'The Court of Appeal have already said restaging the crime scene would be a moral sin, so we'll be straight back to the Court of Appeal ASAP, asking for bail pending a full appeal.' A spokesman for Bamber's campaign said the New Yorker investigation highlighted a key issue raised in the report on CCRC failings in the Malkinson case - 'a refusal to carry out any investigations into submissions that are presented to them'. They added: 'The CCRC have had Jeremy Bamber's latest submissions since March 2021 and they have not investigated any of the key exculpatory issues they contain, which demonstrate Jeremy Bamber's innocence.' The CCRC said it 'makes impartial, evidence-based decisions'. A CCRC spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Mr Bamber has made three applications to the CCRC. The first application led to Mr Bamber's case being sent to the Court of Appeal in 2001, and his conviction was upheld. 'The second application to the CCRC did not result in a referral. A third application is under review. We are investigating whether there are sufficient grounds for a fresh appeal. 'The approach taken to reviewing the thousands of pages submitted was agreed with the applicant's representatives and we have been prioritising the most complex issues first - these naturally take the longest time to review. 'It would be inappropriate to comment any further while this review is underway.' Essex Police have long cited Bamber's failed appeals when asked about the safety of the conviction. A spokeswoman told MailOnline today: 'In August 1985 the lives of five people, including two children, were needlessly, tragically and callously cut short when they were murdered in their own home by Jeremy Bamber. 'In the years that followed this case has been the subject of several appeals and reviews by the Court of Appeal and the Criminal Cases Review Commission all of these processes have never found anything other than Bamber is the person responsible for killing his adoptive parents Nevill and June, sister Sheila Caffell and her two sons Nicholas and Daniel. 'Essex Police have continued to comply will all legal requirements in this case and will continue to assist the CCRC as required.' Scotland Yard declined to comment to MailOnline. Kemi Badenoch has become the sixth declared Tory leader contender pledging to 'renew capitalism'. The former Cabinet minister - widely regarded as the favourite to replace Rishi Sunak - has joined Priti Patel, Robert Jenrick, James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat and Mel Stride in going public with a bid. The final line-up is due to be confirmed when nominations close this afternoon, firing the starting gun on a contest that will culminate in November. However, Suella Braverman has announced that she will not be running for the party's top job, admitting not enough MPs agree with her call for a shift to the Right. Tensions are also already rising, with Ms Badenoch accusing other camps of 'dirty tricks' to try and derail her pitch. Kemi Badenoch said capitalism has become a 'dirty word' in recent years and reclaiming it is crucial if the Tories are to bounce back Ex-immigration minister Robert Jenrick (left) and former work and pensions secretary Mel Stride (right) are also bidding for the Tory crown Priti Patel, the former home secretary, has entered the leadership contest James Cleverly (left) and ex-security minister Tom Tugendhat (right) have already joined the contest Writing in the Times, Ms Badenoch said capitalism had become a 'dirty word' in recent years and the Tories must reclaim it. She said the party needed to 'start from first principles' and pledged to start speaking 'the truth again' on everything from controlling immigration to reforming public services. 'If I have the privilege to serve, we will speak the truth again,' she wrote. 'That is why today my campaign is launching with an explicit focus on renewing our party for 2030 - the first full year we can be back in Government and the first year of a new decade. 'We will renew by starting from first principles: we can't control immigration until we re-confirm our belief in the nation state and the sovereign duty it has, above all else, to serve its own citizens. 'Our public services will never fully recover from the pandemic until we remember that government should do some things well, not everything badly. 'At the foundation of our renewal, and indeed the reassembly of the conservative family, is a confident set of principles about how our economy should work, and for whom it should work. 'The wealth of our nation is built upon our historic ability to capture the ingenuity and industry of our people, and the willingness of many to trade risk for reward. 'It's become a dirty word, but our renewal must also mean a renewal for capitalism.' However, her campaign is expected to be rocked by claims of 'bullying' behaviour by her and alleged impropriety committed by one of her aides. The Guardian is said to have conducted the potentially damning investigation, expected to be published in the coming weeks. Ms Badenoch's team say the Guardian investigation is the product of a disgruntled former special adviser she dismissed. Her team has also claimed that dirty tricks are at play in the leadership contest after a 'dirty dossier' of online comments she made nearly 20 years ago was published. Ms Badenoch has said it was 'both amusing/alarming the extraordinary lengths people will go to to play dirty tricks' and said the public were put off politics by 'petty' and 'puerile' methods. Dame Priti has promised to put 'unity before personal vendetta'. Standing on a platform of 'unite to win', she urged colleagues not to descend into 'a soap opera of finger-pointing and self-indulgence' in the wake of the landslide General Election defeat. Some MPs expect Mr Tugendhat to top the ballot of MPs in the Autumn, with the surviving rump of the parliamentary party dominated by the One Nation group. But the conventional view is that the membership is further to the right. Former home secretary Suella Braverman had been tipped to run, but last night dramatically withdrew. There had been rumours Ms Braverman was struggling to secure the 10 nominations needed by 2.30pm, although she insisted she had the numbers. 'Although I'm grateful to the 10 MPs who wanted to nominate me for the leadership, getting on to the ballot is not enough,' she wrote in the Telegraph. 'There is, for good or for ill, no point in someone like me running to lead the Tory Party when most of the MPs disagree with my diagnosis and prescription,' she said. She said the party's disastrous election result was down to failures on migration, taxes and 'transgender ideology'. She added: 'I've been branded mad, bad and dangerous enough to see that the Tory Party does not want to hear this. And so I will bow out here.' All contenders need a proposer, seconder and eight other backers to stand. After the summer recess MPs will narrow the field down to four who will make their case at the Tories' annual party conference from September 29 to October 2. The final two will be put to a vote of party members in an online ballot that will close on October 31, with the result on November 2. The timelines mean that Mr Sunak is likely to find himself responding to Labour's first Budget - a prospect that has raised alarm after he was accused of 'phonining it in' at Keir Starmer's maiden PMQs. At least one person is dead and several others were wounded after gunmen, who a witness described as all being under the age of 21, opened fire at a barbecue in a park in Rochester, New York, on Sunday. Rochester police said they responded to Maplewood Park around 6:20 p.m. to a large gathering with shots fired and found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. The city around 340 miles northwest of Manhattan. A 20-year-old man was killed, another person, a woman, suffered a life threatening injury and five people were hospitalized with minor injuries, Capt. Greg Bello said. The identity of the person who was killed has not been revealed. 'At this point we don't know how many people were shooting,' Bello said. 'We are trying to work our way through as many witnesses as we can.' A video taken by an attendee shows dozens of people enjoying the good weather before numerous popping sounds are heard, forcing everyone to duck for cover. At one point a voice can be heard repeatedly saying: 'Keep pressure on it.' The video begins by showing a large group of people enjoying the summer sun at a barbecue in the city of Rochester The scene quickly turns to panic as multiple pops are heard, at one point a voice can be heard saying: 'Keep pressure on it!' In an interview with WHEC, Rochester Police Chief David Smith said that investigators are still trying to establish if the gunmen were originally part of the group or were outsiders. 'Everyone was having a good time. There was no reason to be alarmed or think that anything was going to happen. It was a bunch of people having a picnic in the park,' Smith told the station. No suspects were in custody, police said while confirming that they are looking for multiple gunmen. A woman who lives close to the park told WHEC that she thought the noises she heard were firecrackers until she saw people running from the scene. 'I thought it was firecrackers but then when I saw people running I knew it was gunshots. As I was coming towards the front of my house, there was a young lady running towards me gasping for air, asking me to help her, help her, help her. So I lifted my trunk up, got her a bottle of water, and sat her down,' Carla Owens Martin said. Another neighbor described the scene as being 'pure terror.' 'Looking out the window, this whole park, which was full of people was then running for their lives. There were people hiding behind cars, jumping my fence, crying. It was pure terror,' a resident told Rochester First. Another spoke of a scene involving 'kids with guns drawn.' Local police looking over the scene of the shooting, a giant smoker can be seen A neighbor telling a member of the media that she thought she heard firecrackers until she saw people running for their lives Rochester is located around 350 miles northwest of New York City 'We looked out the front window and there were two kids here on our front porch with guns drawn, and then it was kind of like, "Now what?"' resident Shelley Strong said. Rochester's Democratic Mayor Malik Evans, who visited the scene, said: 'This a tragedy what happened today.' 'The biggest tip we need is from the individuals who pulled out the guns and started shooting,' the mayor added. 'That's what we need. I guarantee that with a large number of people here enjoying the summer weather this Sunday, someone here saw something. There are cameras everywhere. We just need a tip; nothing is too small.' The Black Republican Club of Rochester also released a statement on the shooting. 'Don't blame race, gun control, gender, or Trump for this tragic mass shooting in Rochester, NY. It's time to move past the usual scapegoats and address the real issues head-on.' 'We need genuine solutions to the escalating crime in our city, not just more pandering to the black community with claims that it's all due to Jim Crow and Trump's policies. Let's have an honest conversation about the root causes and how we can effectively tackle them,' the statement read in part. Anyone with footage or information should call 311, 911, email MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov, call the Major Crimes Unit at 428-7157, CrimeStoppers at 423-9300. A teenage girl has been kidnapped, tied up and killed while she was on her way to a pyjama party in Sweden. Emilia Sjoberg, 14, was found dead in the town of Landskrona, in southern Sweden, last week. She was tied up with silver tape and had several cuts and bruises on her body, local media reports. Two girls, both aged 15, have reportedly been arrested in connection to Emilia's kidnapping and murder. Police say they were friends with Emilia and invited her to a pyjama party before luring her to an industrial estate near the local train station where they killed her. Chief investigator, Kenth Pehrsson, said that Emilia's body showed signs of 'severe violence', but did not reveal her cause of death. Emilia Sjoberg (pictured), 14, was found dead in the town of Landskrona, in southern Sweden, last week Emilia (pictured above in 2023) was tied up with silver tape and had several cuts and bruises on her body, local media reports Two girls, both aged 15, have reportedly been arrested in connection to Emilia's (pictured) kidnapping and murder Police say they were friends with Emilia and invited her to a pyjama party before luring her to an industrial estate near the local train station (crime scene pictured above) where they killed her Her mother regularly shared footage of her daughter on social media, like above to Emilia's 13th birthday last year 'She was found with such injuries and under such circumstances that we suspect that her life was taken and that she was deprived of her freedom before that,' prosecutor Tomas Olvmyr added. Emilia is believed to have been killed sometime between July 21 and July 22, according to documents from the local court, and her body was found shortly after midnight on Tuesday, July 23. The first girl, 15, was arrested in connection to Emilia's kidnapping and murder on Wednesday, before the second 15-year-old teenager was taken into custody a day later. One of the girls has reportedly confessed to being involved in the crime. '[She] also provided information about the background to why it has turned out the way it has,' according to the prosecutor. The girl's solicitor, Maria Stahl Lindgren, confirmed to local media that her client had spoken to police and the prosecutor added that both girls had made 'certain concessions' to investigators. 'It is clear that these three know each other. Both suspects know each other and both know the plaintiff,' the prosecutor said. The motive for the brutal murder was a fight over an insult, according to information obtained by Swedish newspaper Expressen - with Emilia's mother, Anna Sjoberg, claiming to outlet Aftonbladet that her daughter was killed out of jealousy over a boy. One of the suspects reportedly told police that there had been no plans to kill Emilia and that a fight got 'out of hand'. But Expressen reports that the girls had prepared for the encounter by stealing silver tape and a knife from various stores. The 15-year-old - who was arrested first over the murder - was reportedly staying at the same home for teenagers Emilia was living in until recently. She remains in custody while the other girl has been taken into care by social services. The girls even filmed part of the attack, which saw her brutally beating Emilia, according to Expressen. On Thursday the local police and coastguard searched the harbour next to the industrial estate, but did not say what they were looking for. Two days prior a bag containing Emilia's bank cards and other belongings were found in the water. The motive for the brutal murder was a fight over an insult, according to information obtained by Swedish newspaper Expressen - with Emilia's mother, Anna Sjoberg (pictured right with Emilia left), claiming to outlet Aftonbladet that her daughter was killed out of jealousy On Thursday the local police and coastguard searched the harbour next to the industrial estate (pictured), but did not say what they were looking for Later that day, chief investigator Pehrsson said that police had found a knife near the crime scene, which he did not rule out as the murder weapon. He added that a second knife has also been seized. Emilia's mother, Anna Sjoberg, 33, told local media that the family is struggling to come to terms with her daughter's death: 'I cannot accept that she is dead. We are in shock. Every time it rings I double check if it's her. I am very much in denial. 'We haven't accepted it yet, we won't accept it until we see her.' Police told the family that they have identified Emilia, although results from a DNA test as well as comparing dental records are still outstanding, according to her mother. Ms Sjoberg, who had Emilia when she was 19, said that the family hasn't been allowed to see Emilia's body and hopes they will be able to this week. 'When the police came together with a priest and told me they had bad news, I replied that they can't tell me because both my father and mother are already dead,' devastated Ms Sjoberg said. She added that since she was informed of her daughter's death early last week, she has been in disbelief: 'I don't understand why anyone would want to hurt her.' Emilia's mother, Anna Sjoberg (pictured), 33, told local media that the family is struggling to come to terms with her daughter's death: 'I cannot accept that she is dead. We are in shock. Every time it rings I double check if it's her. I am very much in denial' A picture from Emilia's childhood shows her carefully petting a cat while wearing a pink dress 'My daughter was an angel who always stood up for everyone. Maybe this world wasn't ready for her,' Ms Sjoberg (pictured) said 'My daughter was an angel who always stood up for everyone. Maybe this world wasn't ready for her,' she told Swedish broadcaster TV4 Nyheterna. Ms Sjoberg said her daughter had been stressed about the pyjama party and argued with her, before Emilia sent her a text message while on the train. 'Sorry mum for behaving badly because I was stressed. I love you and you are my life,' Emilia's last message to her mother read. The two had just recently started living together again after Emilia was placed in a home aged 5. 'We were going to start over and planned what our home would look like. I had just finished building a dressing table for her and she had had to choose other furniture. She was so happy,' her mother told TV4. Ms Sjoberg said that Emilia's new furniture will arrive in a few days. 'I will set it up anyway. And close the door to her room. I want it to stay, I don't want to forget her,' she said. A memorial service for Emilia is planned for today. A massive swarm of dragonflies descended on a Rhode Island beach forcing terrified beachgoers to take cover as their day in the sun became something reminiscent of biblical plague. Beachgoers were heard screaming as a cloud of insects swarmed Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly on Saturday afternoon. Video shows how a swarm of dragonflies buzzed across the beach and past the dozens of scared visitors, whipping over towels, through umbrellas and past beachgoers' bodies. Children were heard screaming as they swatted away at the bugs with shovels and sand toes. Some sunbathers packed up their things and left, while others hunkered down and took shelter in their car. Witnesses recalled how other visitors seemingly embraced the chaotic 'invasion'. They stood and watched as the bugs flew past, with some even 'trying to catch them'. A massive swarm of dragonflies descended on Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island on Saturday afternoon Helene Dombrowski, who filmed the eery incident, estimates that 'millions' of insects 'flying pretty fast' swarmed the beach around 12pm Helene Dombrowski, who filmed the eery incident, estimates there were 'hundreds' of dragonflies on the beach when she arrived Saturday around 9.30am. By noon, she claims that 'millions' of insects 'flying pretty fast' had swarmed the beach, located roughly 50 miles from the capital city of Providence. 'Holy c**p. Look at this, oh my God,' Dombrowski, 52, said as she captured footage of the 'beautiful' incident. 'Look at the swarm over here. I've never seen anything like this in my life.' She laughed as the insects flew over her and her companions. Although Dombrowski was somewhat wowed by the phenomenon, she recalled how other beachgoers seemed quite afraid. 'Some people were screaming while others were trying to catch them,' she told Storyful. Some sunbathers packed up their things and left as the swarm flew in, while others hunkered down and watched the phenomenon unfold A beachgoer points at a swarm of dragonflies as it invades the beach on Saturday afternoon Some beachgoers were heard screaming as a cloud of insects swarmed Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly on Saturday, while others laughed at the scene Richard Sontag, who was among the thousands of beachgoers subjected to the swarm, branded the incident an 'invasion.' Stephanie Martin told WCVB: 'I was enjoying a nice day at Misquamicut State Beach until we endured a dragonfly apocalypse.' Another witness claimed the sight was 'amazing' and says he was 'agog with the sheer number of them'. 'One of those spectacles of nature that you very rarely get to see so I was all happy,' Mark Stickney, 63, told The Boston Globe. Dombrowski, who claims the massive swarm only lasted about five minutes, added: 'I thought it was beautiful. I was very lucky to experience it.' 'I've never seen anything like that. Maybe a few dozen at a time of dragonflies, but never in that amount.' A beachgoer is seen filming as 'millions' of dragonflies swarm the beach Dragonfly swarms tend to occur in the summer months when the insects are breeding or after the smaller insects they feed on are kicked into the air by human or weather disturbances, WBUR reported. Individual swarms can include billions of dragonflies and have, in some instances, been so large that they are detected by radar systems. Dragonflies feed on mosquitos and various flies, but can also prey on small mammals like hummingbirds. Although a massive swarm can appear scary, experts say dragonflies pose no threat to humans. A gang of Nigerian 'sextortion' scammers responsible for a number of teenage suicides is still active and advertising its services on TikTok. The criminals pretend to be women on fake social media profiles to trick men or boys into sharing explicit images or videos with them. The gang then blackmails their victims by threatening to share the images with friends and family unless they send money or cryptocurrency. At least three British children and more than 20 in the US have taken their own lives after being blackmailed by evil gangs. The National Crime Agency - Britain's FBI - has described 'sextortion' as a 'callous crime' that destroys lives and issued an unprecedented nationwide alert to schools and parents. The Yahoo Boys have even started using AI to create so-called deepfakes to trick even the most alert internet users Samuel Ogoshi, 22, Samson Ogoshi, 20 and Ezekiel Ejehem Robert, 19, were extradited to the US from Nigeria over after their alleged involvement in the suicide of an American teenager, Jordan DeMay Dinal De Alwis, 16, (pictured) had just started sixth form when he killed himself after being blackmailed on social media over nude photographs Despite concerns raised by politicians and law enforcement a Nigerian gang identified as the main culprits - known as the Yahoo Boys - is still active on TikTok. The Yahoo Boys are a nebulous group of gangs and nefarious individuals largely based out of Nigeria. Videos show members of the gang posing in front of luxury cars or decked out in designer clothes, flashing piles of money. The nickname comes from the email service Yahoo, which became popular in Nigeria in the 2000s, and was used alongside other email providers in their scams at that time. TikTok videos show Yahoo Boys scammers advising others on how to trap victims and showing off houses - called 'hustle kingdoms' - they've bought using their ill-gotten gains. The algorithm also helps other would-be scammers find scamming guides and users are pushed videos such as 'how to collect credit card from client' and 'yahoo boys dating formats'. According to research from the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI), which works to identify and forecast emerging cyber threats, the Yahoo Boys are increasingly targeting teenagers from Western English-speaking countries via social media platforms. They are said to send thousands of British, American and Canadian youngsters friend requests or messages from fake or hacked female accounts in the hope that a few dozen might respond. The Yahoo Boys have even started using AI to create so-called deepfakes to trick even the most alert internet users. TikTok videos show Yahoo Boys scammers advising others on how to trap victims and showing off houses, expensive cars and cash Celebrating sextortion crimes is an established part of the internet subculture in Nigeria, according to the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) Members of the Yahoo Boys gang pose beside their luxury cars Gang members in an 'office' in Nigeria from where they lure victims from around the world Equipment seized from members of the Yahoo Boys gang An NCRI report stated: Specifically, nearly all financial sextortion attacks on minors involve the screenshotting of the victims Instagram followers/following lists and using those lists as leverage, threatening to send the victims intimate photos to all these accounts. There are many videos posted online of people who are purported to have made vast sums of money from such scams. They flaunt their ill-gotten gains and pass on tips to other would-be crooks. The NCRI has said that celebrating sextortion crimes is an established part of the internet subculture in Nigeria. The cyber-criminals use platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat to lure their victims and police, investigators and the families of victims have been calling on the technology companies to combat the scammers. Dinal De Alwis, 16, a schoolboy from Sutton, south London, took his own life in October 2022 after receiving Snapchat messages threatening to send two nude photographs to all of his followers if he did not send money. Last December Murray Dowey, 16, from Dunblane, Perthshire, took his life hours after being targeted in a sextortion plot on Instagram. Police Scotland believe those responsible were based in Nigeria. His family said last month that Meta was not doing 'nearly enough' to protect children online. Murray's grieving mother Ros Dowey issued a desperate plea to other young victims of the scams. 'Please don't do what Murray did. Nothing is worth taking your own life. Nothing,' she said. 'No matter how terrified and awful you're feeling at the moment, that will pass and this can be fixed.' Murray Dowey, 16, (pictured) took his own life hours after being targeted in a sextortion blackmail plot with potential links to Nigeria Mark and Ros Dowey said there 'world has been shattered' since losing their son Murray Dinal had been top of Whitgift School in Croydon in English and economics after achieving straight A*s in his GCSEs Dinal (pictured) killed himself after being blackmailed by a stranger suspected to be in Nigeria claiming to have nude pictures of him The National Police Chiefs Council has said the tech firms also needed to identify and remove blackmail and grooming messages and verify the ages of children using social media platforms. In January, Meta started restricting adults from contacting users under 16 who don't follow them on its apps and expanded parental controls. The NCRI has been pushing for the company to hide friend lists of teenagers by default to make them less vulnerable to blackmail. In April, the NCA issued an unprecedented alert to teachers and parents about pupils being targeted in 'sextortion' scams. It warned all 570,000 primary and secondary teachers across Britain that children as young as five are at risk. It was the first time the NCA has issued a national alert to schools and experts say it is urgently needed to stem a 'sextortion epidemic'. The NSPCC has also called on Ofcom to take stronger action under the Online Safety Act. 'It is crucial that Ofcom uses its powers to compel companies to identify suspicious behaviour and profiles which are targeting children so there can be no excuse for failing to protect them from sextortion, or any other form of abuse,' Rani Govender, online safety policy manager at the NSPCC, told The Times, which first reported the story. Last week Meta removed 63,000 Instagram accounts, 5,700 groups, 200 pages, and 1,300 accounts on Facebook linked to the Yahoo Boys, it said. Brandon Guffey, a member of the South Carolina house of representatives, who lost his son Gavin, 17, to sextortion in 2022 said Meta's move was 'a step, but a small one'. He wrote on Facebook: 'Don't let Meta make you feel they are doing anything to protect kids online. If they wanted it stopped they could immediately by blocking any and all accounts with CSAM (child sexual abuse material).' He also said that an account linked to a person who targeted his son sent him a sickening message that said: 'Did I tell you your son begged for his life?' Experts have welcomed Meta's move but said that TikTok must do more to clean up its platform. Alex Goldenberg, the director of intelligence at NCRI, said TikTok was an 'enormous problem' in this area and called on it to take 'more aggressive actions' to combat sextortion scammers. He told The Times: '[TikTok] is a medium where Yahoo Boys share best practices. They glorify their activities. They celebrate the wealth that they've generated as a byproduct of targeting victims that they refer to as "clients".' Figures lay bare the staggering scale of the problem. In 2015, 428 sextortion cases were reported to police, most involving adults. But the latest figures for online blackmail show 13,322 cases in England and Wales in the year to September 2022. That equates to 36 victims a day. More than half of cases were closed with no suspect identified because the perpetrators are often overseas. Investigators say the crimes reported to police are the tip of the iceberg and they believe gangs are making millions of pounds targeting British children. The Crime Survey for England and Wales found almost one in ten children aged 13 to 15 received a sexual message online in the past year and two thirds of those involved photos. A TikTok spokesman said: 'We design TikTok to be inhospitable for those intent on causing harm to teens and we do not tolerate any content or behaviour promoting sextortion.' For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123, visit a branch or go to www.samaritans.org A letter intended for a top French minister contained traces of the plague, according to reports. The suspicious letter was addressed to the town hall of Roubaix, in the north of France outside Lille, for the attention of the Minister of the Interior Gerald Darmanin. It was unstamped and had undisclosed 'inscriptions' on its back, rousing suspicions among workers at a sorting centre in Longiv, in the Cote-d'Or region. When they opened it they discovered that it was filled with a black powder and a letter containing racist insults, French media reports. Preliminary tests revealed the powder contained a 'slight positivity for the plague' - the disease that killed millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages. The suspicious letter was addressed to the town hall of Roubaix for the attention of the Minister of the Interior Gerald Darmanin (pictured last week) The substance has been sent to the Pasteur Institute, which is conducting new analyses to confirm the results. The Cote-d'Or prefecture stressed that the result 'could be a false positive.' The Pasteur Institute is expected to report its conclusions at the end of the day on Monday. It remains unclear who is behind the offensive letter and prosecutors have launched an investigation. The investigation has been opened for 'defamation and insults', but that may change depending on test results. Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, and is most commonly transmitted to humans by flea bites or handling infected animals. There are around 1,0003,000 cases per year around the world, with the most endemic countries being the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, and Peru, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Police are yet to name a suspect or possible motive and Darmanin has not spoken publicly about the reports. The Interior Minister spoke on France 2 TV this morning about recent attacks on rail infrastructure just hours before the Olympics opening ceremony on Friday. France's President Emmanuel Macron (C) gives a speech next to Darmanin (R) as they meet French police officers during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Darmanin said was 'leaning towards the likelihood' that far-left extremists were behind the arson attacks. 'We have identified the profiles of several people,' said Darmanin, before adding: 'This is the traditional type of action of the ultra left.' But when asked whether the people that had been identified were close to the far left, Darmanin said: 'We must be cautious.' He said 'the question is to know whether they were manipulated' or acted 'for their own benefit'. 'These are people who may be close to this movement,' the interior minister added. A young girl died while taking selfies for her TikTok followers at the top of a waterfall after falling in and drowning while trapped between two rocks. Moe Sa Nay, 14, was posing for snaps with her friends to share with her 150,000 social media followers when she slipped on the wet stones at the Sinywa Waterfall in south-east Myanmar on July 22. The teen was swept away downstream by the fast-flowing current and her body was left jammed between two large boulders. Unable to free herself, Nay drowned as the water crashed around her at the popular tourist destination in the town of Paung in Mon state. Rescuers dashed to the scene but struggled to retrieve the youngster's body in time. Moe Sa Nay, 14, died while taking selfies at the Sinywa Waterfall in south-east Myanmar on July 22 after slipping on wet rocks and falling in to the current Rescuers dislodged the teen's lifeless body from in between two boulders the following morning The youngster was swept away downstream by the fast-flowing current and her body was jammed between two large boulders Dramatic footage shows volunteers and firefighters battling to dislodge the lifeless girl's body from the rocks the following morning, on July 23. They were spotted tying her hands with rope and yanking her out of the narrow gap. Rescue worker Mon Zaw said: 'The one who slipped reached the bottom, but died after getting stuck between the rocks. 'She died because she couldn't get out. They tried to rescue her but couldn't pull her out. Then the aid organizations and officials came.' Moe's body was taken to the Paung Township General Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Meanwhile, her friend, who had also slipped down the waterfalls, suffered only minor injuries. It comes after a beautician, 39, plunged 170ft to her death while taking a selfie from a clifftop panoramic viewing platform in April. Inessa Polenko had climbed over a barrier then stumbled, falling onto a beach below, according to eyewitnesses. Paramedics arrived quickly at the scene but she died in hospital after falling from the Gagry viewing point in scenic Abkhazia, a breakaway region of Georgia. The viewing point overlooks the Black Sea. Also in April, two University of Dundee students drowned after falling into a waterfall 'while trying to take a selfie'. Nay, who had 150,000 followers on social media, drowned as the water crashed around her at the popular tourist destination in the town of Paung in Mon state The teenager was posing for pictures along with her friend who also slipped - but only suffered minor injuries Jitendranath Karuturi, 26, and Chanhakya Bolisetti, 22, were believed to have been taking pictures at the Linn of Tummel waterfall near Blair Atholl, when they slipped and plunged into the river below. They were then reportedly swept away, witnessed by a friend who was with them on their walk at the Highlands beauty spot. Their bodies were recovered by the Scottish fire and rescue service. It came as new research suggested that taking selfies should be considered a 'public health problem'. Academics in Australia analysed scientific papers and media reports on injuries or deaths from selfies worldwide since 2008. They found nearly 400 had been reported over the 13 years considered in the study. Victims were most likely to be female tourists in their early 20s, with falling and drowning while taking a photo the leading two causes of death. Researchers said the public must be made aware of the risks posed by selfies - with an estimated 92million snapped globally every day - and urged social media apps to install software to warn people of the dangers as they go to take a selfie. Dr Samuel Cornell, a risk expert at the University of New South Wales, Australia, and others wrote in the paper: 'The selfie-related incident phenomenon should be viewed as a public health problem that requires a public health response. 'To date, little attention has been paid to averting selfie-related incidents through behavior change methodologies or direct messaging to users through apps. 'Although previous research has recommended "no selfie zones", barriers and signage as ways to prevent selfie incidents, our results suggest this may not be enough. 'It may be prudent to also engage in direct safety messaging to social media users.' He has also been kicked out of the Navy and told to pay his victim 1,000 AB Pritchard, 23, was given two-year suspended sentence after his conviction A Royal Navy chef lured his colleague into a warship's scullery before locking the door and sexually assaulting him, a court martial heard. Able Seaman Liam Pritchard told his victim, who he had already groped on another occasion, he wanted to meet, because he was suffering from a 'low mood'. The sailor, who remains anonymous, 'reluctantly agreed' to meet with the 23-year-old in the HMS Northumberland's scullery because he wanted to 'help' him. But when he got there, AB Pritchard locked him in and assaulted him. Over a 45 minute period, the 'persistent' Navy chef subjected his colleague to a 'prolonged detention' by asking to kiss him, hug him, and grabbing his bottom. AB Pritchard has been kicked out of the Navy and given a two-year suspended sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting a male colleague (Pictured: AB Liam Pritchard outside Bulford MiIiltary Court, Salisbury, Wiltshitre) AB Pritchard was convicted of the attack following a trial earlier this year and has been described as being 'confused about his sexuality'. Now, he has been kicked out of the Navy, handed a two-year suspended sentence and has been asked to pay 1,000 to his victim. Bulford Military Court, Wiltshire, heard AB Pritchard - who joined the Navy in March 2022 - was working as a chef on the Type 23 frigate last year. The vessel carries out a variety of maritime security operations, including counter-piracy, escort duties and boarding operations. It was heard after AB Pritchard met his victim, who was also working on the ship, they began to exchange messages on Snapchat. His colleague was said to be 'open about his sexuality' and was under the impression the chef was straight, Assistant Judge Advocate Jane England said. Last year, the chef shared a 'consensual' drunken kiss with the seaman while on board the ship, it was heard. The judge described an incident which took place in the summer of last year. AB Pritchard 'tried to undress' his victim and groped his bottom over his trousers, the court heard (Pictured: AB Liam Pritchard outside Bulford Military Court, Salisbury, Wiltshire) AB Pritchard was sitting opposite his victim and began 'touching his leg' with his, before moving over and groping his crotch 10 times. The victim was 'taken aback' by what had happened. The judge told AB Pritchard: 'He messaged you to tell you that what you had done was wrong. That should have been a warning to you.' Later that month, AB Pritchard messaged his victim to ask him to meet up to discuss his mental health and 'low mood'. His shipmate 'reluctantly agreed' to meet him because he 'wanted to help', the judge said. She explained: 'Once in the scullery, you locked the door and removed the key. That was his only means of escape.' The judge said the pair were talking and AB Pritchard 'kept asking' his colleague for another kiss, to which he declined. While locked in the room, the 23-year-old asked his colleague for a hug to which he 'eventually' agreed. But, the seaman 'took advantage of that' and 'tried to undress him', it was heard. He placed his thumbs into his belt and groped his bottom over his trousers. 'You were persistent and, in his view, quite aggressive,' the judge said to AB Pritchard. The chef eventually let his victim leave. It was heard AB Pritchard's victim was left with depressive and suicidal thoughts after the assault in July last year. He said in a statement: 'I was feeling like the life I once had had been stripped away from me and I will never return to my normal former self. 'These incidents isolated me from my family and my friends as I did not feel I could talk to them about these incidents as I felt ashamed.' He said the events have had a 'massive impact' on both his personal life and career, and he still suffers 'flashbacks' of what happened to this day. Lieutenant Colonel Emma Whiting, prosecuting, said the seamen had episodes of panic attacks after the incident and felt 'unsafe' on board. Mitigating, Michael Green, said AB Pritchard 'continues to deny these offences'. He said: 'What happened on board was an unusual set of circumstances. 'A young man, just turned 22 at the time, perhaps being confused about his sexuality - perhaps being confused about [a] consensual kiss.' The barrister referred to a probation report which speculated that AB Pritchard's actions were 'misguided attempts to work out his sexuality'. Mr Green said that, despite the pair spending 35 to 45 minutes in the scullery, the offence itself was 'very short-lived'. He said AB Pritchard was 'someone who had worked hard during his time on board', had 'impressed his chain of command', and also had a 'real skill and passion for cooking'. AB Pritchard pleaded not guilty to two counts of sexual assault, but was convicted at a trial earlier this year. Now, the chef has been removed from the Royal Navy and handed a six-year custodial sentence, which has been suspended for two years. Judge England told the chef: 'You did [sexually assault him] on two separate occasions and it was clear that it was not what he wanted.' She said 'there's more to being a sailor than being good at your job', including treating colleagues 'with respect'. 'You did not do that,' she said. Speaking of the victim, she said: 'I hope that with help and time, he will come to realise that he is not to blame for these offences and that he should have no need to feel shame.' AB Pritchard will pay 1,000 compensation to his victim, carry out 180 hours of unpaid work and carry out 30 rehabilitation activity days. An award-winning architect has been suspended after he got into a bitter row with the owner of an 11million Grand Designs-style house who complained he couldn't see the sea from his swimming pool. Renowned architect Jamie Falla was hired in 2013 by a wealthy client to build a lavish coastal home in the Channel Islands, a tribunal heard. The original estimate for the cost for building the huge modernist property in Guernsey was 2million. However, the disciplinary hearing was told that costs have since ballooned to over 11million. Mr Falla was accused of a series of failings by the home's owner and their relationship became 'strained' over arguments related to his fees which ballooned to more than 200,000. Renowned architect Jamie Falla (pictured) was hired in 2013 by a wealthy client to build a lavish coastal home in the Channel Islands, a tribunal heard. Mr Falla was accused of a series of failings by the home's owner The original estimate for the cost for building the huge modernist property in Guernsey was 2million The disciplinary hearing was told that costs have since ballooned to over 11million The client complained that the view of the sea from the swimming pool is obstructed by trees, rooms in the house overheated thanks to faulty windows and did not have air conditioning, and that 'Tesla Powerwalls' weren't built correctly. Things got so hostile that at one stage the client threatened to throw the experienced architect off his second-floor balcony, the Architect's Registration Board (ARB) heard. The project is still unfinished, 11 years later. Now, Mr Falla, an architect of over 25 years who has built a number of stunning properties in the Channel Islands, has been suspended for two years after being found guilty of unacceptable professional conduct. The tribunal was told the property's owner - who was unnamed but described as 'an exacting client with a robust management style' - wanted to build a house to 'retire and live in his later years'. He purchased the property - Sea Lodge - in Fort George, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, and contacted Mr Falla in 2013 to start work, having hired him before in 2007. 'The intention was to create a minimalist property which was architecturally ''sharp'' in its design,' the panel heard. 'The project was a high value project, with [Mr Falla's] fees initially being proposed at 80,000 and then 400 a day for project management', a tribunal report said. 'The estimated build cost was 2million. Costs have since increased to over 11million on the construction, excluding professional fees. 'Issues arose about fees almost immediately and there was extensive correspondence on this issue.' It was heard 'numerous issues regarding Mr Falla's fees persisted' over the first few years but became a 'significant issue' in 2017 when his fee increased to 218,000. 'It appears that the relationship between [them] was, by this stage, very strained', the report said. 'The relationship appears to have completely broken down in September 2017. '[The client] stated that [Mr Falla] caused a project manager, appointed in 2017, to 'throw in the towel' and [his] work had constant shortcomings.' Mr Falla was accused of a series of failings by the home's owner and their relationship became 'strained' over arguments related to his fees which ballooned to more than 200,000 The tribunal was told the property's owner - who was unnamed but described as 'an exacting client with a robust management style' - wanted to build a house to 'retire and live in his later years' He purchased the property - Sea Lodge - in Fort George, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, and contacted Mr Falla in 2013 to start work, having hired him before in 2007 'The intention was to create a minimalist property which was architecturally ''sharp'' in its design,' the panel heard The client lodged his first official complaint in 2018, which was followed by many more and in 2019 they reached a settlement agreement. However, parties continued to work together and issues continued until they stopped in March 2022. An expert quantity surveyor said remedial works to fix issues with the property would cost 800,000. The tribunal heard one of the main issues was with the swimming pool. The client wanted a 'panoramic' view of the sea out to Herm Island from his pool, however Mr Falla failed to warn him his neighbours' trees would impede it. The ARB panel said: 'The Committee noted that the view was a fundamental design feature. The swimming pool was positioned specifically to take advantage of the view but was significantly impeded by the neighbours' trees. 'The Committee accepted [expert evidence] that a reasonable architect would have recognised the potential for the existing trees to impede the view and would have explicitly warned the [client] of this.' The tribunal also heard an outdoor gate didn't close properly, ceiling plasterboards didn't have double layers, and standing water was left within gutters. Overheating was also an issue. 'The windows were installed without an adequate solar gain coating,' it was heard. 'The property was not equipped with air conditioning in many of the rooms and some of the windows had restricted openings. 'Furthermore, there is no record of [Mr Falla] having sought to obtain written assurances as requested. This caused overheating of the property, discomfort to the [client] and damage to furnishings.' The panel was told Tesla Powerwalls - home batteries which store energy - weren't installed to the correct height, air con wasn't installed in many rooms, wire balustrades were not built adequately, and one underground had to be waterproofed retrospectively after it suffered from damp. It was heard that although it is still not finished, the client moved into the property. The property is connected to Lavinia Holdings Ltd, property records show. At the tribunal, Mr Falla denied all allegations. He said he 'acted professionally throughout the project' and said complaints were not 'justified'. He claimed the client 'was the only person he had ever received a complaint from in 25 years'. He even alleged the client 'threatened to throw him off a second-floor balcony' and that problems were due to the 'complexity' of the project and the client's 'reluctance to follow the regulations'. The panel found him guilty of five counts of serious misconduct. These were failure to act with due skill and care, acting dishonestly and lacking integrity, failure to issue adequate terms of engagement, failure to act without undue delay, and entering into an agreement that prevented the client from raising concerns with the ARB. The panel said: 'Five of the failings were found to be serious, in that they fell far below the standard expected of a reasonable architect. 'Although the failings relate to a single project, they represent a significant departure from the high standards expected of a registered Architect because the potential consequences were so serious. 'The foreseeable consequences included more time and money (including reinstatement costs and consequential delay), stress and inconvenience, and a prolonged period of uncertainty. 'The thread running through all of the factual findings... is a persistent lack of effective communication. 'Registered architects are expected to act with integrity and honesty at all times. 'Such qualities are fundamental to the personal standing of individual architects and maintaining public confidence in the profession. '[Mr Falla] chose to disregard his professional obligations to further his own needs.' The tribunal heard Mr Falla is now employed by 'Studio Otto', run by Lucrezia Cavallone. A German lingerie boss whose hunting dog mauled to death 20 lambs in a savage attack has been fined - just days after police warned her about the hound. Product development boss Ann-Kathrin Meyer's hunting dog 'violently' killed the sheep just four days after she got a formal warning from police demanding she keep the hound under control. The 36-year-old was taking her German Pointer for a walk when he broke away with his long lead and ran off towards the flock as they were grazing in a farmer's field. Attacking the poor flock one by one, the dog - named Alfie - grabbed each lamb by the neck, violently shook it before spitting it out and moving to the next on April 15. Mayer admitted that she should have kept him 'under control' but told the court she wanted to play fetch with him on a long lead. Product development boss Ann-Kathrin Meyer's hunting dog 'violently' killed 20 sheep Meyer works remotely for a German lingerie company from her home in Macclesfield but will relocate to Germany after the ordeal The attack at Upton Priory, near Macclesfield, Cheshire, was only brought to a stop when the farmer jumped into his car and chased after Alfie until the lead became trapped under the wheels. Police called to the scene discovered Mayer had earlier been cautioned when the same animal terrorised livestock by running riot around another field. This incident occurred in nearby Shutlingsloe at Wildboarclough. The cost to the farmer of losing his lambs was estimated at 3,000. At Crewe magistrates' court, Meyer - who works remotely for a German lingerie company from her home in Macclesfield - was ordered to pay 4,500 in fines, costs and compensation after she admitted having a dog dangerously out of control. Alfie was allowed to live despite prosecutors calling for him to be destroyed. After the incident, Meyer is due to move back to Germany. Gayle McCoubrey, prosecuting, said: 'The victim in this matter, Mr Sidebottom, had gone to check on his sheep at 5pm on April 15. 'But as he approached the sheep, he could see a dog he described as a setter chasing the sheep over the hill. 'He states that the dog which was running around on a long lead was picking the sheep up with its teeth and violently shaking them, then spitting them out and moving onto the next one.' 'He had to jump in his car and chase the dog and get the lead under the wheels. This was successful and after the dog stopped attacking the sheep, it became compliant and he was able to place the dog in his vehicle and contact the police. 'Twenty lambs were killed amounting to a loss of 3,000. The defendant is the registered owner of the dog. 'Inquiries revealed on April 11, the defendant was given a conditional caution at Macclesfield Police Station for a livestock incident occurring on February 25. One of the conditions was to keep the dog under control and on a suitable restraint at all times in public, irrespective of the activity. 'There were in fact three livestock worrying incidents this year. This victim has been the victim of livestock attacks on several occasions, but this is the first from the defendant's dog. 'The defendant comes as a woman of good character. But there was a lack of compliance with the conditional caution. Given the repeated incidents I believe I should ask for the destruction of the dog.' Representing herself, Meyer said: 'I was there, looking for him after I saw him running away from me. At Crewe magistrates' court (above), Meyer - who works remotely for a German lingerie company from her home in Macclesfield - was ordered to pay 4,500 in fines 'It was my responsibility to keep him under control and on a short lead. I had a short and a long lead on him. But when I played ball with him I took the short lead off him whist the long lead was still attached. It is not how it should be and I totally understand that.' Meyer added: 'I do not walk him on my own anymore and he is already wearing a muzzle. I have a character reference from our dog trainer who was helping us and Alfie has had four days of intensive training. 'Where we lived before, in Germany, there were no sheep. He never harmed any animals or any person. I am really sorry for what happened and I was so happy that the farmer was calm. I want to pay him for his loss.' Meyer was fined 1,077 ordered to pay 426 in costs and victim surcharge and pay 3,000 in compensation. She was also made subject of a contingent destruction order which means Alfie's life was spared on the condition Meyer keeps him on a lead and muzzle at all times when in a public place and that it is only walked by someone over the age of 16. JP Andrew Pope told Meyer: 'As a result of your negligence you caused loss to a farmer of 20 lambs. 'To put your mind at rest in terms of the dog we are not ordering the destruction of the dog. It can effectively remain alive provided these things happen but if you are found to have breached any of these things, the dog will be taken from you, by force is necessary, and put down. 'We also bear in mind you are going back to Germany. You also have to know that the German authorities have access to UK records. If you were to commit an offence in another country, this may well be visible to them.' Two men have been refused bail after they were allegedly 'caught red handed' during a botched assassination attempt in which a loaded gun was pointed at the wrong person. Police were called to a street in Sydney's eastern suburbs, about 8.20am on Thursday after a balaclava-clad man was seen carrying a pistol. Police allege Siaosi Maeakafa Tupoulahi, 24, had covered his head and was wearing all black when he approached a car and pointed the loaded gun at the person in the driver's seat. The court heard Mr Tupoulahi held a gun at the driver, who raised their hands in supplication, for ten seconds. The 24-year-old then allegedly got into a stolen rental car driven by Yousif Zrayka, 20, before the pair fled the scene. Mr Zrayka allegedly reached speeds of 45 km/hr in peak hour traffic along Old South Head Rd in Bondi as he refused to stop the grey Cupra Leon during a dramatic police chase. The 20-year-old was arrested when the vehicle finally came to a stop on the main road, but Mr Tupoulahi allegedly tussled with two officers when he resisted arrest. The court heard he fled the scene on foot and managed to evade police for 30 minutes before he was tasered by officers in the area. Two men have been refused bail after an alleged assassination attempt in Sydney's east. Picture: Channel 7 The two men allegedly initiated a pursuit in peak hour traffic when they refused to stop for police. Picture: Channel 7 When searching the rental car, police claim they discovered a loaded black revolver and a loaded semi automatic Glock pistol. The court heard the serial numbers had been filed off the guns and there were two jerry cans full of fuel inside the allegedly stolen car, which was wearing cloned registration plates. Police allege the men were loitering in the residential street in order to assassinate the owner of a luxury SUV, but they had mistakenly approached the wrong car. The identity of the high-profile alleged target has been suppressed by the Local Court out of concern for their safety. Mr Zrayka and Mr Tupoulahi spent the weekend behind bars on remand before their lawyer Ertunc Ozen SC appeared before Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on Monday to apply for their release. He argued his clients' alleged actions were 'quite amateurish' and there was no evidence that either man had been the mastermind behind the alleged assassination attempt. To find the men guilty of conspiracy to commit murder, Mr Ozen said all other reasonable explanations for their actions would have to be excluded. 'There remain evidentiary hurdles in relation to the conspiracy (to commit murder) offence,' he told the court. Mr Ozen proposed the men be granted bail under strict conditions including electronic monitoring, hefty sureties, and a ban on entering the area where the alleged incident occurred. However, Crown prosecutor Adrian Walsh said Mr Zrayka and Mr Tupoulahi had been 'caught red handed' and the case against them was a strong one. 'It's a well planned but poorly executed attempt,' he said. He asserted the 'nature and seriousness of the offences' would give the magistrate 'serious concerns' about releasing the men on bail. If granted bail, Mr Walsh said police were concerned Mr Zrayka and Mr Tupoulahi would endanger the safety of the community, commit further offences, interfere with witnesses and fail to appear in court. 'None of the bail conditions would ameliorate the concerns the court would have,' he submitted. 'The seriousness of the offending outweighs the general right to liberty.' Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund found the men had not sufficiently demonstrated why their detention was unjustified given the 'seriousness of the offending'. They were arrested on July 25. Picture: Channel 7 She noted police allege Mr Zrayka and Mr Tupoulahi had planned the attack and were 'walking around with loaded firearms in the middle of the day' before initiating a police chase through peak hour traffic. Ms Freund refused to grant the men bail. The alleged would-be assassins will remain behind bars on remand for nearly two months before they return to court in September. Mr Tupoulahi is facing 14 charges, including conspiring to murder any person, possession of a loaded firearm in a public place, and assaulting a police officer in the execution of their duty. Meanwhile Mr Zrayka has been charged with 11 offences, including conspiring to murder any person, possession of a loaded firearm in a public place, and take and drive conveyance without consent of owner. He will celebrate his 21st birthday while in custody on remand after being refused bail. No pleas have been entered. Sir Keir Starmer's vow that Labour will be 'builders, not blockers' is being questioned amid claims he will axe another key part of HS2 and shelve the Stonehenge tunnel. Both of the major infrastructure projects are reportedly under threat as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to set out a 20billion 'black hole' in the public finances. In a statement to the House of Commons this afternoon, Ms Reeves is expected to scrap or cut back a number of projects in a bid to ease budgetary pressures. The Government has signalled the beleaguered HS2 railway may end in a London suburb rather than running into the centre of the capital to Euston station as originally planned. Critics have warned such a move would be 'completely insane' and make HS2 a 'pointless' rail route. It has also emerged how Ms Reeves is poised to scrap a 1.7billion tunnel under the Stonehenge monument on the A303 in Wiltshire. This is despite the long-touted project, which has been subject to years of legal wrangling, being supported by English Heritage, Historic England and the National Trust. Sir Keir Starmer 's vow that Labour will be 'builders, not blockers' is being questioned amid claims he will axe another key part of HS2 and shelve the Stonehenge tunnel Chancellor Rachel Reeves, spotted out jogging in St James's Park yesterday, is set to outline a 20billion 'black hole' in the public finances The Government has signalled the beleaguered HS2 railway may end in a London suburb at Old Oak Common rather than running into the centre of the capital It has also emerged how Ms Reeves is poised to scrap a planned 1.7billion tunnel under the Stonehenge monument on the A303 in Wiltshire Slide me The HS2 project is shown in 2020 (left) and 2024 (right) in these National Audit Office maps Ms Reeves is set to heap the blame on the previous Tory government when she announces immediate steps to cut costs. She will claim a Treasury spending audit she commissioned shows the Conservatives overspent this year's budgets by billions of pounds after making a series of unfunded promises. She will also accuse the Tory government of 'covering up the true state of the public finances'. In October last year, former prime minister Rishi Sunak axed the northern leg of HS2 from Birmingham to Manchester as he blasted the project's ballooning costs. But he confirmed the high-speed rail link would run into London Eustion station as initially planned, despite reports trains could instead terminate at a new hub at Old Oak Common in west London's suburbs. This would have forced passengers to complete their journeys to central London on the Elizabeth Line. It has been reported that new Labour ministers, ahead of Ms Reeves' statement to MPs, have been weighing up whether to scrap the Euston section of HS2. Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden this morning confirmed the Government would 'examine' HS2. Asked about reports that the high speed line could end at Old Oak Common rather than run to Euston, he told Times Radio: 'We have inherited a very difficult situation on HS2. 'The previous government chopped it bit by bit so we are left with the bit that we have got left. We will have to examine that like all the other projects. 'But people can be assured that in the difficult decisions that we have to take we will prioritise things that will contribute to growth.' The Sunday Times reported that Ms Reeves will use her Commons statement to confirm the Government will not commit itself to a new 1.7billion tunnel under Stonehenge. But it said a final decision may not come until a ruling on the project by the Court of Appeal in the early autumn. In 2014, the then coalition government announced it would invest in a fully bored tunnel of at least 2.9km to remove much of the A303 from the World Heritage Site. Approval for the scheme was overturned by a judicial review in 2021, but it was approved again in 2023 with preliminary work scheduled to have begun this summer. A migrant sailing in an inflatable boat down a riverway in France shouted 'this is for Rishi Sunak' before picking up more people from a beach near Calais and travelling onwards across the English Channel. Footage captured a group travelling on a black dinghy before reaching the sea, where dozens of migrants waded into the water at Gravelines and pulled themselves onto the crowded boat on Monday morning. The saga unfolded in full view of French police, who stood by and watched as the migrants scrambled aboard the sorely overloaded craft before they set sail. The departures come just one day after another migrant died attempting the journey to the UK. Migrants sail down a riverway leading to the English Channel as one shouts 'this is for Rishi Sunak' A migrant sailing in an inflatable boat down a riverway in France shouted 'this is for Rishi Sunak ' before picking up more people from a beach near Calais this morning Footage captured a group travelling on a black dinghy before reaching the sea, where dozens of migrants waded into the water at Gravelines Migrants are seen desperately scrambling aboard a black dinghy off Gravelines A group of people thought to be migrants, including young children, are escorted by french police officers as they walk across the beach in Gravelines, France, during an attempt to board a small boat and cross the Channel A group of people thought to be migrants, including young children, walk across the beach in Gravelines, France, during an attempt to board a small boat to cross the Channel Migrants wave as they depart from Gravelines and sail into the Channel Men, women and young children, some wearing life jackets, could be seen appearing from sand dunes and walking across the beach. Some youngsters were carried on shoulders, but families turned back from the sea as others walked out into the water to be picked up by the inflatable boat. Police patrolled the beach and appeared to approach families before they turned away. Volunteers from refugee charity Utopia 56 were also at the scene and told the PA news agency they deal with emergencies, check the boats at sea are not in trouble, distribute clothes and monitor how police engage with migrants on the beaches. One volunteer, Pablo Eymard-Picollec, said of the families who turned back: 'I think a few police officers talked to them and told them to stay on the beach. 'As you can see on the boat, it was really, really crowded, so I think they assumed it was too risky for them to go, but we have to speak with them to know for sure the reason they didn't go today.' It comes as the French coastguard rescued 34 migrants, while one person died, after a 'heavily loaded' boat got into difficulty overnight from July 27 to 28. A group of people thought to be migrants wade through the sea to clamber aboard a small boat off the beach in Gravelines, France. Picture date: Monday July 29, 2024 A group of people thought to be migrants leave Gravelines in France onboard a small boat in an attempt to cross the Channel. Picture date: Monday July 29, 2024 A group of people thought to be migrants, including small children leave the beach in Gravelines, France, following an unsuccessful attempt to board a small boat and cross the Channel. Picture date: Monday July 29, 2024 Some youngsters were carried on shoulders, but families turned back from the sea as others walked out into the water to be picked up by the inflatable boat Another Utopia 56 volunteer, who wished not to be named, said they believe it's more dangerous now as the police have militarised the border. 'More and more people are coming in one boat because there is less chance for them to try,' they said. 'So there are more people now in one boat than before, there is more risk and things like yesterday.' The charity patrol group said they saw four boats leaving the French coastline on Monday morning. More than 16,000 migrants have made the journey via the English Channel this year so far, with the latest arrivals of 370 people travelling in six boats on Saturday. Some 34 people were rescued from an overcrowded migrant boat early Sunday morning - with one woman later dying amid the distress. The tragedy unfolded after desperate passengers on the inflatable dinghy called emergency services at around 5am. 'Rescuers saw an unconscious woman on board,' said a spokesman for the French emergency services. 'She was rapidly taken off and given first aid treatment, but she died on her way to hospital.' The woman - who has not been identified - was the seventh person to have died in such circumstances in July alone. A group of people thought to be migrants wade through the sea to clamber aboard a small boat off the beach in Gravelines, France File photo of migrants crossing the Channel File photo of Border Force attending a small boat incident in the Channel An emergency source said: 'She was nowhere near the water, but succumbed to being crushed by the amount of people around her. 'Migrants are drowning in the water, but the new phenomenon of people dying inside the boats is becoming very serious indeed.' The Maritime Prefecture said the boat requested assistance off the coast of Calais. The patrol boat Armoise, of the Maritime Gendarmerie, and French Customs Coast Guard boat Kermorvan attended the scene at around 5.30am. 'It was during the transfer of those who wanted to get off the boat that the rescue services noticed that there was an unconscious person on board,' said a spokesman. The victim was airlifted to hospital in Boulogne-sur-Mer, but 'she was unfortunately declared dead'. The spokesman added: 'Several people still on board the boat refused assistance. 'Given the risks of falling overboard or injury to people in the event of forced intervention, the decision was made to let the other people on this boat continue on their journey to England'. The year to date has been the busiest for crossings so far, with 14,759 migrants arriving between January 1 and July 16 - the most recent date for which figures are available. This compares to 14,622 in 2022, the second busiest year The dinghy was in the sea off the northern French port of Calais when it was reported overnight to the regional surveillance and rescue centre (CROSS). The centre dispatched a police vessel and a border guard patrol boat to the area at around 5:30am after 'some of the people aboard called for help'. On July 12, four migrants drowned overnight after being carried on a packed boat of 67 migrants off the coast of Boulonge sur Mer, also in northern France. Those who died were not wearing lifejackets when they died which sparked a police investigation into the people smugglers who were charging around 1,000 per person. Instead of life jackets, each was given a poorly inflated inner tube to hang on to in case of difficulty. The SNPs controversial hate crime law has led to only 43 convictions so far despite more than 10,000 complaints being made in under two months. Scotlands police chief Jo Farrell said it had been hijacked to make mischief when a flood of allegations were made after it began to be enforced on April 1. New figures reveal there have been just 43 convictions under the Hate Crime Act with many cases still being looked at and a total of 950 charges. Scottish Tory deputy justice spokesman Sharon Dowey said: The public will be dismayed at the resources being wasted on a law which risks free speech. According to Police Scotland statistics up to May 19, when the force stopped publishing weekly data, there were 10,029 reports from the public of alleged hate crime, and of those only 1,537 were recorded as hate crimes. More than 10,000 complaints were made in just seven weeks The 950 charges included cases prosecuted under the Act and other offences with a hate crime aggravator. The Crown figures show there were 108 charges with a hate crime aggravator for religious hate; 314 for racial hate; 14 for transgender and 18 for age. There have been 43 convictions under the Hate Crime Act in summary courts without juries and 65 cases are ongoing in solemn courts, with juries. A Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service spokesman said: In the very short time since the legislation came into force, 950 charges have been reported to us. Of those 82 per cent are either still ongoing in court or awaiting a decision by prosecutors. Seventy three per cent of the charges marked for prosecution have resulted in convictions and a further 105 charges initially reported as a hate crime resulted in a conviction for another charge. The spokesman added: As one would expect in such a short time many of the charges reported are still ongoing and it would not be prudent to make any assumptions regarding the efficacy of legislation at such an early stage. Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: The surge of reports at the time of the Acts introduction quickly reduced as the effect of misinformation and misrepresentation of the legislation subsided. Biden says proposal will 'strengthen democracy' and 'protect the rule of law' President Joe Biden has called for sweeping reforms to the Supreme Court, including term limits, a binding code of conduct for its nine justices and a constitutional amendment that would limit presidential immunity. Biden, citing 'recent ethics scandals' involving justices and high court rulings that 'overturned long-established legal precedents protecting fundamental rights', has called on Congress to pass three major reforms in a bid to 'restore trust and accountability' in America's democratic institutions. The White House on Monday detailed the contours of Biden's court proposal, noting how the Democrat believes 'no one - neither the President nor the Supreme Court - is above the law'. The President will officially propose the changes today during a speech in Austin, Texas, however his proposals appears to have little chance of being approved by a deeply-divided Congress with just 99 days to go before Election Day. Regardless, Democrats hope Biden's proposal will help to focus voters as they consider their choices in the tight presidential election. Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has sought to frame her race against Republican former President Donald Trump as 'a choice between freedom and chaos'. President Joe Biden (pictured July 7) is unveiling a long-awaited proposal for changes at the U.S. Supreme Court, calling on Congress to establish term limits and an ethics code for the court's nine justices. He also is pressing lawmakers to ratify a constitutional amendment that would limit presidential immunity United States Supreme Court (front row L-R) Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, John Roberts, Samuel Alito, and Elena Kagan, (back row L-R) Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Ketanji Brown Jackson Biden, in an op-ed published in the Washington Post, seemingly slammed the high court as he argued that America is facing a 'crisis of confidence' in the its democratic systems. 'This nation was founded on a simple yet profound principle: No one is above the law. Not the president of the United States. Not a justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. No one,' Biden penned in his op-ed. He added: 'I have great respect for our institutions and separation of powers. What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public's confidence in the court's decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms. We now stand in a breach.' Biden is calling for doing away with lifetime appointments to the court. He says Congress should pass legislation to establish a system in which the sitting president would appoint a justice every two years to spend 18 years in service on the court. He argues term limits would help ensure that court membership changes with some regularity and adds a measure of predictability to the nomination process. He also wants Congress to pass legislation establishing a code of ethics for justices that would require justices to disclose gifts, refrain from public political activity and recuse themselves from cases in which they or their spouses have financial or other conflicts of interest. Biden has also urged Congress to pass a constitutional amendment reversing the Supreme Court's recent landmark immunity ruling that determined former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution. It comes after the Supreme Court ruled in July that Trump cannot be prosecuted for actions that were within his constitutional powers as president in a landmark decision recognizing for the first time any form of presidential immunity from prosecution. The decision extended the delay in the Washington criminal case against Trump on charges he plotted to overturn his 2020 presidential election loss and all but ended prospects the former president could be tried before the November election. Biden's push for reforms comes a week after Biden ended his reelection bid and endorsed Harris to square off against Republican presidential candidate Trump in November. It also follows the Supreme Court's ruling that there is no Constitutional right to abortion and other decisions that blocked Biden's agenda on immigration, student loans, vaccine mandates and climate change. Although the proposal is unlikely to pass, Democrats hope it will help to focus voters as they consider their choices in the tight presidential election. Vice President Kamala Harris, (pictured during a campaign event on Saturday) the presumptive Democratic nominee, has sought to frame her race against Republican former President Donald Trump as 'a choice between freedom and chaos' It comes after the Supreme Court ruled in July that former President Donald Trump (pictured at a campaign event on Saturday) cannot be prosecuted for actions that were within his constitutional powers as president in a landmark decision recognizing for the first time any form of presidential immunity from prosecution Unlike other members of the federal judiciary, the Supreme Court's life-tenured justices have no binding ethics code of conduct. They are subject to disclosure laws requiring them to report outside income and certain gifts, though food and other 'personal hospitality' such as lodging at an individual's residence is generally exempted. The Court in November adopted its first code of conduct after revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas accepting undisclosed travel from a wealthy benefactor. There were also reports this year that flags associated with then-President Trump's attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss flew outside Justice Samuel Alito's homes in Virginia and New Jersey. Critics say the code of conduct does not go far enough since it allows justices to decide for themselves whether to recuse from cases and provides no enforcement mechanism. What changes has Biden called for in his SCOTUS reform proposal? President Joe Biden has urged Congress to pass urgent reforms to the conservative-dominated Supreme Court, in a bold but long-shot move. He is calling for the following changes: No immunity for crimes a former president committed while in office Term limits for SCOTUS justices Binding code of conduct for the Supreme Court Biden argues the proposed changes will 'strengthen American democracy' and 'protect the rule of law'. Advertisement The last time Congress ratified an amendment to the Constitution was 32 years ago. The 27th Amendment, ratified in 1992, states that Congress can pass a bill changing the pay for members of the House and Senate, but such a change can't take effect until after the next November elections are held for the House. Trump has decried court reform as a desperate attempt by Democrats to 'Play the Ref.' 'The Democrats are attempting to interfere in the Presidential Election, and destroy our Justice System, by attacking their Political Opponent, ME, and our Honorable Supreme Court. We have to fight for our Fair and Independent Courts, and protect our Country,' Trump posted on his Truth Social site earlier this month. There have been increasing questions surrounding the ethics of the court after revelations about some of the justices, including that Clarence Thomas accepted luxury trips from a GOP megadonor. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who was appointed during the Obama administration, has faced scrutiny after it surfaced that her staff often prodded public institutions that hosted her to buy copies of her memoir or children's books. Justice Samuel Alito rejected calls to step aside from Supreme Court cases involving Trump and Jan. 6 defendants despite a flap over provocative flags displayed at his home that some believe suggested sympathy to people facing charges over storming the US Capitol to keep Trump in power. Alito says the flags were displayed by his wife. Trump, at the time, congratulated Alito on his social media site for 'showing the INTELLIGENCE, COURAGE, and "GUTS"' in refusing to step aside. 'All US Judges, Justices, and Leaders should have such GRIT.' Democrats say the Biden effort will help put a bright spotlight on recent high court decisions, including the 2022 ruling stripping away women's constitutional protections for abortion, by the conservative-majority court that includes three justices appointed by Trump. Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts said in a Sunday interview with CNN's State of the Union that Biden's reform push is about reminding Americans that 'when they vote in November, the Supreme Court is on the ballot.' She added: 'That is a good reason to vote for Kamala Harris and to vote for Democrats in both the Senate and the House.' Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina pushed back that Democrats didn't complain when a more liberal-leaning court 'was pumping out opinions they liked.' 'Only when we brought constitutional balance back from having a conservative court was the court a threat to the country,' Graham said Sunday on CBS' Face the Nation. 'What's been a threat to the country is an out-of-control liberal court issuing opinions that basically take over every phase of American life based on nine people's judgment.' A security guard walks down the steps of the US Supreme Court in DC on July 19, 2024 The announcement marks a remarkable evolution for Biden, who as a candidate had been wary of calls to reform the high court. But over the course of his presidency, he has become increasingly vocal about his belief that the court has abandoned mainstream constitutional interpretation. Last week, he announced during an Oval Office speech that he would pursue Supreme Court reform during his final months in office, calling it 'critical to our democracy.' Harris, in her unsuccessful bid for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, had expressed being open to a conversation about expanding the nine-member court. The proposals unveiled on Monday do not include such an effort, which is something Biden as a candidate viewed skeptically. As a vice presidential candidate, Harris notably dodged questions about her earlier stance on the issue during her October 2020 debate with Vice President Mike Pence. The Harris campaign and aides to the vice president did not respond to queries about Harris' involvement in shaping the Biden proposal and whether she would pursue any other court reform efforts should she be elected. The White House in a statement said, 'Biden and Vice President Harris look forward to working with Congress and empowering the American people to prevent the abuse of Presidential power, restore faith in the Supreme Court, and strengthen the guardrails of democracy.' The debut of a 'death capsule' designed to carry out assisted suicides at the push of a button has been 'aborted', its creator has revealed. Euthanasia expert and inventor Dr Philip Nitschke said the first person expected to use the device was suffering from 'deteriorating mental health'. Dubbed Person X, the American woman in her 50s was due to die on July 17, but has now had her death in the 'Sarco' pod 'permanently postponed'. 'Given her situation, it is clear that this is a person who should now be receiving mental health care, rather than any suicide assistance' Dr Nitschke said. The controversial assisted dying advocate, who has been dubbed 'Dr Death', is now said to be involved in the pre-screening of the next person hoping to use the device. Australian euthanasia advocate Philip Nitschke (pictured), also known as 'Dr Death', is a former physician and head of the voluntary euthanasia campaign Exit International An early version of the Sarco Pod, which can be operated internally and works by reducing oxygen levels. No one has yet used it. The final prototype is in the finishing stages of being prepared The Sarco, short for sarcophagus, is meant to allow the euthanasia patient inside it to press a button and die 'within seconds', according to Dr Nitschke's company, Exit International. The pod - which looks like something out of a sci-fi film and has been likened to a Tesla car - fills with nitrogen to starve the occupant of oxygen, rendering the patient unconscious before they die. While the Australian researcher claims that his device would give people the chance to end their lives in a 'peaceful' way, pro-life groups have warned that the pods 'glamorize suicide'. Reports last month pointed to the 'imminent' use of the Sarco in Switzerland, with many expecting it to be used within the month. But Exit International claimed that the 'media storm' around the machine had contributed to the woman's worsening mental health. Dr Nitschke said that he had been concerned by 'multiple episodes of significant cognitive lapses bordering on pre-psychosis' as the date of the woman's planned euthanasia approached. On the day it had been scheduled to be deployed for the first time, euthanasia organisation 'The Last Resort' said it expected it to be used within the year instead. Discussing the next potential 'patient' to use the machine, Dr Nitschke said they would need to be made aware about possible attention from the media. 'Given the media scrutiny surrounding Person X, all future clients will need to be warned of the possibility that, despite our best efforts to keep their death private, any first use of Sarco will be the subject of intense media interest and reporting', he said. Swiss prosecutors warned earlier this month that anyone assisting someone in using the pods could face up to five years behind bars. Schaffhausen Canton Public Prosecutor Peter Sticher warned of 'serious consequences' for Nitschke for 'inducement and aiding and abetting suicide for selfish reasons.' In a letter obtained by Swiss media, Sticher said: 'There is no reliable information about the method of killing. '[It is] completely unclear who has control over which mechanical process during the dying process.' Prosecutors said that under section 115 of the canton's penal code, it would be impossible to establish just who was doing the killing Would-be users would have to fill in an online survey before being given a pod's location and an access code, like a delivery mailbox. Then inside the capsule, they confirm who they are, where they are, and if they know what happens when they press the button. If they go ahead a flood of nitrogen lowers the oxygen level from 21 per cent to just one per cent, supposedly killing them in 30 seconds. Nitschke explained: 'Death takes place through hypoxia and hypocapnia, oxygen and carbon dioxide deprivation, respectively. There is no panic, no choking.' The doctor's plans to use Sarco for the first time have caused uproar from 'pro-life' organisations, including CARE. James Mildred, director of engagement at CARE, said: 'Philip Nitschke's device has been condemned by a broad range of commentators. 'Many people feel that it trivialises, and even glamourises, suicide. 'We believe that suicide is a tragedy that good societies seek to prevent in every circumstance. 'There are ethical ways to help human beings that don't involve the destruction of life.' Swiss prosecutors warned earlier this month that anyone assisting someone in using the pods could face up to five years behind bars The project has come up against a number of obstacles in the past, with it unclear if Swiss authorities could prosecute over the use of the machine. Sarco's creators said in 2021 that it had passed legal review in Switzerland, where assisted suicide is legal and hundreds of people use the services of organisations such as Dignitas and Exit (a separate group to Dr Nitschke's) every year. But Kerstin Noelle Vokinger, a Professor of Law and Medicine at the University of Zurich, has said that Sarco may need to be certified under the country's Medical Devices Act, which it is not. As its manufacturer, Dr Nitschke could therefore be taking a risk by using Sarco if he were to be reported and a court came to the same conclusions as Vokinger, NZZ reports. A legal report previously stated it is not and does not break any laws. Labour has hinted at backing for the Elgin Marbles being sent on long-term loan to Greece as Keir Starmer woos the EU for closer ties. Culture minister Chris Bryant has raised eyebrows by praising the British Museum's attempts to resolve international disputes - such as over the Parthenon sculptures. The dispute has been running for centuries, with Rishi Sunak and his Greek counterpart clashing bitterly on the issue last year. Tory former chancellor George Osborne has been trying to negotiate a deal in his role as chair of the British Museum's board of trustees. That could involve the Marbles being sent to Greece for a decade - although it is unclear Athens will agree as it would mean tacitly accepting the Museum's legal ownership. Labour has hinted the Elgin Marbles (one section pictured) could be sent on long-term loan to Greece as Keir Starmer woos the EU for closer ties The dispute has been running for centuries, with Rishi Sunak and his Greek counterpart clashing bitterly on the issue last year Ending the saga could boost Keir Starmer's efforts to 'reset' relations with Europe, which he has made a priority for his premiership (pictured, the PM with Emmanuel Macron) Ending the saga could boost Sir Keir's efforts to 'reset' relations with Europe, which he has made a priority for his premiership. The fifth-century BC Parthenon sculptures were moved from Athens between 1801 to 1812 by the Earl of Elgin, when it was still part of the Ottoman Empire. The peer, who was the British ambassador, planned to set up a private museum before transferring them to the British Museum. Greece insists the artefacts were obtained illegally by Lord Elgin, but the UK is adamant that they were legally obtained by Lord Elgin with the permission of the Ottoman authorities. A 1963 law prevents the British Museum from permanently disposing of key items from its collection, although it would not stop a loan deal. In November last year, a diplomatic spat broke out between the UK and Greece with the Elgin Marbles at the centre. Mr Sunak cancelled a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in London after he said Britain keeping the marbles was like 'cutting the Mona Lisa in half.' The UK insisted that had broken a commitment from the Greeks not to use the visit for 'grandstanding' on the long-running spat. In March 2023 Mr Sunak underlined his stance that such relics should stay in Britain. 'The UK has cared for the Elgin Marbles for generations,' he said. 'Our galleries and museums are funded by taxpayers because they are a huge asset to this country... 'We share their treasures with the world, and the world comes to the UK to see them.' Answering a Parliamentary Question from Lib Dem MP Andrew George last week, Mr Bryant said: 'Decisions relating to the care and management of the museum's collections, including loaning objects from their collection, are a matter for the Trustees of the British Museum, in accordance with the British Museum Act 1963. The British Museum is operationally independent of the Government. 'We are aware that the Chair of the Trustees, George Osborne, has had talks with Greek Ministers on the issue, seeking a constructive partnership. 'We value the work that the British Museum does internationally, and welcome the success of their partnerships, such as the recent collaboration between the British Museum, the V&A, and the Manhyia Palace Museum in Ghana. 'With regards to the legal title for the Parthenon Sculptures, the removal of the sculptures was lawful and well-documented. They were transferred to the British Museum in 1816 and have been the legal property of the British Museum, not the UK Government, since then.' Greek Prime Minister Kiriakos Mitsotakis, who was embroiled in a spat with Mr Sunak about the Marbles In recent years, a number of items have been returned to their country of origins on loan agreements. This includes an agreement reached in January this year to loan a collection of gold items, referred to as Ghana's 'crown jewels', back to Ghana. The agreement to return artefacts, known as the Asante gold, is part of a three-year loan agreement with the option to extend for a further three years. A similar agreement is reportedly being negotiated with Greece which could see the Elgin Marbles returned to Greece as a part of an exchange for other artefacts from Greece to 'fill the void' Greece's culture minister Lina Mendoni said. An Indian solicitor has been struck off for conning the British government by organising 'sham marriages' to help immigrants get into the UK. Mathew Chellam was paid 'handsomely' for his 'corrupt services' helping people apply for residency despite not having the correct qualifications. The 53-year-old was said to have 'spun a veritable web of lies and deceits' in which he provided a package of 'false and fictitious' evidence to the Home Office. Chellam, who was jailed in 2016, has now been struck off after a Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) found his actions caused 'tremendous harm to the reputation of the legal profession'. The SDT panel heard that Chellam worked as a legal advocate in India. In 2013, after applying for a Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme, he was admitted to the UK roll of solicitors. The tribunal heard that between April 2011 and August 2014, Chellam made fraudulent applications to the Home Office for Non-EEA (European Economic Area) residence permits with the intention of assisting unlawful immigration. An Indian solicitor, who advised his countrymen on how to get into the UK by deceiving the Home Office, has now been struck off after being jailed for eight years (file photo) Between October 2012 and January 2013, the solicitor provided immigration advice and services when he was not qualified to do so. To offer advice, solicitors must be registered with the Office of the Immigration Service Commissioner (OISC), however, Chellam was not. He also sought to avoid his removal from the UK when his leave to remain ended by telling the Home Office that he was in a genuine marriage to a European national. Following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court in 2016, he was handed an eight year jail sentence after a judge condemned the solicitor for his 'misleading' and 'deceitful' behaviour. Chellam made bogus applications for residence pemits on behalf of illegal immigrants he advised as clients through Mathew Moghan & Co Advocates. The lawyer submitted false paperwork to the Home Office, including fake birth certificates and wage slips from sham cleaning companies. Chellam also arranged bogus weddings between Indian and French nationals, apparently taking place in Ghana. Ghanaian law recognises customary marriages by proxy - in which the bride and/or the groom are not even required to attend. Chellams handwriting was found on a documents in a series of police raids in 2014, including one at the Maamala Restaurant in High Street North in Manor Park, East London. Chellam was jailed at Snaresbrook Crown Court (pictured) Two secret offices were found at the rear of the restaurant where immigration records were seized bearing his law firms letter-head. Also found were forged Ghanaian birth certificates along with genuine French identity documents. Chellam was found guilty of assisting unlawful immigration to a member state, five counts of providing immigration advice without being qualified and seeking leave to remain by deception following trial earlier this month. KFC worker Venkataramana Enugu, 31, and 30-year old Jeykrishnan Murugesan were also convicted of seeking leave to remain by deception after being arrested in connection with the investigation. Both Indian nationals had submitted applications on the basis of being in relationships with French women, along with wage slips purporting to prove they were employed by one of the cleaning companies. All three applied through Chellam. The court heard that Chellam organised 'sham marriages between otherwise illegal immigrants and EU nationals' to breach immigration controls. He carried out an 'exploitation of the relatively informal arrangements which apply to customary marriages and proxy wedding ceremonies in Ghana'. His aim was to 'abuse the UK immigration laws on the pretext that there was some kind of spousal connection'. It was heard that the solicitor was also 'exploiting the rules' by creating 'fiction' that his clients were eligible to remain in the United Kingdom as extended family members. The crown court heard that his method was 'sophisticated' and that he 'spun a veritable web of lies and deceits'. Judge Oscar Del Fabbro told Snaresbrook Crown Court: 'A serious aggravating feature of these offences of which you have been unanimously convicted is that you were a lawyer at the time - purporting to provide legal services to clients who no doubt were paying handsomely for your corrupt services.' Now, after the SDT hearing, Chellam has been struck off the register. In discussing Chellam offering immigration advice without the qualifications to do so, the panel said: 'Such conduct is a fundamental affront to a rule designed to safeguard the fairness and justice of proceedings by ensuring that only those who are subject to appropriate regulatory oversight are able to act on behalf of a potentially vulnerable class of consumers of legal services.' They added: 'A solicitor acting with integrity would not have committed a crime repeatedly. The gravity of the offence was reflected in the [Mr Chellam's] custodial sentence. 'The trust that the public places in solicitors, and in the provision of legal services, depends upon the reputation of the solicitors' profession as one in which every member may be trusted to the ends of the earth. 'The conviction of a solicitor for a serious criminal offence leading to the imposition of a custodial sentence and attracting adverse publicity undermines the trust that the public places in solicitors and the provision of legal services.' He was struck off the Roll of Solicitors and has also been ordered to pay 4,058 in costs. An Air Canada flight from Morocco to Montreal was reportedly cancelled over a flight attendant's response to a passenger who asked for a blanket. Footage of Air Canada flight AC73 has gone viral showing the altercation between the airline employee and the female passenger who requested the blanket, as reported by CTV News. The flight attendant allegedly tried to remove the passenger from the plane and threatened to call the police before other passengers threatened to deplane in solidarity. The airline employee is heard saying: 'You will behave or we will get off!' and 'I'll tell the captain right away. Yes or no?' Footage of Air Canada flight AC73 has gone viral showing the altercation between the airline employee and the female passenger who requested the blanket When passengers tell her to call the captain, the flight attendant says, 'I don't want no bullying against my crew.' A video was shared online, although the flight attendant was already shouting at the passenger by the time the camera began rolling. It remains unclear what happened beforehand and the female passenger who asked for the blanket has not been identified or come forward. Air Canada told CTV News the flight would depart from Casablanca to Montreal on Saturday with a different crew. A spokesperson for the airline said: 'We are taking this incident very seriously. It is under review, and we will take appropriate action. The upset female flight attendant was filmed gesticulating in both French and English to an unseen passenger on a jet that was set to fly from Montreal to Casablanca, Morocco This man's displeasure was clear to see as the verbal tussle continued, with the flight ultimately canceled Air Canada issued a groveling apology and have launched a probe into the embarrassing incident 'We apologize to our customers and deeply regret that their experience today fell far short of what they have come to expect when flying with Air Canada.' Meanwhile on Sunday a Boston-bound United Airlines flight was diverted after both passengers and crew began vomiting due to a passenger-involved biohazard incident that forced an emergency landing in the nation's capital. United Airlines flight 2477 departed from Houston at 9:39 a.m. CT on Sunday destined for Boston, but was forced to reroute when a customer became sick, the airline told DailyMail.com. The plane, a Boeing 737-800, was diverted to Washington Dulles International Airport, landing at 1:36 p.m. ET, according to FlightAware. The US cities where it's easiest for young graduates to find a good job have been revealed - and four out of the top five are in the south. Though the unemployment rate is high at 4.1 percent with 6.8 million people out of work as of July 5, there are still pockets of promise for young recruits in some states. Raleigh topped the table for the best entry-level jobs combined with the cost of living there being easier on the wallet than the big city hustle. The North Carolina capital was followed by Austin, Texas; Baltimore, Maryland; Atlanta, Georgia; and Charlotte, NC in the top five cities for newly-minted grads. Researchers from payroll provider ADP weighed wages in 55 US metro areas against the affordability of the area and hiring rates for people with a college degree. Raleigh, North Carolina topped the table for the best entry-level jobs combined with the cost of living there being easier on the wallet than the big city hustle Ranking second is Austin. Compared with other major cities, the Texas capital comes with a low cost of living and is home to major company hubs like the Apple campus (pictured) With tech giants like IBM and Red Hat calling it home, Raleigh is bursting with opportunities in IT and engineering. It's also part of the so-called Research Triangle, named after three colleges in the area - Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. Major employers like Gilead Sciences, Cisco Systems and MetLife have also recently opened locations in Raleigh, company officials told the Wall Street Journal. Ranking second is Austin. Compared with other major cities, the Texas capital comes with a relatively low cost of living. Austin's average monthly rent comes in at just $1,480, per Redfin - compared with $4,726 in New York City and $2,754 in Los Angeles. Raleigh's average rent is also relatively low at $1,438 per month. As the live music capital of the world with a thriving tech scene thanks to companies like Apple, Dell and Oracle, Austin is also a haven for young professionals. Third place in the ADP rankings is Baltimore, where a string of new restaurant and business openings are offering plenty of entry-level jobs for graduates. The top-ranked city for graduates of Raleigh, NC, is also part of the so-called Research Triangle, named after three colleges in the area - Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University Ranking second for graduate job prospects is Austin, Texas. Compared with other major cities, the Texas capital comes with a relatively low cost of living Meanwhile, Johns Hopkins University and its affiliated medical institutions are constantly on the lookout for fresh talent, and startups are thriving in this historic city. In fourth place with a booming film industry, a growing tech sector, and major corporations like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines, the job market in the Peach State's capital of Atlanta is ripe with opportunities. The city has focused on creating new careers this year, with the Metro Atlanta Chamber launching a campaign in spring aimed at professionals under the age of 40 to promote diverse job routes. Coming in fifth in the ADP rankings is another North Carolina metropolis. Tech firms in the city of Charlotte have been on a hiring spree, meanwhile Bank of America told the Wall Street Journal bosses have been focused on recruiting students from the state. Olympic Games commentator Bob Ballard has urged people not to 'pile on' his co-presenter Lizzie Simmonds after he was axed from Eurosport for making a 'sexist' remark. Ballard, 64, lost his spot as a commentator last night after he said the Australian 4x100m freestyle female relay team were late to leave the swimming venue because they were 'doing their make-up'. The former BBC pundit said: 'The comments I made during the Australian freestyle relay victory ceremony on Saturday have caused some offence. 'It was never my intention to upset or belittle anyone and if I did, I apologies. I am a massive advocate of women's sport. I shall miss the Eurosport team dearly and wish them all the best for the rest of the Olympics.' 'P.s. don't pile on Lizzie Simmonds - please!' he added. 'She has nothing to do with this.' Former Olympic swimmer Ms Simmonds, who was sat alongside Ballard on the commentators bench, slammed the comment as 'outrageous' as they broadcasted live, causing Ballard to chuckle. Eurosport commentator Bob Ballard has been removed from the Olympics after his comment Mollie O'Callaghan, Shayna Jack, Emma McKeon and Meg Harris of Team Australia with their medals after the women's 4x100m freestyle relay final at Paris La Defense Arena on Saturday Eursport commentators, with Ballard pictured left, and Simmonds pictured right Ballard went on to urge people not pile on Lizzie Simmonds, adding 'she has nothing to do with this' He also called for people not to 'pile on' his fellow commentator Liz Simmonds adding: 'P.S. Don't pile on Lizzie Simmonds - please! She had nothing to do with this.' Australia's quartet Emma McKeon, Shayna Jack, Mollie O'Calloghan and Meg Harris won gold on Saturday at the Paris Aquatic Centre. But as they made their way out to collect their medals, Ballard said: 'Well, the women just finishing up. You know what women are like hanging around, doing their make-up.' The clip quickly went viral causing outrage amongst some with Eurosport quickly removing Ballard from their coverage. 'During a segment of Eurosport's coverage last night, commentator Bob Ballard made an inappropriate comment,' a statement from the broadcaster read last night. 'To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect.' The embarrassing remark comes as Paris organisers have promoted the event as 'The Equal Games', with the IOC celebrating the fact that women now make up 50 percent of its participants. Those watching the Olympics were divided over Ballard's remarks, while some called him to go other's blasted the decision from Eurosport claiming 'it was just a joke'. From left to right: Emma Mckeon, Meg Harris, Shayna Jack and Mollie O'Callaghan of Australia Some on social slammed the decision as a 'ludicrous' example of cancel culture 'When will these people ever learn?' asked Loughborough University's Professor Pragya Agarwal on X. 'Why aren't they being given some training?' 'Bob Ballard hang your head in shame and get off the broadcast and back to the 1930s,' one fan wrote on X. The majority of MailOnline readers - 72 per cent - have backed Ballard disagreeing that it was a 'sexist statement'. A further 23 per cent backed Eurosport's decision, agreeing that it was a 'sexist statement' while 5 per cent of the 55,000 respondents said they were not sure. Messages of support for Ballard were also on flooding in on his X profile today, with one saying it was a 'ludicrous cancellation' and another bemoaning the 'extreme injustice dealt to you by the woke mind virus brigade'. A third wrote: 'Countless hours of commentary, trying to keep things interesting and entertaining, sometimes when not much happening. And then removed for one misjudged comment. A chance to apologise would have seemed more proportionate. Take care Bob.' Born in September 1959, Ballard has a career spanning over four decades and has been commentating since the mid-1980s on sports including swimming, diving, ice hockey, tennis, basketball, water polo, football, and cricket. Ballard has said he did not intend to 'upset or belittle anyone', as he apolgises for a 'sexist' remark he made about Australia's female swimmers Emma McKeon, Shayna Jack, Mollie O'Callaghan and Meg Harris celebrate in Paris He founded a production company called RHB Productions Ltd which is based in Dorchester, Dorset, and has also worked as a music and news presenter on BBC local radio. He has also previously said that at the BBC, he encountered 'a lot of negative things when people found out I was gay'. It is not the first time, however, that Ballard has had a run-in on air. In 2005 at the World Championships in Montreal he was blasted for being 'the most negative journalist'. 'I duly went to the interview position and spent a few awkward minutes on live TV being lambasted by the national performance director, who accused me of being the most negative journalist,' Ballard told Swimming.org in 2019. 'That came as a surprise to the swimmers, who had always considered me very sympathetic and objective. It was used on Breakfast News, both BBC and ITV the next morning, and I've never been allowed to forget it by the coaches who were around in 2005.' Japanese airports have announced a ban of motorised rideable suitcases following a string of crashes. The suitcases can be bought in the UK and cost as much as 1,095 from retailers such as Selfridges. Japan is also currently mulling a nationwide crackdown on battery-powered luggage after a Chinese woman became the first person to be referred to prosecutors in June for riding without a license. Motorised rideable suitcases have been growing in popularity across Asia. Reaching a top speed of 6mph, they offer passengers the ease of travel to whizz around airport terminals or cities rather than having to pull a heavy suitcase around. Celebrities such as K-pop stars from the band Blackpink have also posted videos on social media of their members riding the suitcases - boosting the luggages popularity further. A woman riding a motorised rideable suitcase. Motorised rideable suitcases have been growing in popularity across Asia . Reaching a top speed of 6mph, they offer passengers the ease of travel to whizz around airport terminals Tokyo's Haneda airport. In February the airport moved to ban the bags to avoid collisions with travelers (stock image) Celebrities such as K-pop stars from the band Blackpink (pictured) have also posted videos on social media of their members riding the suitcases However, the rising prevalence of the suitcases has also caused anger among fellow flyers whose complaints have led to a clampdown in some Japanese airports. Both of Tokyo's airports have took a stand against the suitcases. The Daily Telegraph reports that in February Tokyo's Haneda airport moved to ban the bags to avoid collisions with travelers. Meanwhile Narita airport, also in Tokyo, advised passengers to be 'careful of your surroundings' after complaints of passengers whizzing past other travellers and causing disruption. And two other airports in Japan - Chubu Centrair International Airport in Aichi Prefecture and Kansai International Airport in Osaka - have also asked that people do not ride them inside their airports. Under Japanese law the suitcases are categorised as 'motorised bicycles' which mean they must be ridden with a license and while wearing a helmet - among other requirements. A boom in tourism, which has seen the number of tourists visiting Japan skyrocket to 3million a month this year, has led to more incidents of luggage riding tourists being stopped for breaking the law. Last month, a Chinese woman became the first person to be referred to prosecutors after she was stopped for riding her suitcase on the pavement in Osaka without a license. In July, an Indonesian boy was warned it was illegal to ride his suitcase when he was caught doing so in Osaka's bustling Dotonbori district. The popularity of the suitcases is yet to reach the UK. However, motorised rideable suitcases are available to buy in the UK. One such suitcase manufactured by a company called Tech Bar (pictured) can be bought from Selfridges for 1,095.95 Speaking to Kyodo News, Takeru Shibayama - a senior scientist at the Vienna University of Technology's Institute for Transportation - claimed a revision of Japanese law will need to be discussed to deal with the suitcases. He said: 'Unexpected new forms of transport will continue to emerge.' Mr Shibayama added that the country will need to discuss 'whether a new classification [for the suitcases] should be established.' The popularity of the suitcases is yet to reach the UK. However, motorised rideable suitcases are available to buy in the UK. One such suitcase manufactured by a company called Tech Bar can be bought from Selfridges for 1,095.95. British Airways, prohibits smart luggage from being taken on flights if the lithium battery cannot be removed. However, the website states: This does not include self-propelled ride-on baggage where the battery is used to provide electromotive power that provides propulsion to the suitcase.' MailOnline have contacted Britain's three busiest airports - Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester for comment on their policies towards motorised suitcases. A law student realized she had made a big mistake while paying rent, after discovering she had been sending money to the wrong Venmo account. Kody Lynn, 24, revealed in a viral TikTok video that her security deposit and rent had been going to the wrong account over the past year. Lynn claimed the Venmo recipient was a 'random financial investor in Ohio' whose sister spent all the money. The University of Kentucky student is now preparing to move out of her apartment after her landlord informed her they would file a lawsuit against her for $18,508. 'I wish it was April 1st, unfortunately for me it is now,' Lynn wrote in the description of the video that's been viewed by over three million TikTok users. Kody Lynn (@lizzywithaglizzy), 24, revealed in a viral TikTok video that her security deposit and rent had been going to the wrong Venmo account over the past year @lizzywithaglizzy I wish it was April 1st, unfortunatley for menit is now (: original sound - Kody Lynn Lynn posted three update TikToks a day after sharing her July 17 video to explain her 13-month living situation in further detail. The graduate student seemed to live comfortably in her unit and told the owner she was interested in renewing her lease. In her first update, Lynn admitted she spelled the Venmo name wrong by one letter. 'To my defense, the Venmo I was supposed to be sending it to had no profile picture, and all their transaction history was private. The Venmo I sent it to had no profile picture, and their transaction history was private,' she said. Lynn had communicated with the property manager about rent, and that it was them who told her about the payments going to the wrong Venmo user. The property manager texted her a screenshot of their Venmo to compare it to the one she sent money to and pointed out the spelling error that Lynn couldn't see. Lynn, a graduate student, seemed to live comfortably in her unit and told the owner she was interested in renewing her lease The TikToker accessed her Venmo account and explained the error to the recipient while requesting that they pay back the $18,508 rent and security deposit. She eventually received $1,350 from the mysterious Venmo user, who requested that Lynn give him her phone number. The student allegedly recorded the phone conversation between the two of them, and researched their social media pages to see who they were. 'Their story is - they had relatives who passed away, and they thought that these payments had something to do with their relative who passed away,' Lynn said. She added that he claimed 'multiple people had access' to his Venmo, and his heroin-addicted sister was likely the person who took it out. Lynn said she was 'flabbergasted' by the situation during her second update, and he did his best to propose a payment plan to help her get the money back. The law student knew the payment plan wouldn't work, but it would be better if there were a settlement agreement rather than going to court. She allegedly called her landlord afterward and told him she could pay six months immediately, continue paying her usual rent, and forward the rest back to them. Unfortunately, Lynn received an email from the landlord a day later, who told her the entire balance needed to be paid within 60 days. This left her 'livid' and 'horribly offended,' and she claimed it was their 'mismanagement of funds and disorganization' that caused her rent-paying error. Lynn accessed her Venmo account and explained the error to the recipient while requesting that they pay back the $18,508 rent and security deposit In her third update, Lynn revealed that she immediately contacted a lawyer who specializes in landlord-tenant and real estate law. Following her conversation with the attorney, the student told the owner and property manager that she would be moving out of the apartment so that she would not have an eviction on her record. She claimed the owner and property manager responded they could 'figure out the rest' and have her pay the six-months of rent instead of her moving out. They have since sued Lynn, and she is prepared to fight them in court. 'I have an attorney now... I would love to not get sued, I would love to not have to go to court... I think all parties are at fault,' Lynn said. Lynn told the owner and property manager that she would be moving out of the apartment so that she would not have an eviction on her record Other TikTok users were not happy about the situation, and several commenters insisted Lynn was in the right. 'You're handling this so well though. So proud of you. You're giving major girl boss fancy lawyer vibes,' wrote a TikToker. Several others blamed the landlord for the error and said that it was not her fault. 'That random dude you were Venmoing has no obligation to pay you back in my opinion,' a commenter wrote. 'It's the landlord and management's fault totally for never confirming you missed payments.' An Oklahoma couple who went missing while scuba diving have spoken out and revealed the horrific injuries they suffered while lost at sea. Kim and Nathan Maker spent 38 hours floating in the treacherous waters of the Texas coast after a storm separated them from their diving group. The couple held on to each other for dear life as the U.S. Coast Guard searched over 1,600 miles for them. They suffered jellyfish stings and sunburns while treading the shark infested waters of the Gulf of Mexico and family said Nathan was nearly in a diabetic coma when he was rescued, reported KOCO. 'Because our body temperatures were dropping, we needed to keep swimming or we probably would have frozen to death,' Kim told Good Morning America. Kim (left) and Nathan (right) Maker were rescued after 38 hours floating in the treacherous waters of the Texas coast They suffered jellyfish stings and sunburns while treading the shark infested waters of the Gulf of Mexico and family said Nathan was nearly in a diabetic coma 'He [Nathan] is absolutely the reason that we are alive, just keeping our spirits up because it would have been really easy to give up.' The couple got separated from their group after helping another woman who had lost her grip on the down line - a rope that helps divers get to calmer waters. As the woman grabbed on to the rope, Kim got knocked off and storm quickly rolled in sweeping away the couple. 'The boat was getting smaller and smaller and smaller until its completely out of sight,' Nathan said. 'Kim and I just kind of took inventory of what we had on us and we tethered ourselves together.' When the storm came in and other divers made it back on the boat, they immediately notice the Makers were missing and began searching for them. The group enlisted the help of the Coast Guard who were just eight hours away from calling of the search when they found the Makers. Satellite footage captured the moment rescuers spotted the couple from the plane in the murky waters early Friday morning and sent a boat to them The couple got separated from their group after helping another woman who had lost her grip on the down line After the couple was released from the hospital, they went to their favorite Houston deli, Kenny & Ziggy's Satellite footage captured the moment rescuers spotted the couple from the plane in the murky waters early Friday morning and sent a boat to them. 'When that plane, it turned its nose towards us, Kim hits SOS on her light and it saw us,' Nathan said. 'Just out of the corner of our eyes this speedboat comes just streaming in and all of a sudden I can hear the voices of the coastguard guys,' said Kim. 'This sounds cheesy but I really believe we saw the hand of God that day and it was the hand of the coastguard,' Nathan said. 'I think the biggest thing was just believe in each other.' Family and friends are billing the rescue as nothing short of a miracle as storm swells threatened to swallow the pair whole. 'We thank everybody for their concerns and their prayers. This miracle was performed by the Coast Guard at Gods direction,' Charles Owen, Nathan's uncle, told KFOR. Kim and Nathan are experienced divers who tethered on to each other and kept each other's spirits up as they waited for help When the storm came in and other divers made it back on the boat (pictured), they immediately notice the Makers were missing and began searching for them The Makers are incredibly grateful for the U.S. Coast Guard and said they do plan on diving again in the future Lisa Shearin, a fellow diver on the fateful trip said: 'People dont survive that and not have a story to tell. They have a greater purpose, obviously, God truly did spare them.' After the couple was released from the hospital, they went to their favorite Houston deli, Kenny & Ziggy's. The restaurant shared a photo to Facebook with one of the owners and the couple as they enjoyed their meal. 'While they were floating in the water, with no protection, they said all they could think about was how they wanted to eat at Kenny & Ziggy's,' the deli said. 'They were released from the hospital this morning and came straight to the deli to eat and Ziggy got to meet them. Its a true miracle that they were not injured in any way or attacked or eaten by sharks.' The white Illinois cop who shot a 36-year-old black woman dead inside of her kitchen after she called the police to report a prowler in the area was described as a 'bully' when he worked at a different department. More allegations are coming to light against Sean Grayson, 30, in the wake of the horrific shooting of mother-of-two Sonya Massey which took place in the city of Springfield on July 6. CBS News spoke to Grayson's former boss, Girard Police Chief Wayman Meredith, about an issue that occurred in March 2023 which involved a woman who was outside of the cop's mother's home. 'He was acting like a bully. He was wanting me to do stuff that was not kosher,' Meredith said, adding that Grayson was 'steaming mad' and had recently been diagnosed with cancer. In a separate incident, an official at the Logan County Sheriff's Department, another of Grayson's former employers, called him out for 'lack of integrity, for lying in his reports, and for what he calls official misconduct,' reports CBS News. This isn't Grayson's first go with misconduct while on the job. His discharge from the Army was listed under 'misconduct (serious offense).' Grayson has also hopped around various police forces, working for six agencies in four years Sonya Massey, 36, was a loving mother-of-two who had suffered with mental health issues 'The sheriff and I will not tolerate lying or deception,' an officer tells him in a recording heard by the network. The officer then warns him that 'officers [like you] end up in jail.' Grayson was then accused of 'abusing his power' by 'harassing' two people during a traffic stop. The pair filed a complaint against the officer, accusing him of, among other things, not respecting the woman's privacy. The woman was asked to remove a bag of drugs she had inside of her body in front of Grayson and another officer. She was later taken to a nearby hospital to have the drugs taken out. Despite denials, the woman maintained that Grayson 'barged' into the examination room in the clinic when the bag was being taken out. The complaint was not held up and Grayson departed from Logan County in 'good standing.' It was shortly after that incident that he began working at the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office. It was previously reported that Grayson needed to attend a 'high-stress decision making class.' Grayson received that recommendation while working in Logan County after he failed to slow down during a vehicle pursuit that was called off. 'Deputy Grayson pursued the truck through Lincoln at a high rate of speed, reaching speeds of 63/30 MPH zones, and in my opinion, failed to show due caution while driving through stop intersections,' the chief deputy wrote at the time. Massey was shot at three times by Grayson earlier this month after she called police to report a prowler. She had a pot of water boiling on the stove when he arrived, which Grayson asked her to shut off and threatened to shoot her The report noted that Grayson's supervisor 'terminated the pursuit,' and Grayson turned off his emergency lights. He then 'continued at a high rate of speed (110/55mph zone) prior to striking the deer.' 'Deputy Grayson acknowledged he lacks experience,' the report said. It would go on to list a series of recommendations, including 'additional traffic stop training, report writing training, high-stress decision making classes and needs to read, understand and discuss issued Logan County Sheriff's Office Policy.' It is unclear whether Grayson ever followed through with those recommendations. His discharge from the Army was listed under 'misconduct (serious offense),' according to documents obtained by ABC News. The Army declined to release further information regarding Grayson's discharge, citing the Privacy Act and Department of Defense policy that prevents the release of information regarding conduct of low-level employees. Grayson worked as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic for the Army between May 2014 to February 2016 and he left with a rank of private first class, a spokesperson told ABC News. At a press conference, Massey's son, Malachi, told the audience that he could not bring himself to watch the bodycam footage which showed his mother's death 'A good mother. She was very smart and always helped everybody but herself. Just a ball of love, honestly, to me,' Malachi spoke lovingly about his mother, pictured above Malaci Hill-Massey, 17, and Sonya Massey's mother, Donna, sat down for an interview with CBS News in which they described the trauma they have experienced in the wake of the shooting During his time in the military, he was charged with a DUI offense in Illinois in August 2015 and another shortly after his discharge in July 2016 in the same county, ABC News reported. Autopsy findings released Friday on Massey confirmed that she died from a gunshot wound to the head that she died on July 6. The report was released shortly before civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Massey's family, denounced the killing by the ex-sheriff's deputy as senseless, unnecessary and excessive. Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon had previously disclosed initial findings on Massey's July 6 death in Springfield and the full autopsy report released Friday confirmed those conclusions, including that her death was a homicide. In addition to the bullet striking her just beneath her left eye, Massey had 'minor blunt force injuries' to her right leg, the autopsy said. Grayson has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct charges in Massey's killing. He was fired last week by the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office and has been jailed without bond. Crump, at his third news conference this week since the body camera video was released Monday, used an enlarged diagram from the autopsy that showed the bullet exited on her lower neck in a downward trajectory. That, he said, emphasizes the physical mismatch between Massey and the much larger Grayson, who fired on her because he said he felt threatened by a pan of hot water she was moving from her stove. Attorney Ben Crump is seen at at a press conference highlighting the circumstances surrounding Massey's death The shooting has sparked more protests against police brutality in the US Autopsy findings released Friday on Massey confirmed that she died from a gunshot wound to the head that she died on July 6 'When Sonya Massey was staring at the barrel of his gun, she stooped down, said, 'Sorry, sir, Sorry,' and the bullet was shot while she was in this stooped position, coming up,' Crump said. 'The autopsy confirms what everybody already knows, that this was just a senseless, unnecessary, excessive use of force.' Grayson is 6-foot-3 and 228 pounds. The autopsy lists Massey at 5-foot-4 and 112 pounds. Prosecutors have added that the distance between shooter and victim and a counter between them gave Grayson 'distance and relative cover' from the hot water. Authorities said Massey had called 911 to report a suspected prowler. Two deputies eventually showed up at her house about 200 miles southwest of Chicago. The video confirmed prosecutors' earlier account of the tense moment when Grayson yelled across a counter at Massey to set down a pot of hot water, aiming his 9mm pistol at her and threatening to shoot her in the face. He fired three times. The unidentified deputy with Grayson then said he would get his medical kit, but Grayson said, 'She done. You can go get it, but that's a head shot. There's nothing you can do, man.' He later relented while the second deputy held towels to Massey's head to try to stem the bleeding, but by the time Grayson returned with his kit, emergency medical professionals had arrived and when they told Grayson his help wasn't needed, he threw his kit on the floor and said, 'I'm not even gonna waste my med stuff then.' Massey struggled with mental illness, according to her family. Her son, 17-year-old Malachi Hill Massey, said Friday that he and his 15-year-old sister had moved in with their fathers because Sonya Massey had admitted herself to a 30-day inpatient program in St. Louis sometime during the week before her death, but returned two days later without explanation. Malachi Massey also said that on July 5, the day before the early morning shooting, law enforcement officers whom he thought were from Sangamon County were called to the house and were there when he arrived. By then, his mother had called him to say she was driving herself to a local hospital, apparently for mental health treatment. He said he doesn't know who called police or what help she was seeking that day. A plane crash that claimed the lives of three members of the gospel group The Nelons and four others may have been caused by an equipment malfunction. The single-engine Pilatus PC-12/47E turboprop airplane reported an 'autopilot issue during flight' before crashing Friday afternoon in northeast Wyoming. Beloved members of The Nelons, Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and Amber Nelon Kistler, were killed on board, alongside four others. Dan Gryder, a pilot and crash investigator, suggested that such extreme movements at 300 mph could have caused the plane to break apart mid-air. 'Like, when you stick your hand out going down the road,' Gryder told the Cowboy State Daily. 'It forces your hand up with a lot of force.' The force of the plan could have sparked a 'domino effect' with parts of the plane breaking off while still airborne, Gryder said, leaving passengers to endure every minute of the violent descent until impact. The plane crash that claimed the lives of three members of the gospel group The Nelons and four others may have been caused by an equipment malfunction. (Pictured: L-R, Jason Clark, Autumn Nelon Clark, Kelly Nelon Clark and Amber Nelon Clark of musical group The Nelons) The single-engine Pilatus PC-12/47E turboprop airplane reported an 'autopilot issue during flight' before crashing Friday afternoon in northeast Wyoming Once the plane starts to break apart, 'you're done,' he told the outlet, explaining that it's impossible to reverse the crash at that point. The impact would have come after two violent minutes, which he believes everyone on board would have been alive to experience until the crash. Among the victims were Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and Amber Nelon Kistler of The Nelons, along with Nathan Kistler, Melodi Hodges, and Larry and Melissa Haynie. The plane reported an equipment malfunction common with problems that model of aircraft is known to have, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) spokesman Keith Holloway told the outlet. Flight data indicates the aircraft experienced violent pitching up and down before plummeting from an altitude of 26,000 feet. The force of the plan could have sparked a 'domino effect' with parts of the plane breaking off while still airborne, Gryder said, leaving passengers to endure every minute of the violent descent until impact (Pictured: Kelly Nelon Clark, Amber Nelon Thompson, Autumn Nelon Clark, and Jason Clark of The Nelons) A heartbreaking video detailing the last moments of the US group The Nelons was unearthed (pictured L to R: Jason Nelon Clark, Melodi Hodges, Kelly Nelon Clark and Melissa Haynie) The aircraft, which had departed from Nebraska and was bound for Billings, Montana, crashed near the Montana border in northern Campbell County. Local law enforcement reported finding debris scattered over a large area, supporting the theory of mid-air breakup. The crash also ignited a significant fire due to the plane's fuel load, which local firefighters battled from the air and ground. NTSB are set to share a preliminary report in about two weeks after an investigation. 'The aircraft is in a remote location, and once (investigators) gain access, they will begin documenting the scene, examining the aircraft,' Holloway said Saturday. 'The aircraft will then be recovered and taken to a secure facility for further evaluation.' This weekend, devastating footage taken by singer Jason Nelon Clark showed six of the seven victims laughing amongst each other just hours before the tragic accident. Jason, Kelly, and Amber smiled in the post, which was captioned, 'Gaither Alaskan Cruise Travel Vlog.' Melodi, Larry, and Melissa looked excited to board their flight in the footage. Amber's husband Nathan, who was also on board the flight when it crashed, was not seen in the clip. In the video, Jason said: 'Gaither Homecoming Alaskan Cruise, we are on our way. We just landed in Nebraska.' Kelly laughed before the camera was turned around to show their pilot. Jason quipped: 'There's our wonderful pilot. This is the dude right there.' The tragic clip showed the family standing in front of the doomed jet before it crashed over a remote area of northeastern Wyoming (pictured far right: pilot Larry Haynie) Fourth member Autumn (second from left), who wasn't on the plane, released a statement on Saturday to announce the tragedy The clip ended with the high-spirited group stating they were going to Nebraska City before traveling to Montana for a second stop. Fourth member Autumn, who wasn't on the plane, released a statement on Saturday to announce the tragedy. She wrote: 'As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday. 'Thank you for the prayers that have been extended already to me, my husband, Jamie, and our soon-to-be-born baby boy, as well as Jason's parents, Dan and Linda Clark. We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.' A statement from Gaither Management Group added: 'One of the best loved Gospel music families in America, The Nelons were involved in a tragic, fatal plane crash on Friday afternoon on their way to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. 'Killed in the crash were Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, Amber and Nathan Kistler and their assistant, Melodi Hodges, along with the pilot, Larry Haynie and his wife, Melissa. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident. 'Autumn, Jason and Kelly's youngest daughter, and her husband, Jamie Streetman were not on the plane and arrived safely into Seattle and were notified of the accident. 'They were brought to the hotel where artists were gathered with Bill and Gloria Gaither to pray, sing and embrace them in their grief, pledging to support them in whatever needs arise. 'Autumn and Jamie will return home for now to Kelly's brother, Todd Nelon and his wife, Rhonda, to begin the hard tasks that lie ahead. Please keep them, the Kistler family, the Haynie family and the family of Melodi Hodges in your prayers.' A young British holidaymaker was mysteriously found dead in his hotel room during a break in Benidorm with friends, an inquest heard. Harvey Dominy was discovered on the floor of the room after his friends returned from an evening out in the Spanish party town. A post-mortem investigation into the 21-year-old's death has proved inconclusive and coroners have requested more information from Spanish authorities. An inquest was told emergency services were called after they couldn't find a pulse, but Mr Dominy was pronounced dead at the scene. The hearing was told his friends went out around 7pm and they found Mr Dominy, of Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, on the floor when they returned hours later. Harvey Dominy, 21, (pictured) was on holiday with friends in Benidorm earlier this month Mr Dominy, of Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, was found unconscious on the floor of his hotel room when his friends returned from a night out The court heard it is estimated that Mr Dominy had died at some point between 9pm and 10.30pm that evening. A post-mortem examination was carried out but didn't provide a provisional cause of death. Assistant coroner Kerrie Burge adjourned the Pontypridd inquest until further information is obtained from the Spanish authorities. Friends paid tribute to Harvey with a balloon release near his home at the weekend. Liam Greenaway wrote: 'I honestly don't know what to say, I've honestly lost a part of me, my right arm you was my bro. 'You was so special to everyone but most important to me, honest the best boy ever [you] was brother.' Friends paid tribute to Harvey with a balloon release near his home at the weekend Assistant coroner Kerrie Burge adjourned the Pontypridd inquest until further information is obtained from the Spanish authorities Kooler nightclub in Merthyr Tydfil encouraged revellers to raise a toast to Harvey while playing 'Forever Young' last weekend. In a post the venue said: 'We at Kooler Nightclub are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Harvey Dominy. 'His vibrant energy and unwavering support brought joy to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.' A family friend has set up a fundraiser for Mr Dominy's family that has raised more than 13,000 since it was set up ten days ago. This is the horrifying moment the driver of a Porsche ran over and killed a motorcyclist who had allegedly broken his side view mirror moments earlier. A surveillance camera showed the yellow luxury vehicle speeding down a Sao Paulo, Brazil, avenue and hitting the bike during the early hours Monday. The Porsche then careened over the sidewalk and hit a pole and a tree. The motorcyclist, Pedro Figueiredo, 21, was rushed to a local hospital, where he died. A cell phone video recorded by a bystander showed the driver, Igor Sauceda, 27, standing next to his car and waving off a group of people who reprimanded him. The Porsche was seen on the street surveillance camera slamming into the back of the motorcycle moments before hitting a tree and a pole in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Monday Pedro Figueiredo was riding his motorcycle in Sao Paulo, Brazil during the early hours Monday when he was run over by a Porsche driven by Igor Sauceda and later died at a hospital Witnesses told the police that Sauceda got into an argument with Figueiredo, who allegedly broke the car's side view mirror. Sauceda remained at the scene of the accident and was taken to the Legal Medical Institute, where he took a breathalyzer test, which came back negative. He then escorted under heavy police presence to a station, where he was expected to be questioned and then released because 'he remained at the scene until the victim was rescued and was not drunk,' according to the Sao Paulo Public Security Secretariat. He told investigators that he just finished working and driving home with his girlfriend Marielle Campos, who was sitting in the passenger seat, when 'unexpectedly a motorcyclist passed by on his left side and broke his side view mirror.' Sauceda added that 'at one point the motorcycle was in front of him and abruptly changed lanes.' A surveillance camera capture the moment a Porsche driver ran over and killed a 21-year-old man who was riding a motorcycle in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Monday Igor Sauceda was seen standing next to his Porsche moments after he ran over a motorcycle rider, who died at a local hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Monday Alex Figueiredo told reporters that if his son really broke the Porsche's side view mirror, it didn't 'it doesn't justify him (the driver) taking the boy's life' Campo was injured in the accident and was taken to a hospital. The extent of her injury is unknown. Sauceda was not injured. The incident is being investigated as manslaughter and bodily harm. Figueiredo's father, Alex Figueiredo, was seen in a video shouting at the driver as he waited for Sauceda at the police station Monday morning. 'I just want to know why he did. Even if he from the mirror or something like that, it doesn't justify him taking the boy's life,' Alex Figueiredo told reporters. 'Is life worth a side view mirror?' he said. 'Now he's going to be able to go back and bring my son home, into the family?' Pedro Figueiredo leaves behind a three-year-old daughter. 'No father expects to bury his son,' Alex Figueiredo said. 'My son is everything to me. A boy who always worked, always helped me. He always pursued his little goals without harming anyone.' Metropoles news identified Sauceda as the owner of Beco de Espeto, a bar in the western Sao Paulo neighborhood of Itaim Bibi. The search for a missing six-year-old non-verbal autistic boy from Washington DC has ended in tragedy after his body was found in a pond. Fawzan Hassan was last seen around 3pm on Saturday near the playground at Bohrer Park located in Gaithersburg, Maryland on the same day a picnic event was held by members of the Ethiopian community. His family were among those in attendance. Montgomery County Police announced at a news conference on Sunday evening, that the body was discovered in the pond around 5.30pm by a group of volunteers. Police and fire departments and the Maryland National Capital Police searched overnight for the missing youngster. Drones had been used but due to snapping turtles in the pond divers were not deployed, officials said. The Montgomery Police said the pond had been searched twice but at the time the boy's body did not surface, as per a news release. The body of Fawzan Hassan, 6, who is non verbal and autistic, was found in a pond at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland Montgomery Police announced at a news conference on Sunday evening, that the body was discovered in the pond around 5.30pm by a group of volunteers Residents in the area were urged to check around their property, including under porches and decks, swimming pools, outbuildings, unlocked cars, and nearby playgrounds. They were also asked to review any home surveillance videos. The boy's distraught mother told the news outlet that the boy's grandmother was watching Hassan at the park during an event held by the Ethiopian community. She said Hassan' grandmother went to look for his sister and when she returned Hassan was gone. Azeb Adere with the Ethiopian Eritrean Special Needs Community, who helped organize the search, called the tragedy 'a sad day for the community.' She said there are many questions to why Hassan was not found sooner and was heartbroken for the family but told the news outlet that will have to wait. 'I am so sorry for the parents,' Adere said. 'I feel so bad and for communities to learn this so it doesn't happen to another child.' Police and fire departments and the Maryland National Capital Police searched overnight for the missing youngster. Drones had been used but due to snapping turtles in the pond divers were not deployed, officials said. The playground pictured at Bohrer Park Montgomery County Police Lieutenant Kristina Hedgepeth explained with certainty that the search for Hassan was thorough, local NBC4 Washington reported. 'What's underneath, we don't know and how it can affect our instruments and reading signals and things like that,' she said. So I think that's what a lot of it had to do with, not that anyone missed a spot. Everything was gone over very thoroughly.' A parent herself, Hedgepeth urged other parents the importance of staying vigilant. 'It's a tough thing to say to anyone in this situation, but I just know as a parent myself, your head's gotta be on a swivel,' Hedgepeth told the news outlet. 'You have to constantly be watching and it's even harder when you have a child with special needs.' Before Hassan's body was found, officials urged those helping in the search on how to approach a non-verbal autistic child which includes' using visual signals or familiar objects to get their attention.' Police cordoned off the area where the boy's body was found Multiple police units and firefighters went searching for Hassan who went missing on Saturday 'Please call 911 right away. It is important to approach them calmly and slowly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them,' as per a news release. 'Speak in a gentle, reassuring tone, even if the child does not respond verbally. Non-verbal autistic children might not respond to their name. Most importantly, ensure the childs safety and wait for police to arrive.' Officials said no foul play has been suspected in the youngster's death. An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death. A naked bride has fallen 160ft to her death from her apartment on her wedding night. Ksenia Vodyanitskaya, 23, fell from the window in her 15th floor apartment in a residential high-rise which she shared with her groom Konstantin, 24, in the Russian city St Petersburg. She had posted happy wedding pictures of her nuptials just hours before Konstantin alerted emergency services of her fall. The groom was 'distressed' after rushing downstairs to find his bride's body and was subsequently questioned by police. He denied any role in Ksenia's fall, according to reports citing law enforcement. Ksenia Vodyanitskaya (pictured), 23, fell from the window in her 15th floor apartment in a residential high-rise which she shared with her groom Konstantin, 24, in the Russian city St Petersburg Konstantin (left) was 'distressed' after rushing downstairs to find his bride's body and was subsequently questioned by police. He denied any role in Ksenia's fall, according to reports citing law enforcement Ksenia fell from the couple's apartment on the 15th floor of a residential building in St Petersburg (pictured above) The husband was not detained and the initial police assessment is that her tragic death was accidental, although an investigation remains underway. Ksenia had recently graduated from St Petersburg State University of Veterinary Medicine. She was keen on photography, and had started to post pictures of the wedding when she died. She died after the couple returned home after the wedding ceremony and a party at a restaurant in the city. It was attended by close friends and a few relatives. She had posted happy wedding pictures of her nuptials just hours before Konstantin alerted emergency services of her fall Ksenia had recently graduated from St Petersburg State University of Veterinary Medicine Ksenia died after the couple returned home after the wedding ceremony and a party at a restaurant in the city She wore a short white dress while the groom was in a white shirt and beige trousers. 'Friends said the couple had been happy at their wedding,' reported newspaper Moskovsky Komsomolets. 'Testimony from friends and relatives indicate that there were no serious problems in the couple's relationship. 'The young man sincerely loved his bride, and simply could not harm her, the friends of the deceased are certain.' GOP vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance pushed back on critics of his 'childless cat lady' comments claiming those putting him on blast lied about what he said. The 39-year-old Ohio senator appeared on the Fox News show 'Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy' where he doubled down on what he meant. 'If you look at what the left has done, they have radically taken this out of context and, in fact, aggressively lied about what Ive said,' Vance claimed. 'What I do think is true, Trey, and this goes to the heart of what I was talking about three years ago in those comments, but its going to be something I continue to talk about, is that the left has increasingly become explicitly anti-child and anti-family,' he continued. The appearance Sunday night was Vance' latest effort to explain his remarks in a recently resurfaced clip from 2021 that has received fierce criticism from Democrats and prominent women. J.D. Vance appeared on Fox News where he doubled down on his 'childl Back when Vance was running for the Senate, he appeared on Fox News where he told then-host Tucker Carlson the U.S. was being run by 'a bunch of childless cat ladies.' He claimed they were 'miserable at their own lives and the choices that they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable too.' He specifically name-dropped Vice President Kamala Harris, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Pete Buttigieg. 'The entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children,' Vance said. 'How does it make any sense we've turned our country over to people who don't really have a direct stake in it?' On Sunday, Gowdy pointed out to Vance that there have been many leaders without biological children from George Washington to former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. 'So I think you will agree with me that direct offspring are not necessary to be fully invested in the future of this country,' Gowdy said. 'Of course not, Trey. I do think that being a parent actually has a profound effect on somebodys perspective and we should honor and respect that,' Vance said. 'But there are a whole host of people who dont have children for a whole host of reasons. And they certainly are great people who can participate fully in the life of this country.' From there, Vance went on to double-down with his attack on Democrats. 'Theyve encouraged young families not to have children at all because of concerns over climate change,' he claimed. 'Theyve suggested that people who do have children are somehow being selfish when I think being a parent is actually the most selfless thing that you can do, and again, really does transform your perspective,' he said. Vance argued Trump is a 'real defender of parents and families' while going after Democrats in response to criticism over his 2021 'childless cat lady' comment But his criticism of Democrats being 'anti-child and anti-family' comes as Harris and Democrats on the trail have been campaigning on a platform calling for more affordable child care and paid parental leave. Vance has spent several days pushing back on the fallout over his 2021 remarks which have angered women across the country from actress Jennifer Aniston who took to Instagram with a brutal response to thousands of Taylor Swift fans. Last week, Vance taped an episode of The Megyn Kelly Show where he claimed his 'childless cat lady' comment was a 'sarcastic comment.' The GOP vice presidential nominee also went after Democrats on policy in his Kelly interview. He claimed Harris' campaign is against extending the Child Tax Credit. However, that appears to be false. Harris has called for extending the expansion of the Child Tax Credit as it was passed in the American Rescue Plan by Democrats in 2021. Vance reiterated his claim on Gowdy's show on Sunday anyway. 'How did we get to a place where Kamala Harris is calling for an end to the child tax credit? How do we get to a place where we were masking toddlers years into the pandemic? I think its because we radically underrepresent the perspective of parents in our public discourse,' Vance said. Trump's running mate claimed the ex-president is the 'real defender of parents and families.' Over 200 migrants crossed into the UK over the English Channel on Sunday on the same day a woman died off the coast of Calais after falling from an overcrowded dinghy. The woman died during an attempt to reach the UK early on Sunday morning as 255 people in four boats were brought into Dover. People smugglers continued to take advantage of the warm calm conditions today with Border Force vessels Defender and Volunteer were seen ferrying migrants back into the Port of Dover after being intercepted at sea. The group of mainly men were seen wearing orange lifejackets as they were brought into the Port's western docks. Seven migrants have died in the Channel in July alone and the most recent death took the death toll for the year to 23. Over 200 migrants crossed into the UK over the English Channel on Sunday A woman died during an attempt to reach the UK early on Sunday morning A group of people thought to be migrants wade through the sea to clamber aboard a small boat off the beach in Gravelines, France The woman was found unconscious by the French Maritime Prefect after a migrant boat got into difficulty off the coast of Calais. After being taking to a hospital in Boulogne-sur-mer by a French navy helicopter, the woman was pronounced dead. 34 others were rescued by the authorities from the dinghy - though some opted to continue their journey into Britain. A spokesperson for the Prefecture Maritime said: 'The maritime prefect of the Channel and the North Sea warns anyone considering crossing the Channel of the risks involved. 'This maritime sector is one of the busiest areas in the world, with more than 600 merchant ships passing through it per day and the weather conditions are often difficult (120 days of winds greater than or equal to force 7 on an annual average for example), so it is a particularly dangerous sector even when the sea seems calm.' Yesterdays arrivals take the cumulative number so far in 2024 to 16,457, a new record for the first seven months of a calendar year, according to provisional figures from the Home Office. Yesterdays arrivals take the cumulative number so far in 2024 to 16,457, a new record for the first seven months of a calendar year Yesterdays arrivals take the cumulative number so far in 2024 to 16,457, a new record for the first seven months of a calendar year, The previous record for arrivals in the seven months from January to July was 16,420 in 2022. There were 14,732 arrivals in the first seven months of 2023. Monthly data comes from the most recent Home Office quarterly update on irregular migration to the UK, which presents the 'final and authoritative statistics on small boat arrivals'. There were 29,437 arrivals across the whole of 2023, down 36% on a record 45,774 arrivals in 2022. The surge in arrivals was debated in parliament today with Reform UK's Lee Anderson accusing France of being 'complicit' in small boat crossings. Speaking at Home Office questions, Mr Anderson (Ashfield) told the Commons: 'Six boats came over the Channel on Saturday, there's been reports of another four today - that's over 500 illegal migrants being escorted into our waters by the French authorities. 'Does the Home Secretary agree with me it's time now to stop paying the French any more money until they stop being complicit in this evil trade?' Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 'These boat crossings are extremely dangerous and a woman died in the Channel again yesterday, and criminal gangs are deliberately cramming boats to maximise their profits, and they have been getting away with it for far too long. 'That is why we need a new border security command in place, but it is also why we need to work not simply with the French police but also with police forces and organisations right across Europe, and beyond, in order to pursue the gangs and to prevent the boats reaching the French coast in the first place.' Scotland's railway network could be plunged into yet more chaos as another union threatens to walkout. Hundreds of ScotRail workers could strike in September unless they win a credible pay deal. Unite, which represents 300 workers at the state-owned operator, has become the third union to announce a strike ballot in the pay row. Aslef and RMT have recently announced they will be balloting their ScotRail staff. Bosses have already been forced to introduce a temporary timetable on the network because of the dispute - slashing hundreds of services a day to provide greater certainty and reliability for passengers. Temporary timetables are in use as drivers have refused to work overtime amid the dispute It came after a rise in drivers refusing to work overtime and on their rest day, a practice the network relies on, with more than a quarter of services being taken off the schedule as a result. Unite yesterday said it was full steam ahead over its plans for industrial action as it threatened autumn chaos. If members back strike action it would follow from a threatened summer of misery across the country with bin workers set to walkout as part of their own pay dispute. Finance Secretary Shona Robison is set to meet unions with council umbrella group Cosla tomorrow in crunch talks to try avert the strikes which would leave rubbish mountains across Scotland. On the railways Unites members, including train cleaners, engineers, ticket agents, hospitality assistants and conductors, will be balloted between Wednesday and August 20. Sharon Graham, Unites general secretary, yesterday (MON) insisted they had no option but to ballot members. She said: Disgracefully, ScotRail has not even made a formal pay offer let alone a fair one for our members. Unites members are essential to keeping the trains running yet many of them struggle to survive financially as they dont earn huge sums of money. Nicola Sturgeon brought ScotRail under government ownership in April 2022, a move which was welcomed by trade unions who blasted the privatised network as a failed experiment. But since then ScotRail has hiked its fares twice, once by 4.8 per cent in July 2023 and then again in April this year when they went up a further 8.7 per cent. ScotRails last pay dispute was two years ago when evening trains on many routes terminated hours early after drivers decided not to work overtime. As part of latest negotiations it is understood ScotRail offered Unite, and the other trade unions, a cumulative 9.3 per cent rise over three years. Scotland's rail workers are threatening to strike amid the looming prospect of a strike by council bin men Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon nationalised rail operator ScotRail in 2022 But this was rejected by all unions involved in the dispute. Unite said it was a verbal pay offer, not a formal one, and would have seen workers receive a two per cent rise backdated to April and then a one per cent rise from January. This pay rise pattern would have been repeated the following two financial years. Pat McIlvogue, Unite industrial officer, said: The Scottish Government, who are the ultimate paymasters, and ScotRail need to get their heads together and quickly. There is still a window of opportunity to resolve this dispute through negotiation. If they fail to grasp this chance, then it will be full steam ahead towards autumn strike action. Unites negotiation process is separate from the drivers pay and bargaining process. Phil Campbell, ScotRails customer operations director, said the company was keen to resolve this dispute and remain committed to continuing discussions with our trade union colleagues. He added: We recognise the hard work of our colleagues and the cost-of-living challenges faced by families across the country and hope that we can come to an agreement on pay which reflects this, as well as providing value for money for taxpayers. A Transport Scotland spokesman said pay negotiations were for ScotRail, who were the employer. He added: Train planning and staff rotas are operational matters for ScotRail. However, we fully expect any timetable to give the best reliability and availability for passengers and that changes are communicated well in advance to enable effective journey planning. Although the Scottish Government is not at the negotiating table, Ministers are being kept informed of progress. Kay Wenal was brutally murdered in her Georgia home 16 years ago and despite multiple probes by police and private investigators, her case remains unsolved. Kay, 60, was found dead on May 1, 2008 in the kitchen of the rented home she shared with her husband Harold 'Hal' Wenal, a prominent real estate developer, in suburban Atlanta. The model had been punched in the face and chased through her kitchen, before being slashed in the throat twice with an 'extremely sharp' instrument, such as a 'scalpel', detectives have said. Crime scene investigators found little to no evidence at the home even though there had been a 'lot of blood' shed at the scene. No fingerprints, footprints, defensive wounds, hairs or fibers were found at the property and all of the blood tested had belong to Kay, CBS News reported. A note written using cut-out letters from magazines was mailed to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Norcross office in the months after she was found dead. The letter was turned over to police and examined by the crime lab, but no DNA or forensics were discovered. Similarly, a man was seen in wandering the neighborhood the day Kay was murdered and on the afternoon of her death. A sketch of the suspect was widely distributed but still police have not been able to identify the stranger. Kay Wenal, 60, (pictured) was found dead on May 1, 2008 in the kitchen of the rented Lawrenceville, Georgia home that she shared with her husband Harold 'Hal' Wenal The model had been punched in the face and chased through her kitchen, before being slashed in the throat twice with an 'extremely sharp' instrument, such as a 'scalpel' Hal came home to the upscale neighborhood of Sugarloaf Springs in Gwinnett County to find his wife dead in a pool of blood with her throat slit. The officer who responded to his panicked 911 call arrived to find him 'laid down beside his wife, begging us to help,' said the police report. With no signs of forced entry and no theft from the property, police at first turned their attention to Hal. However, police were unable to find any obvious motive and he was cleared after three weeks of investigations. Neither Hal nor Kay appeared to have been involved in extramarital affairs and their family and friends told investigators the pair were a happy couple. Furthermore, grief-stricken Hal was determined to find his wife's killer. He hired his own team of private investigators to probe the case and put up a $250,000 reward. He also had an ironclad alibi for the time of murder. Although there is little evidence in the case, detectives believe that Kay was murdered by a man whom she probably knew. Kay was meant to be at work the day of her slaying, but changed her mind after deciding she did not feel well. John Insogna, a retired FBI agent who investigated the case, told CBS 48 Hours that 'whoever did this knew she was home' and entered the property without force. Neither Hal nor Kay (pictured together) appeared to have been involved in extramarital affairs and their family and friends told investigators the pair were a happy couple A note (pictured) written using cut-out letters from magazines was mailed to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Norcross office in the months after she was found dead. The letter was turned over to police and examined by the crime lab, but no DNA or forensics were discovered A police artist drew a sketch (left) of a man was seen in wandering the neighborhood the day Kay was murdered and on the afternoon of her death. The man in the sketch resembled an individual (right) that Kay had been photographed with in Las Vegas years earlier 'Nobody saw him coming in,' Insogna said. 'Nobody saw him leave.' He suspects that Kay let the killer into the home and was immediately assaulted at the front door by someone who was right-handed and wearing 'rubber gloves', as evidenced by pieces of latex gloves that were found inside the home and on the back deck. Kay's attacker likely 'hit her with a very, very powerful blow back that stunned her', investigators have claimed. They believe she tried to escape through the kitchen, but before she could seek help, the assailant took control of her. He slashed her throat once and then again - in what detective Ned Timmons referred to as an 'insurance cut' - to 'make sure that she was gonna die' and then fled the scene. A towel with smudges of her blood was also found in her closet off the master bedroom, leading detectives to believe that the attacker may have taken 'one final trophy'. They also believe that he escaped through the woods behind the Wenal family's residence. 'The impressions that I got were that someone was very comfortable in that home, knew their way around that home,' investigator Kathleen Timmons told the TV program of Kay's killer. 'This person has no concern that anyone is going to walk in and catch him. And then walks out the back door and departs.' She added: 'He clearly knew where he was going, too, when he left - that takes an awful lot of prior planning.' Investigators suspect Kay let her killer into the home (pictured) and was immediately assaulted at the front door by someone who was right-handed and wearing 'rubber gloves'. The attacker then slashed her throat twice in the kitchen The team allegedly found 'unusual', 'kinky' and 'almost perverted' materials in the home that they have described as 'fetish wear.' Hal, who admitted the couple went to a masquerade party where 'she dressed like a French maid', (pictured) said he did not know anything about his wife's so-called fetish attire Investigators believe Kay's glasses (pictured) were sent flying after her attacker punched her in the face. The assailant likely 'hit her with a very, very powerful blow back that stunned her' Although Hal was the initial suspect in Kay's death, investigators do not think he was involved in her murder. They do believe a stranger who was seen walking through the neighborhood, which neighbors say is not a walking-friendly area, the day before and day of her death. The seemingly car-less stranger had been carrying a flyer advertising a for-sale home in the subdivision and asked for directions to the property. The same man was then seen again, walking towards the Wenal house, around the suspected time of Kay's killing. A police artist worked with the witness to create a sketch of the suspect. The man in the sketch resembled an individual that Kay had been pictured with in Las Vegas years earlier. But police 'never could identify' the man in the photographer and 'nobody seemed to know who he was', the investigative team recalled. Officials were also presented with another puzzling clue after a local newspaper received an expletive-filled letter that seemed to imply Kay had been intimate with someone other than her husband. Police believe Kay had been chased through the home before the attacker slashed her throat twice in the kitchen, (pictured) where she was found dead in a pool of her own blood. They suspect he fled the scene through the woods behind the property Police do not suspect that Kay's murder was a robbery as her wallet, credit cards and expensive jewelry, like the pieces pictured above, were found in the home Crime scene investigators found little to no evidence at the home even though there had been a 'lot of blood' shed at the scene. They did find pieces of latex gloves (pictured) inside the home and on the back deck No fingerprints, footprints, defensive wounds, hairs or fibers were found at the property and all of the blood tested had belong to Kay. Pictured is blood on the hallway floor The author alleged that Kay was miserable in her marriage and home, and 'said we could be together' but ultimately decided to stay with Hal. Some investigators believe the letter was penned by a 'spurned lover' but others suspect it was sent as a 'red herring' - to distract from the case. Former FBI profiler Mary Ellen O'Toole called the note 'scripted' and said it looks like 'what the author thinks threat letters should look like'. She added: 'This is someone I think that's pretending to be the killer - to create this boogeyman suspect and to push the police away from the actual motive in the case.' O'Toole further argued that a spurned lover would have written several notes about Kay, including ones praising her, before branding her a 'horrible' human being that he hated. 'Even if it's a delusional stalker, initially they love their victims. They're beautiful. They're gonna spend their life together. It's only after a few letters that you see that transition,' she told the program. Investigators did not find any evidence that Kay was having an affair, but do think she had some sort of 'secret life' that Insogna believes holds the answer to her murder. The team allegedly found 'unusual', 'kinky' and 'almost perverted' materials in the home that they have described as 'fetish wear.' Kay Wenal was killed in her own home in May 2008 and her murderer has never been found Hal, who admitted the couple went to a masquerade party where 'she dressed like a French maid', said he did not know anything about his wife's so-called fetish attire. 'These outfits were not something a French maid would wear,' Insogna said. 'And if she's not wearin' them for Hal, then who's she wearin' 'em for?' The team is convinced that Hal knew about Kay's 'secret life' and was involved in some way. Hal died of a heart attack in June 2010 at the age of 74 and he was buried next to his wife. His estate cut off the reward and his team of private investigators were fired. The case remains unsolved today. Anyone with information about Kay's murder is asked to contact the Gwinnett County Criminal Investigation Division Anonymous tip line at 1-770-513-5390 or Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 1-404-577-8477. Intense video captured the moment a California man was reunited with his cat after firefighters rescued his beloved pet from a blazing house fire. Isaac Vaizman came home Thursday to see his house on Topham Street just off Lyndley Avenue in Tarzana engulfed in flames. He pleaded with members of the Los Angeles Fire Department to save his 14-year-old cat named Cheetah who was trapped inside. After anxiously waiting along the fence, a firefighter heroically emerged from the burning structure and handed Cheetah to her owner who cried tears of joy as he cooled the gasping cat off with water. 'I tried to run in and they stopped me. It's like losing your kid. Same thing. She is my kid,' Vaizman told NBC Los Angeles. Isaac Vaizman fell to his knees and cooled of his panting cat Cheetah after firefighters rescued her from his burning home Vaizman came home Thursday to see his house on Topham Street just off Lyndley Avenue in Tarzana engulfed in flames 'After my divorce, my daughter asked me to keep [Cheetah] and I promised to do it. So I still have my cat but not my kids. The cat is alive and that's what's most important.' Video of the fire showed flames roaring out of the roof and crews battling the blaze as Vaizman shouted for help. 'My cat, my cat's in the room, please get my cat out,' he said. Vaizman paced the perimeter of the 900 square foot home he had moved into earlier in July. A member of the Los Angeles Fire Department heroically emerged from the burning structure and handed Cheetah to her owner Vaizman said he adopted Cheetah with his daughter and he promised to look after the 14-year-old cat after he divorced from his wife About five minutes later the firefighter handed the man his pet and he fell to his knees cradling the animal - who was panting. After cooling Cheetah off with a plate of water brought over by a neighbor, Vaizman took the cat to an emergency veterinarian center. Cheetah appears to be doing well and is headed back for a check up on Tuesday. Vaizman shared a video of the cat scooping out the damage to their home on Instagram. A friend of Vaizman set up a GoFundMe in his honoring sharing that the man had just moved into the house. Vaizman (pictured) said losing his cat would have been the same thing as losing a child and all that matters now is that Cheetah is safe Vaizman shared a video of the cat scooping out the damage to their home and is taking her back to the veterinarian on Tuesday 'All he cared about was for the firefighters to rescue the cat that him and his daughter adopted together. He has lost everything but the cat,' the fundraiser said. Cheetah connects Vaizman to his daughter who he promised he would take care of the cat after he divorced from his wife. A team of 38 firefighters put out the flames that engulfed a room and the attic in 19 minutes. The cause of the fire is under investigation and no injuries were reported. Republicans are skewering President Joe Biden's plan to fundamentally reshape the Supreme Court, calling the attempt an unconstitutional and dangerous gambit to force progressive policies. The president called for sweeping reforms to the Supreme Court, including term limits, a binding code of conduct for its nine justices and a constitutional amendment that would limit presidential immunity in an op-ed for the Washington Post. Biden cited 'recent ethics scandals' involving justices and high court rulings in his call on Congress to pass three major reforms to 'restore trust and accountability' in America's democratic institutions. But Republicans are calling that move a 'radical' and 'dangerous gambit' that will never pass through Congress because it is 'unconstitutional.' 'Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are trying to destroy the independence of the Supreme Court because they can't control it,' Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee, an attorney, exclusively told DailyMail.com. President Joe Biden released an opinion piece in the Washington Post Monday outlining his vision to restructure the Supreme Court, saying that 'recent ethical scandals' have rocked public opinion in the third branch of government and now the judiciary must undergo major constitutional reform. Republicans, however, are calling that reasoning malarky 'Democrats are now openly discussing 'court packing' because the Justices are stopping their unconstitutional schemes,' his statement continued. 'We cannot allow them to strong arm the judicial branch into becoming a rubber stamp for extreme progressive causes.' House Speaker Mike Johnson also ripped apart Biden's idea in a statement Monday, saying: 'This dangerous gambit of the Biden-Harris Administration is dead on arrival in the House.' 'President Biden's proposal to radically overhaul the U.S. Supreme Court would tilt the balance of power and erode not only the rule of law, but the American people's faith in our system of justice,' the Louisiana Republican said. 'This proposal is the logical conclusion to the Biden-Harris Administration and Congressional Democrats' ongoing efforts to delegitimize the Supreme Court.' 'It is telling that Democrats want to change the system that has guided our nation since its founding simply because they disagree with some of the Court's recent decisions.' Longtime conservative legal activist and former Federalist Society executive Leonard Leo called the president's plan 'a campaign to destroy a court that they disagree with.' 'No conservative justice has made any decision in any big case that surprised anyone, so lets stop pretending this is about undue influence. Its about Democrats destroying a court they dont agree with,' he wrote in a statement. 'If President Biden and the Democrats were truly serious about ethics reform, then they would ban all gifts and hospitality of any kind to any public official in any branch of government, starting with Congress, where the real corruption is,' Leo added. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, called President Joe Biden's plan to alter the court an 'unconstitutional' plan to force the judicial branch into forwarding 'extreme progressive causes' Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson called Biden's plan radical and said it threaten's American's trust in the legal system The White House on Monday detailed the contours of Biden's court proposal, noting how the Democrat believes 'no one - neither the President nor the Supreme Court - is above the law.' The president will officially propose the changes during a speech Monday in Austin, Texas, however his proposals appears to have little chance of being approved by a deeply-divided Congress with just 99 days to go before Election Day. Regardless, Democrats hope Biden's proposal will help to focus voters as they consider their choices in the tight presidential election. Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has sought to frame her race against Republican former President Donald Trump as 'a choice between freedom and chaos.' Biden seemingly slammed the high court as he argued that America is facing a 'crisis of confidence' in the its democratic systems. 'This nation was founded on a simple yet profound principle: No one is above the law. Not the president of the United States. Not a justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. No one,' Biden penned in his op-ed. President Joe Biden (pictured July 7) is unveiling a long-awaited proposal for changes at the U.S. Supreme Court, calling on Congress to establish term limits and an ethics code for the court's nine justices. He also is pressing lawmakers to ratify a constitutional amendment that would limit presidential immunity United States Supreme Court (front row L-R) Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, John Roberts, Samuel Alito, and Elena Kagan, (back row L-R) Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Ketanji Brown Jackson He added: 'I have great respect for our institutions and separation of powers. What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public's confidence in the court's decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms. We now stand in a breach.' 'Joe Biden will announce a plan for term limits on Supreme Court justices this week. In other words, a career politician wants to set term limits on another branch of government because the Court hasn't ruled in his favor. The irony!' Republican Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas posted on X Monday in response. Biden is calling for doing away with lifetime appointments to the court. He says Congress should pass legislation to establish a system in which the sitting president would appoint a justice every two years to spend 18 years in service on the court. He argues term limits would help ensure that court membership changes with some regularity and adds a measure of predictability to the nomination process. He also wants Congress to pass legislation establishing a code of ethics for justices that would require justices to disclose gifts, refrain from public political activity and recuse themselves from cases in which they or their spouses have financial or other conflicts of interest. Biden has also urged Congress to pass a constitutional amendment reversing the Supreme Court's recent landmark immunity ruling that determined former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution. It comes after the Supreme Court ruled in July that Trump cannot be prosecuted for actions that were within his constitutional powers as president in a landmark decision recognizing for the first time any form of presidential immunity from prosecution. The decision extended the delay in the Washington criminal case against Trump on charges he plotted to overturn his 2020 presidential election loss and all but ended prospects the former president could be tried before the November election. Biden's push for reforms comes a week after Biden ended his reelection bid and endorsed Harris to square off against Republican presidential candidate Trump in November. It also follows the Supreme Court's ruling that there is no Constitutional right to abortion and other decisions that blocked Biden's agenda on immigration, student loans, vaccine mandates and climate change. Although the proposal is unlikely to pass, Democrats hope it will help to focus voters as they consider their choices in the tight presidential election. Vice President Kamala Harris, (pictured during a campaign event on Saturday) the presumptive Democratic nominee, has sought to frame her race against Republican former President Donald Trump as 'a choice between freedom and chaos' It comes after the Supreme Court ruled in July that former President Donald Trump (pictured at a campaign event on Saturday) cannot be prosecuted for actions that were within his constitutional powers as president in a landmark decision recognizing for the first time any form of presidential immunity from prosecution Unlike other members of the federal judiciary, the Supreme Court's life-tenured justices have no binding ethics code of conduct. They are subject to disclosure laws requiring them to report outside income and certain gifts, though food and other 'personal hospitality' such as lodging at an individual's residence is generally exempted. The Court in November adopted its first code of conduct after revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas accepting undisclosed travel from a wealthy benefactor. There were also reports this year that flags associated with then-President Trump's attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss flew outside Justice Samuel Alito's homes in Virginia and New Jersey. Critics say the code of conduct does not go far enough since it allows justices to decide for themselves whether to recuse from cases and provides no enforcement mechanism. What changes has Biden called for in his SCOTUS reform proposal? President Joe Biden has urged Congress to pass urgent reforms to the conservative-dominated Supreme Court, in a bold but long-shot move. He is calling for the following changes: No immunity for crimes a former president committed while in office Term limits for SCOTUS justices Binding code of conduct for the Supreme Court Biden argues the proposed changes will 'strengthen American democracy' and 'protect the rule of law'. Advertisement The last time Congress ratified an amendment to the Constitution was 32 years ago. The 27th Amendment, ratified in 1992, states that Congress can pass a bill changing the pay for members of the House and Senate, but such a change can't take effect until after the next November elections are held for the House. Trump has decried court reform as a desperate attempt by Democrats to 'Play the Ref.' 'The Democrats are attempting to interfere in the Presidential Election, and destroy our Justice System, by attacking their Political Opponent, ME, and our Honorable Supreme Court. We have to fight for our Fair and Independent Courts, and protect our Country,' Trump posted on his Truth Social site earlier this month. There have been increasing questions surrounding the ethics of the court after revelations about some of the justices, including that Clarence Thomas accepted luxury trips from a GOP megadonor. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who was appointed during the Obama administration, has faced scrutiny after it surfaced that her staff often prodded public institutions that hosted her to buy copies of her memoir or children's books. Justice Samuel Alito rejected calls to step aside from Supreme Court cases involving Trump and Jan. 6 defendants despite a flap over provocative flags displayed at his home that some believe suggested sympathy to people facing charges over storming the US Capitol to keep Trump in power. Alito says the flags were displayed by his wife. Trump, at the time, congratulated Alito on his social media site for 'showing the INTELLIGENCE, COURAGE, and 'GUTS'' in refusing to step aside. 'All US Judges, Justices, and Leaders should have such GRIT.' Democrats say the Biden effort will help put a bright spotlight on recent high court decisions, including the 2022 ruling stripping away women's constitutional protections for abortion, by the conservative-majority court that includes three justices appointed by Trump. Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts said in a Sunday interview with CNN's State of the Union that Biden's reform push is about reminding Americans that 'when they vote in November, the Supreme Court is on the ballot.' She added: 'That is a good reason to vote for Kamala Harris and to vote for Democrats in both the Senate and the House.' Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina pushed back that Democrats didn't complain when a more liberal-leaning court 'was pumping out opinions they liked.' 'Only when we brought constitutional balance back from having a conservative court was the court a threat to the country,' Graham said Sunday on CBS' Face the Nation. 'What's been a threat to the country is an out-of-control liberal court issuing opinions that basically take over every phase of American life based on nine people's judgment.' A security guard walks down the steps of the US Supreme Court in DC on July 19, 2024 The announcement marks a remarkable evolution for Biden, who as a candidate had been wary of calls to reform the high court. But over the course of his presidency, he has become increasingly vocal about his belief that the court has abandoned mainstream constitutional interpretation. Last week, he announced during an Oval Office speech that he would pursue Supreme Court reform during his final months in office, calling it 'critical to our democracy.' Harris, in her unsuccessful bid for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, had expressed being open to a conversation about expanding the nine-member court. The proposals unveiled on Monday do not include such an effort, which is something Biden as a candidate viewed skeptically. As a vice presidential candidate, Harris notably dodged questions about her earlier stance on the issue during her October 2020 debate with Vice President Mike Pence. The Harris campaign and aides to the vice president did not respond to queries about Harris' involvement in shaping the Biden proposal and whether she would pursue any other court reform efforts should she be elected. The White House in a statement said, 'Biden and Vice President Harris look forward to working with Congress and empowering the American people to prevent the abuse of Presidential power, restore faith in the Supreme Court, and strengthen the guardrails of democracy.' A British teenage boy has died in Amsterdam after falling from a boat while sailing with his friends. The boy, who was reportedly not a strong swimmer, was pulled from the water of the Buiten-IJ river on Sunday afternoon after the fire brigade, police, and Coast Guard dashed to the scene. Three fire brigade diving teams entered the water after the boy had disappeared at around 3:30pm, as trauma helicopters hovered overhead. Rescuers located him just under an hour after he was reported missing and rushed him to hospital in critical condition. He tragically died while in hospital, police told local media. Police and ambulance services rushed to the Buiten-IJ in Amsterdam on Sunday after a British boy, 14, fell off a boat and drowned in front of his friends Pictured: Church and houses on dike of Durgerdam village from Buiten IJ river near Amsterdam, Netherlands The police are currently investigating the incident but are reportedly treating it as a fatal accident. According to the NL Times, this was the second child drowning to occur in the Netherlands on Sunday after a two-year-old girl died after falling into the lake in the Park van Luna in Heerhugowaard. A bystander noticed the toddler lying motionless in the water at around 5pm and carried her to the side where onlookers performed resuscitation attempts as they waited for emergency services to arrive. First responders, including a trauma team via helicopter, tried to resuscitate the young girl once they arrived at the scene, but to no avail. She died a short while later, with police still investigating how she ended up in the water. It comes after another teenager drowned in front of friends while taking selfies at the top of a waterfall in Myanmar. Moe Sa Nay, 14, was posing for snaps with her friends to share with her 150,000 social media followers when she slipped on the wet stones at the Sinywa Waterfall in on July 22. Unable to free herself, Nay drowned as the water crashed around her at the popular tourist destination in the town of Paung in Mon state. Volunteers and firefighters battled to dislodge the lifeless girl's body from the rocks the following morning, on July 23. They were spotted tying her hands with rope and yanking her out of the narrow gap. This is a breaking news story. More to follow. A woman with severe ME ended her life by assisted suicide with her husband and two sons by her side after moving back from the UK to her native Netherlands. Edina Slayter-Engelsman, 57, went to Holland where euthanasia and assisted suicide have been legal since 2001, and doctors gave her a lethal injection earlier this year. The Dutch national, who used to live in Aberdeenshire, was a keen hillwalker, cyclist and swimmer until she started experiencing symptoms of extreme tiredness. Mrs Slayter-Engelsman had myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), which affects at least 250,000 people in the UK. She found she could not even leave her bed to shower or use the bathroom, and became bedbound weeks after being diagnosed with the condition in 2020. Edina Slayter-Engelsman was a keen hillwalker, cyclist and swimmer until her symptoms began She had lived in Scotland for 30 years and after moving back to Holland, she insisted that ending her life would provide an 'off ramp' from her 'unbearable suffering'. What are the four main symptoms of ME? Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also called chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), is a long-term condition that can affect different parts of the body but most commonly causes extreme tiredness. The four main symptoms are feeling extremely tired all the time; sleep problems including insomnia; problems with thinking, concentration and memory; and symptoms getting worse after physical or mental activity. The NHS advises that some people with ME also sometimes have pain in different parts of the body or flu-like symptoms, such as high temperature, headache and aching joints or muscles. There is no specific test for ME and it can only be diagnosed based on someone's symptoms and by ruling out other conditions that could be causing these. There is no cure for ME, but treatments can help reduce symptoms such as energy management; cognitive behavioural therapy; and medicine to control symptoms such as pain and sleeping problems. People with ME have to adapt their daily routine and pattern of activities on a long-term basis, and there can be periods when symptoms get better or worse. Advertisement In one of a series of messages recorded before her death, she compared her life to being stuck in a spider's web, saying: 'Every time you try to get out, the web just gets tighter and tighter around you.' According to a BBC Scotland report, Mrs Slayter-Engelsman added: 'This disease has taken everything from me. I feel trapped physically, cognitively and emotionally. 'I exist but I don't live and this condition has become unbearable to me and has been for a long time now, to the point where I want to end my life.' 'I have not been able to read books, or watch telly - everything is too much.' In another of her final messages, Mrs Slayter-Engelsman said: 'There are a lot of people like me, they don't get seen, they don't get heard because they can't. 'They are stuck at home, often in their bedroom. There is no help but there should be.' She moved to the Netherlands in 2023 and had a year of psychological and psychiatric assessments, as well as being assessment by Amsterdam's institute of chronic fatigue. But a conclusion was reached that there were no other treatment options for her, and she therefore was allowed to end her suffering with a doctor giving her a lethal injection. This followed laws in the Netherlands on assisted dying, which allows voluntary euthanasia for patients experiencing 'unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement'. This element is a recent expansion to Dutch laws on assisted dying which have existed since 2001. A Scottish government spokesman told MailOnline: 'We recognise how distressing and debilitating severe ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) can be and want to make sure people can access the care and support they need to manage their condition. 'The latest NICE guidance includes clear and specific recommendations regarding the care of people with severe ME/CFS. Service provision is the responsibility of NHS boards and we expect all boards to provide care that is person-centred, effective and safe. Edina Slayter-Engelsman was given a lethal injection by doctors in Holland earlier this year 'We are currently updating health board data on ME/CFS care in Scotland with the aim of identifying areas where there is potential to progress service development.' Last week an Assisted Dying Bill was officially introduced in the House of Lords. Could assisted dying be legalised in the UK? The prospect of legalising assisted death in the UK has increasingly been in the spotlight in the past year, with moves being made elsewhere in the British Isles, and the revelation from cancer-stricken TV star Dame Esther Rantzen that she has joined Dignitas. Assisting someone to end their life is currently a criminal offence in England and Wales. Various moves towards a change in the law have been taking place in Scotland, on the Isle of Man and Jersey, with strong arguments from people on both sides. Critics argue that legalisation could put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a burden on others and that the disabled, elderly, sick or depressed could be especially at risk, but supporters say it would allow people to die with dignity. Last week an Assisted Dying Bill was officially introduced in the House of Lords. Lord Falconer's Bill would allow terminally ill adults with six months or under left to live to end their lives, and the peer has stressed that it would have strong safeguards, including that the person has to be mentally able to make the decision, two doctors would have to approve it and it must have High Court approval. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has committed to allowing a free vote on assisted dying, but has declined to put a timetable on it. An emotional debate in Westminster Hall earlier this year saw MPs from across the political spectrum give impassioned speeches for and against changing the law. Advertisement The prospect of legalising assisted death has increasingly been in the spotlight in the past year, with moves being made elsewhere in the British Isles, and the revelation from cancer-stricken TV star Dame Esther Rantzen that she has joined Dignitas. Former Labour justice secretary Lord Falconer of Thoroton's private member's bill - the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill - is expected to be debated in mid-November. It is possible a private member's bill on assisted dying could be chosen for debate in the Commons, when a ballot takes place in September. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the time for debate on the divisive issue has come, but admitted he is 'uncharacteristically undecided' on the topic. Lord Falconer's Bill would allow terminally ill adults with six months or under left to live to end their lives, and the peer has stressed that it would have strong safeguards, including that the person has to be mentally able to make the decision, two doctors would have to approve it and it must have High Court approval. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has committed to allowing a free vote on assisted dying, but has declined to put a timetable on it. Assisting someone to end their life is currently a criminal offence in England and Wales. An emotional debate in Westminster Hall earlier this year saw MPs from across the political spectrum give impassioned speeches for and against changing the law. Various moves towards a change in the law have also been taking place in Scotland, on the Isle of Man and Jersey, with strong arguments from people on both sides. Critics argue that legalisation could put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a burden on others and that the disabled, elderly, sick or depressed could be especially at risk, but supporters say it would allow people to die with dignity. In one case last week, an inquest heard that a senior doctor pleaded with a young woman suffering from severe ME to remain in hospital rather than go home. Maeve Boothby-O'Neill, 27, had suffered with ME for a decade and was being treated at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital before she died at home in October 2021. Edina Slayter-Engelsman said ending her life would provide an 'off ramp' from her suffering An inquest in Exeter heard last Friday that Miss Boothby-O'Neill had been admitted to the hospital three times that year for treatment for malnutrition. It was during her second admission, between May and June, that she told doctors she wished to be discharged and to continue treatment at home in Exeter. The hearing is focusing on the last few months of Miss Boothby-O'Neill's life by which time she was confined to bed, unable to chew food and had difficulty drinking because she was not able to sit up. Dr Kashyap Patel, a consultant in diabetes and endocrinology, told the hearing he had tried to persuade Miss Boothby-O'Neill to remain on his ward but, as she had mental capacity, he could not stop her leaving. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123, or visit a local Samaritans branch. See samaritans.org A bodybuilder who brutally murdered his partner in front of her young daughter has appealed to have his sentence reduced, sparking outrage from her friends and loved ones. Sven Lindemann was recently jailed for 31 years, with a non-parole period of 25 over the frenzied six-knife stabbing of his partner Monique Lezsak, 39, after she attempted to end their relationship. Lindemann brutally stabbed his ex-partner 17 times on her head, neck and chest in their Endeavour Hills home in Melbourne's south-east in May last year. He later pleaded guilty to his partner's murder, as well as recklessly injuring her 10-year-old daughter, who was found covered in her mother's blood after intervening in the horrific attack. Two months after he was sentenced, Lindemann's appeal has been formally lodged with the Supreme Court and is expected to be heard next year. It means that the horrific case will heard by a full panel of judges at the Court of Appeal. Ms Lezsak's best friend Jacqueline Schwarcz admitted to Nine News that she 'laughed' when she first heard the news because she thought it was joke, She also recalled the devastating impact it has had on the lives who knew and loved Ms Lezsak. Sven Lindemann pleaded guilty to the murder of his partner Monique Lezsak (pictured) 'Without sounding too dramatic, it's ruined our lives, things have changed overnight,' Ms Schwarcz said. 'I cannot even understand how a human being can be wired like this.' Ms Schwarcz had this scathing message for Lindemann, who has already spent a year behind bars. 'We know that youre not remorseful, we know that you have no regrets, and thats fine, well see how it plays out for you,' she said. 'Because he is narcissistic, it wouldn't surprise me that these (his appeal) are just actions to keep him in the spotlight. While Lindemann avoided the maximum penalty of a life sentence, Justice Elizabeth Hollingworth said Lindemann had committed a 'brutal, frenzied attack,' adding that domestic homicide was 'not a less serious category of murder because of the pre-existing relationship'. She said it was 'sheer luck' that her daughter was not seriously injured, adding that Lindemann failed in his duty as a stepfather to protect the little girl and her twin brother from harm by subjecting them to a terrifying ordeal. Justice Hollingworth said Lindemann had committed a 'rational act,' which was motivated by jealousy, and an 'unwillingness to allow your partner to move on with her life'. In May, Sven Lindemann (pictured) was jailed for 31 years, with a non-parole period of 25 years over the frenzied six-knife stabbing of his partner Monique Lezsak, 39. He is appealing the sentence She noted his 'hypocrisy and sense of entitlement,' that caused him to become 'enraged' by the thought Ms Lezsak 'might choose to leave you and start a relationship with someone she'd recently met'. This is despite the fact that he had previously cheated on his ex-wife. However Justice Hollingworth accepted there was 'no evidence' his attack was premeditated, and she accepted it was a relatively spontaneous act. Justice Hollingworth also acknowledged 'bravery' of Ms Lezsak's young daughter and commended her attempts to save her mum. 'Hopefully as she grows up, she will come to understand that there was nothing more she could have done to save her mother who would have been so very proud of his courage and determination,' she said. Prior to adjourning the case for sentencing, Justice Hollingworth said Lindemann had committed the 'terrible' act after a day of 'seething'. 'He was so angry he dragged her through the house, he grabbed six different knives and was able to break two of them in the process,' she said. 'He was not deterred by a 10-year-old girl trying to stop him ... He was out of control, ferocious and determined to kill her.' Sven Lindemann's appeal to have his sentenced reduced will be heard next year Monique Lezsak's best friend Jacqueline Schwarcz admitted that she 'laughed' when she first heard the news about Lindemann's appeal as she thought it was a joke Justice Hollingworth also admonished the bodybuilder for wailing in court, demanding he 'stop the crocodile tears'. 'It's not remotely persuasive. It's a bit late for him to pretend he's remorseful,' she said. 'The evidence is completely to the contrary. He still maintains she ruined his life, he doesn't accept that he killed her and ruined his own life.' Taking into account time already served, Lindemann will be eligible for parole in 2048. A charismatic pastor who 'mesmerized' family and followers alike told his ex-wife she had 'won' as he shot himself dead, days after she revealed his lifetime of lies to the world. 'Doctor' Justin Meier, 43, left a suicide note telling Laura Mahoney she had 'completely destroyed' him after she set up a Facebook page exposing his bogus qualifications, sexual predation and investigations for child sex abuse. 'While you are peddling some of these lies for your mom. I don't blame you,' he told his children who had revealed his sexual abuse of them. 'You win!!' he told Mahoney. 'You are evil, and Karma will get you.' Pastor Justin Meier 'mesmerized' the town of Richmond Missouri where he served as a council member and head of the chamber of commerce, his daughter said Meier with then wife Laura Beth Mahoney, who he denounced as evil before taking his life when she exposed him as a fraud and an abuser Meier had dragged his young family across more than a dozen states in the 20 years of his marriage through a series of short-lived jobs with a series of churches and denominations. Along the way he falsely claimed to have become a licensed therapist and began counselling vulnerable women he met through his church work. He painted himself as a progressive man of God and once wore a rainbow colored pro-LGBT sweater. 'If he was talking to you, he'd make you feel like the most special person in the world,' said Brandi Brash Pangborn who was working in the office at Grace Church in Richmond, Missouri. Meier offered his counselling as she struggled to deal with the death of her mother in 2018. 'He starts with like, 'You know, I'm a pastor here. And this is not anything I should ever say, but, like, I've just always been in love with you',' Pangborn told the Kansas City Star. 'And then he just kisses me. He goes, 'I just couldn't help myself. We've been such good friends forever. And I'm just so sorry you're going through all this. I just love you and really, really care about you'. 'I guess you would call it love bombing.' Meier eventually moved in with Pangborn but continued seducing other clients, destroying a series of marriages in the process. 'Probably, in a year and a half, at least five,' Pangborn said. The self-styled 'bishop' lied about a series of qualifications including a bachelors degree from Kansas State University and a Ph.D from Duke University Divinity School in North Carolina He left a series of ministries over unproved allegations of child abuse 'Outside of mine, he purposefully ruined two other marriages I know about.' Meier and Mahoney had been schoolmates at Salina Central High in Kansas when they began dating in 1998 and they married in their hometown on the day a tornado touched down in May 2002. Mahoney now says she believes the extreme weather event to have been a bad omen of what was to come. 'I was blindly in love,' she said. 'He was attentive. He was kind, always making me feel OK. 'He always joked in high school, he would be either a preacher or a politician. He didn't know which. 'He was a good speaker, especially when he was young. A lot of people loved him.' The couple had three children Lilly, Eli and Josia, as Meier struggled to stay in work amid rumors of inappropriate behavior with children. 'There was a boy in the church who was by Justin's side all the time,' Mahoney said of a 2003 posting in Clarks Hill, Indiana. 'Then, all of a sudden, he wasn't, and his mom saw a massive change in him. She went to the police and was like, 'Something has happened to my child'.' Meier had rapidly increased attendance at the kids' ministry from 15 to more than 100. He denied any sexual activity with the 13-year-old claiming simply that he had admonished him for bringing drugs onto church grounds. 'The kid would not say anything, so the police had nothing,' Mahoney said. 'They had a mom's hunch up against a community leader saying, 'He is a socially and economically challenged kid with a lot of problems'.' They left the town shortly afterwards but, as usual, Meier had no trouble convincing another church to employ him, this time in Frankfurt, Indiana. 'I mean people in the church worshipped Justin,' said daughter Lilly Meier, 21. 'We made a joke that people worshipped Justin, not Jesus. 'The second that he meets you, he's going to give you a great big hug and tell you, 'It's so nice to meet you. I've heard so much about you.' 'He literally makes the energy go up in the room, 100%. If you love fishing, he's going to get you to tell him everything about it. Even if he doesn't know a lot about it, he's going to say, 'I'd love to learn!' He's going to find that connection point. 'Wow, he really cares about what I care about'. 'But, generally, it's just so he can make that connection so that he can use you later down the road.' 'People in the church worshipped Justin,' said daughter Lilly Meier, 21. 'We made a joke that people worshipped Justin, not Jesus.' 'He was a good council member,' said city administrator Tonya Willim. 'Very helpful. Outgoing. Community-minded. Ready to get in and make a change.' Lilly Meir said her father abused her for years on end, often after one of his frequent bouts of drinking. 'He was a narcissist and possibly a sociopath,' she said. 'I say this with all due respect to the people in (Richmond). They were mesmerized by the mirage of a person. 'I don't want it to seem like I have a vendetta or, like, it's out of anger or bitterness for the situation,' she said. 'He was my best friend. We were the closest and I loved him with my whole heart. He was my favorite person on the planet. 'He literally destroyed people's lives.' Younger brother Eli, now 19, says he was abused from the age of five, sometimes on church planting trips for the Churches of God, General Conference based in Ohio. 'There was definitely some sexual abuse growing up, my earliest memories of it happening would have been when we lived in Lawrence.' By 2015 the family had settled in Richmond where Meier started to be seen as a pillar of the community. The following year he was elected president of the chamber of commerce, but his fraudulent past was starting to catch up with him. The Churches of God had spotted Meier claiming in his online profile that he had a Ph.D from Duke University Divinity School in North Carolina, a claim they knew to be a lie. Justin always had a sense of trying to, you know, be more than what he was, to be more impressive than what he was,' the churches' executive director Lance Finley told The Star. 'We just encouraged him, 'You have gifts that are valuable. That's enough. You don't need to do this.' At that time, he took the information down.' Mahoney says her husband had spoken vaguely about taking online classes at Duke and later claimed that he won a doctorate from the Florida Bible Institute and Seminary. It later emerged that Meier was a director of the now defunct Bible Institute 'When I confronted him after he started using 'doctor', I mean I hadn't seen him that aggressive,' Mahoney said. 'It was really scary. I did it one time and it was like, 'If you don't believe me, we might as well get a divorce! How could you not believe me on these things? Why would I lie about this?!' 'It was major. I was just like, 'OK, OK, I guess you did'.' By now their marriage was starting to break up. Mahoney filed for divorce in April 2019 and Meier, still involved with Pangborn, enrolled in a Facebook divorce support group where he met Sarah Ann Miller, 39. She had four children from her 18 years of marriage and he offered her free counselling. By April 2021 they were married, but Miller was already having serious doubts about her lover. 'Just think of the person that would fit perfectly right into your life. That's who he became. 'I was completely, obsessively in love with the guy.' The couple decided to start a new church affiliated to the Anglican Diocese of the Emmanus Way. But the work was expensive and the couple began to quarrel. 'Everyone was praising him,' Miller said. 'I thought, 'How selfish am I?' Literally every single day someone told me how great my husband was.' By now Meier's daughter Lilly was attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, where her father would drive at least once a week and, unknown to university authorities, conduct counselling sessions with students. 'I have personally talked to at least five students who were in 'therapy' in quotations with him,' Miller said. 'Five girls. One of them admitted to having sex with him. Before he died, she was considering pressing charges, but she wanted to wait until after Christmas.' And Meier's new diocese was starting to become suspicious, launching an investigation into their new self-styled 'bishop'. In March 2023, the diocese issued a bombshell report detailing Meier's lies. Miller filed for divorce in November 2023 by which time she was in contact with Meier's former wife and his children. She helped Mahoney set up the 'Facts About Justin Meier' Facebook page, detailing his lives and abuse. 'Mr Meier is an accomplished liar and a natural con man,' it declared, 'a sexual predator who relies on charisma, fast talking, and emotional manipulation to control others and get what he wants. 'Help us spread the word to prevent further abuse.' It went live on December 19, and four days later Mahoney received a call telling her that her former husband had taken his life in his Ford Ranger inside a Grain Valley warehouse. Meier's father and sisters maintain he was the victim of a witch hunt and do not recognize the portrait painted by his wife and ex-wife. He left a five-page suicide note, in which admits both his bachelor's degree and master's degree were bought from a degree mill, and that 'I am a fraud as a secular counselor'. He tells Miller that he still loves her, and denies sexually abusing students at his daughter's college. 'I don't know how LB (Mahoney) got her claws in you but she did,' he writes, 'I also would never hurt any of the girls. 'If one actually said I raped her, then get a polygraph test. Find out the truth and get her a therapist. 'Because knowing that that helped push me over the edge could really mess her up.' He tells his children he loves them and denies all allegations of sexual abuse against them. But he tells them that if he did abuse them, they should blame their mother. 'Just remember if any of this is true, your mother knew about it and did nothing for years,' he claimed. 'She is just as evil as I am. Be careful of her.' Israel's military police is investigating allegations of serious, sexual abuse at a notorious detention facility holding Palestinians, it has been reported. Nine IDF soldiers have been arrested after a Palestinian detainee in the Sde Teiman facility in southern Israel suffered a 'serious injury to an intimate organ' and was left unable to walk, according to Israeli outlet Haaretz. The prisoner showed signs of sexual abuse the Times of Israel reported. However, news of the arrests sparked anger among hard-right groups in the country. On hearing of the soldiers' detention, a mob of Israeli protesters rushed towards the facility in a sign of support and to demand their release, with some breaching the facility's perimeter, live footage broadcast by Israeli broadcasters showed. At the same time, some protesters attempted to break into the military police base Beit Lid where the detained soldiers were taken for questioning, with more footage showing people gathering outside the base - many waving Israeli flags. Right-wing protesters wave Israeli flags outside Sde Teiman detention facility, after Israeli Military Police arrived at the site as part of an investigation into suspected abuse of a Palestinian detainee, near Beersheba in southern Israel, July 29, 2024 Israeli soldiers gather at the gate to the Sde Teiman military base, as people protest in support of soldiers being questioned for detainee abuse, Monday, July 29, 2024 A protester waves the Israeli national flag in support of soldiers being questioned for detainee abuse, outside of the Sde Teiman military base, Monday, July 29, 2024 Hundreds of Israeli protesters, on hearing of the soldiers' detention, rushed towards the facility in a sign of support and to demand their release Among the protesters (some pictured above) was Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, according to the Times of Israel Among the protesters was Israel's National Security Minister and nationalist politician Itamar Ben Gvir, according to the Times of Israel. 'The spectacle of Military Police officers coming to arrest our best heroes at Sde Teiman is nothing less than shameful,' he is reported to have said as he headed to the base alongside other members of his far-right party. Others tried to quell the mounting tensions. After protesters broke into the base, IDF chief Herzi Halevi said that it was 'extremely serious and against the law'. 'Breaking into a military base and disrupting the order there is serious behavior that is not acceptable in any way,' he added. 'We are at war, and actions of this kind endanger the security of the country. 'I strongly condemn the incident and we are working to restore order at the base. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the gates of the detention facility The protesters gathered in support of the nine soldiers arrested over alleged abuse of a Palestinian detainee Israeli soldiers going a protest at the gate to Sde Teiman military base, in support of soldiers being questioned for detainee abuse, Monday, July 29, 2024 Footage of protesters outside the detention facility after nine IDF soldiers were arrested by military police Members of the military police were filmed walking onto the base as protesters were shouting in the background 'I give my full support to the military prosecutor's office and the investigating military police in the investigation of every incident that is brought to their attention. 'This is their duty, regardless of rank or position. 'It is precisely these investigations that protect our soldiers in Israel and the world and preserve the values of the IDF. 'These investigations are carried out while maintaining the honour of our soldiers of whom we are the commanders.' Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement calling for 'an immediate calming of passions in the Sde Teiman base.' He also said he 'strongly condemns' the break in at the base which is used to house Hamas terror suspects and other Palestinians detained in Gaza. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said that 'even in times of anger, the law applies to everyone,' adding: 'the IDF will continue to act in accordance with the law.' Other footage from the base showed a heated argument break out between the military police investigators and soldiers at the base. It was as footage of this row circulated that the Times of Israel said the group of hard-right protesters - encouraged by Ben Gvir - headed towards the base. Since fighting between Hamas militants and Israeli forces began in Gaza, United Nations agencies, rights advocates, officials in the Hamas-run territory, and ex-prisoners have all alleged abuses during detention. Israel's military has said its detention conditions are in line with international law. The Sde Teiman facility was set up to detain Palestinians arrested in the Gaza Strip soon after the war there began on October 7 following the attack by Hamas on southern Israel. The Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Many of the protesters, most of whom were men, were waving Israeli flags outside the gates of the detention facility A man adjusts his kippah (Jewish skullcap) as right-wing Israelis demonstrate next to the Sde Teiman military base near Beersheba, against the detention for questioning of military reservists who were suspected of abuse of a detainee following the October 7 attack in Israel, on July 29, 2024 A protester waves the Israeli national flag in support of soldiers being questioned for detainee abuse, outside of the Sde Teiman military base, Monday, July 29, 2024 Militants also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held in Gaza, including 39 who the military says are dead. Israel's retaliatory response has killed 39,363 people in Gaza, according to Gaza's health ministry which does not provide details on civilian and militant deaths. Amnesty International this month called on Israel to end the indefinite detention of Gaza Palestinians and what it called 'rampant torture' in its prisons. Amnesty said it had documented 27 cases of Palestinians, including five women and a 14-year-old boy, who were detained 'for up to four and a half months' without being able to contact their families. Pennsylvania voters are split in the 2024 race now that Vice President Kamala Harris is the de facto Democratic nominee. In the week after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, Harris saw an enthusiasm and polling bump that appears to be already slimming. The 800 battleground state voters polled in Pennsylvania July 23-25 say they prefer Harris by an inconsequential one-point margin that falls within the 3.46 percentage point margin of error when it's a head-to-head matchup between Trump and Harris. But when third-party candidates are considered in the Commonwealth Foundation survey, the two frontrunners are neck-and-neck at 44 percent while Democrat-turned-independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr. earned second place with 6 percent. Harris has not announced her running mate, but Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro is on the three-person shortlist to become the Democratic vice presidential nominee, according to Bloomberg. The others are Arizona Gov. Mark Kelly and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. A few polls in key battleground state of Pennsylvania taken after President Joe Biden ended his campaign show Kamala Harris and Donald Trump neck-and-neck All three are white middle-aged to older men, which some feel is needed on a ticket headlined by a black and asian woman. Shapiro is joined by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for a campaign swing around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Monday to stump for Harris. A separate Fox News poll also published on Friday also has Trump and Harris in a dead heat in Pennsylvania at 49 percent each. The Keystone State is one of the most important to clinch in November to win the 19 Electoral College votes. Trump nabbed a victory in Pennsylvania in 2016 by just 0.7 percent before the state flipped blue in 2020 to go for Biden over the incumbent by a 1.2 percent gap. Pennsylvania is one of the three toss-up states for 2024, according to Cook Political Report. The other two are fellow rust belt states of Michigan and Wisconsin. If Harris chooses Shapiro to join her on the ticket, it could be in hopes that he would deliver a victory in Pennsylvania in November. Whitmer, once thought to be considering a bid for president in 2024, says that Harris will likely choose her running mate in the next six or seven days just before the Democratic National Convention next month. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is a top contender for Harris' running mate and might be able to help deliver the Keystone State in 2024. He is campaigning in Philadelphia on Monday Despite Shapiro's potential to help bring in voting blocs from Pennsylvanians and Jewish voters, some might be deterred by him breaking with Democrats to support private-school vouchers, which would provide public funds for parents to cover private education costs. 'It's important that we lift up all God's children, and we give special attention to those who are poor kids in struggling school districts,' Shapiro said in an interview with The Wall Street Journal in December 2023. More than two dozen small pro-public education groups sent a letter to Harris last week urging her not to pick Shapiro as her VP. 'He is far too supportive of school privatization to be the vice president,' Arizona public school activist Beth Lewis said. 'We don't need to be soft on this issue because public education is the cornerstone of our democracy.' Vice President Kamala Harris has seen her favorability rating shoot up after President Joe Biden ended his presidential campaign and she became the presumptive presidential nominee. According to a new ABC News/Ipsos poll, Harris' favorability rating among Americans hit 43 percent in late July. It's a sharp increase from its 35 percent before Biden exited the race. Her unfavorable rating was 42 percent, down from 46 percent before Biden dropped out. It comes as the campaign season has seen a jolt of enthusiasm with the stake-up at the top of the ticket as Democrats have rallied behind the new presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. In less than a week, Harris raised $200 million and 66 percent of the donations came from first time donors, according to the campaign. It also signed up 170,000 new volunteers with less than 100 days now until Election Day. A new poll shows Kamala Harris saw her favorability jump while Donald Trump's dropped after the shake up with Biden dropping out of the race Despite the boost that typically comes with the conventions, Donald Trump has seen his favorability drop, according to the new poll. Trump's favorable rating hit 36 percent at the end of July with an unfavorable rating of 52 percent, the poll found. Before Biden dropped out of the race, the Republican ex-president's favorability was at 40 percent among Americans with a 51 percent unfavorable rating. At the same time, Trump's running mate J.D. Vance has a 24 percent favorability rating while 39 percent view him as unfavorable. However, unlike with Harris or Trump, many Americans are still just getting to know the conservative Ohio senator who Trump named as his running mate just two weeks ago. 17 percent of Americans said they did not have an opinion of Vance while 19 percent said they don't know. Poll conducted July 26 to 27 among 1,200 adults J.D. Vance buying breakfast during a campaign swing through Minnesota on July 28. 17 of Americans do not have an opinion of J.D. Vance while 19 percent said they do not know Overall, 86 percent of Democrats and 52 percent of American believe Harris should be the Democratic presidential nominee, the poll found. Only 14 percent of Democrats said the party should have selected a different nominee. The poll suggests there is a massive shift in the enthusiasm gap since Harris took over the top of the ticket. The poll found nearly nine out of ten Democrats are enthusiastic about Harris becoming the nominee with 63 percent saying they are very enthusiastic and 25 percent saying they are somewhat enthusiastic. Vice President Harris waves as she heads to Air Force Two to travel to Pittsfield, MA on July 27 Ex-President Donald Trump wraps up a campaign rally in St. Cloud, MN on July 27 Among Republicans, 82 percent said they are enthusiastic with Trump being the GOP nominee. Since the massive shake-up in the presidential race, the polling found more people said they are likely to vote come November. 66 percent said they were absolutely certain to vote including 76 percent of Democrats and 78 percent of Republicans, up from 62 percent in early July. The number who said they were less likely to vote dropped from 20 percent to 14 percent. Britons in Venezuela have today been urged to 'stay at home' following the country's 'tense' presidential election. The Foreign Office issued fresh advice for UK travellers in the South American state in the wake of yesterday's disputed contest. Marxist dictator Nicolas Maduro, who has previously been backed by ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, was declared the victor by Venezuela's electoral body. But opposition rival Edmundo Gonzalez has also claimed victory. Downing Street this morning said it was 'concerned' about claims of 'serious irregularities in the counting and declared results' of the election. Doubts over the legitimacy of the result spread after social media users shared grabs of the announcement of results by Venezuela's state TV. One appeared to show 109 per cent of voters had cast a ballot, while another suggested 132 per cent of the country had voted. Marxist dictator Nicolas Maduro, who has previously been backed by ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, was declared the victor by Venezuela's electoral body But opposition rival Edmundo Gonzalez has also claimed victory in the country's presidential election Venezuelan army soldiers are pictured standing next to voting machines and ballot boxes earlier this month The Foreign Office issued fresh advice for UK travellers in the South American state in the wake of yesterday's disputed contest In the Foreign Office travel advice for Venezuela, updated today, UK citizens were told the situation in the country 'is currently tense and you should stay at home if possible'. It added: 'There is currently an increased risk of electoral demonstrations and protests. 'You should avoid political rallies, demonstrations and crowds, which may become violent and could be dispersed by the use of force. 'You should not cross security-force lines or barricades. Monitor developments closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.' Asked this morning if the UK Government recognised Mr Maduro's claim of victory, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'We are concerned by the allegations of serious irregularities in the counting and declared results of Sunday's presidential election in Venezuela. 'We are calling for the swift and transparent publication of full, detailed results to ensure that the outcome reflects the votes of the Venezuelan people. 'The UK does not currently recognise the Maduro regime and we would wait to ensure the outcome reflects the votes of the Venezuelan people.' Venezuela's national electoral council (CNE) is supposedly independent but is accused of being controlled by Mr Maduro's government. The 61-year-old - a professed Marxist who has been branded a dictator by critics - has been president since 2013, after he succeeded Hugo Chavez. When he was Labour leader, Mr Corbyn was criticised for attacking 'outside interference' against Venezuela's socialist regime under Mr Maduro and for failing to back sanctions against Caracas. Mike Pompeo, the then US secretary of state, branded Mr Corbyn's apparent support for the Venezuelan leader as 'disgusting'. Former BBC presenter Huw Edwards has been charged with child pornography offences after 37 indecent images were allegedly shared on a WhatsApp chat. Scotland Yard confirmed the 62-year-old broadcaster was facing three charges of making indecent images of children between December 2020 and April 2022. Police said Edwards was arrested on November 8 last year and charged just over a month ago on June 26 following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service. Edwards - who helmed royal and political events at the BBC before resigning in April - has been bailed and will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court this Wednesday. According to the charge sheet, Edwards is accused of having six category A images, 12 category B pictures and 19 category C photographs on WhatsApp. Former BBC host Huw Edwards has been charged with making indecent images of children Huw Edwards and his wife Vicky, pictured in South London in 2018. They have five children The offences are contrary to sections 1(1)(a) and 6 of the Protection of Children Act 1978, and if convicted he could face a maximum of up to 10 years in prison. Category A involves images involving penetrative sexual activity, sexual activity with an animal or sadism; Category B covers images which show non-penetrative sexual activity; while Category C is for indecent images not within categories B or C. A Metropolitan Police spokesman told MailOnline today: 'Huw Edwards, 62, of Southwark, London has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children following a Met Police investigation. 'The offences, which are alleged to have taken place between December 2020 and April 2022, relate to images shared on a WhatsApp chat. Huw Edwards is seen walking through London's Marylebone on June 17 last year with his ID tag 'Edwards was arrested on November 8, 2023. He was charged on Wednesday, 26 June following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service. He has been bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, July 31.' The resignation from the BBC by married father-of-five Edwards in April followed allegations that he paid someone for sexually explicit pictures. The Metropolitan Police and South Wales Police both said in July last year that no criminal offence had been committed by Edwards. Edwards was absent from screens from when the story first broke in July 2023 until his exit in April 2024. Huw Edwards helmed major royal and political events at the BBC before resigning in April He remained on the payroll while suspended, which is normal BBC policy, and was suffering from serious mental health issues and received in-patient hospital care. The BBC confirmed at the time of his departure that he had not received a pay-off and was leaving 'on the basis of medical advice from his doctors'. He had long been a fixture in the coverage of major political and royal events, announcing Queen Elizabeth II's death on the BBC and presenting coverage of her funeral. He also anchored the BBC's broadcast of the King's coronation last year. Last week the BBC confirmed Edwards was paid more than 475,000 in 2023/24 before he resigned and left. Huw Edwards will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (file picture) The veteran newsreader was paid between 475,000 and 479,999 for the year 2023/24 for 160 presenting days, BBC One news specials, election specials and other television programming, according to the BBC's annual report. This marked an increase from 2022/23, when he was paid between 435,000 and 439,999 for 180 days presenting on BBC One, as well as news specials. Throughout the years, Edwards presented the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and Platinum Jubilee in 2022, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (now the Prince and Princess of Wales) in 2011, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018, and the funeral of Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 2021. The BBC News At Ten presenter was also the broadcaster's voice at Trooping the Colour and the Festival of Remembrance, and took over election coverage from the long-serving David Dimbleby in 2019. Billionaire Elon Musk has heralded a decision by a UK court to ban puberty blockers as 'common sense,' weeks after he blamed the 'woke mind virus' for killing his son after she transitioned in 2022. Musk, 53, wrote on X: 'Britain has rightfully banned puberty blockers for children for the immense and permanent harm they do.' In a follow-up message, the South African responded to a tweet from Harry Potter author JK Rowling's posting of a news article surrounding the decision writing: 'Thank goodness for common sense in the UK. Now this should be applied in the US as soon as possible.' On Monday, a high court judge upheld the British government's emergency ban on puberty blockers, saying a study that found 'very substantial risks and very narrow benefits' of the treatment supported the restriction as potentially being harmful. Justice Beverley Lang said a review commissioned by England's National Health Service concluded that gender care is an area of 'remarkably weak evidence' and young people have been caught up in a 'stormy social discourse.' In the wake of Musk making reference to the 'woke mind virus' during an interview with Jordan Peterson, his daughter Vivian painted a scathing picture of her father by saying he was absent and bullied her for being queer. Elon Musk was interviewed by Jordan Peterson in a bizarre and wide-ranging interview earlier this month where he made his comments about the 'woke mind virus' Musk's initial message called out puberty blockers for the 'immense and permanent harm they do' Musk then responded to a tweet from JK Rowling when he urged the US to follow the UK's lead Musk repeatedly dead named his daughter during the interview with Jordan Peterson. 'I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys, Xavier,' he said, using Vivian's former name. 'This was really before I had any understanding of what was going on, and we had COVID going on, so there was a lot of confusion. And I was told Xavier might commit suicide,' Musk added. The SpaceX founder has fathered a reported 12 children over last 22 years and has spoken publicly about his view that the world is underpopulated. He had his kids with three different women, Canadian author Justine Wilson, musician Grimes and his employee, Shivon Zilis. His youngest child, with Zilis, was born in 2024. Responding to her father's interview, Vivian took to Threads, which is owned by Musk's rival, Mark Zuckerberg. 'There's a lot of stuff I need to debunk, but I want to start with what I find the funniest which is the notorious 'slightly autistic' tweet. 'This is gonna be a bit so just bare with me. This is entirely fake. Like, literally none of this ever happened. Ever. I don't even know where he got this from. Vivian wrote that she had never loved musicals or theatre and also hit back at his claims about picking out clothes for her father. Vivian Wilson, seen here, posted on X's arch vial site Threads, owned by Mark Zuckerberg 's Meta , in response to comments made by her father Vivian was born a twin with her brother Griffin in 2004 in California to Musk and his first wife Justine (pictured), whose maiden name Wilson she has now adopted She said: 'I never picked out jackets for him to wear and I was most certainly not calling them 'fabulous' because literally what the f***. 'I did not use the word fabulous when I was four because once again I would like to reiterateI was four. 'Like this is so obvious I don't even think it warrants explanation but apparently people believe this nonsense so here I am.' Vivian added her father has made up these claims because he wasn't around her as a child. She claims that Musk would relentlessly harass her for her 'femininity and queerness.' Meanwhile in the United Kingdom, the group TransActual and a youth who cannot be named under a court order sought to challenge the decision of former Health secretary Victoria Atkins to ban prescribing hormones that can pause the development of puberty. They are sometimes prescribed to help children with gender dysphoria by giving them more time to consider options that could include gender reassignment. The judge threw out the challenge, saying the ban was lawful. The ban restricts the NHS from providing the medication outside of clinical trials and prevents it from being prescribed by private suppliers. Musk said he had known from a young age that she was gay, saying she 'would pick out clothes for me to wear like a jacket and tell it was fabulous' and loved musicals The NHS stopped prescribing puberty blockers last year, saying there was not enough evidence about the benefits and harms. Chay Brown, healthcare director for TransActual, said the government decided to ban the blockers and then found ways to justify it. 'We are seriously concerned about the safety and welfare of young trans people in the U.K.,' Brown said. 'Over the last few years, they have come to view the U.K. medical establishment as paying lip service to their needs and all too happy to weaponize their very existence in pursuit of a now-discredited culture war.' While the ban was put in place by the Conservative government that was ousted from power earlier this month, the new Labour government may make it permanent. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said he welcomed the ruling, though he said he was treading cautiously. He said he was working with the NHS to set up a clinical trial on puberty blockers. 'Children's healthcare must be evidence-led,' Streeting said. 'We must therefore act cautiously and with care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people.' A high-ranking Wyoming judge who served prison time for dealing drugs revealed how time in the slammer changed her life. Terri Smith, 39, was the Wind River Tribal Court head judge when she was busted for distributing oxycodone and cocaine in 2019. The mother-of-two had been living a double life while serving on the court. She was addicted to drugs and worked with her sister Jerri Lee Smith to obtain pills in Utah then sell them in in Fremont County and on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Smith pleaded guilty to the federal drug charges and was sentenced to six months in prison and six months supervised release - which ultimately led to her recovery. 'I was thinking, "I'd rather be here in this jail cell than being an addict out there." I was a slave to that. I was,' Smith told Cowboy State Daily. Terri Smith (pictured), 39, was the Wind River Tribal Court head judge when she was busted for distributing oxycodone and cocaine in 2019 Smith revealed serving time in prison changed her life and ultimately led to her recovery 'I don't have to live like this anymore, because prior to me being indicted and held accountable, every single day I woke up like, "Is this going to be me for the rest of my life? Am I going to live this double life to feed my habit?" 'I saw no way out of it because there was such stigma with addiction.' Smith was a prominent judge and lawyer, serving on the court and previously working as a private attorney to her tribe, the Northern Arapaho. However, her battle with addiction began in undergrad at the University of Utah when her longtime boyfriend died of a drug-and-alcohol-related issue six weeks before graduation in 2007. Smith told the Cowboy State Daily she started taking prescription-strength pain pills to numb the pain. 'I was never really taught to deal with grief,' Smith said. '(And) natives, we're not really taught to deal with grief on an everyday level and we have so much grief, we have so much death and loss.' As a judge she lived a double life working with her sister to obtain pills in Utah then sell them in in Fremont County and on the Wind River Indian Reservation After law school, Smith returned to Wind River and started working for the private law firm that represented the Northern Arapaho Five years later she was asked to serve as an associate judge in what was then an independent Northern Arapaho Court. She became the chief judge when the Northern Arapaho Court reunited with the Eastern Shoshone Court to form the Wind River Tribal Court. While her law career was excelling, Smith was secretly working with her twin sister to traffic and distribute drugs. Law enforcement finally caught up with her in 2018 when the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation began an investigation into her illegal activities. In March 2019 an FBI agent came to Smith's office - who was nearly eight months pregnant at the time - and her world came crashing down. 'It quickly became apparent he was (actually) there for me,' she said. 'He had pictures (of drug or money drops). He was asking questions.' U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson sentenced Smith to six months in prison then six months of ankle-monitor probation at home and three years probation. Her arrest and prison sentence ultimately came as a relief for Smith who said she used the opportunity to get sober and do better for her kids. Smith said she got addicted to drugs while dealing with the death of her boyfriend in college Now Smith works as a peer support specialist on the Wind River Indian Reservation to help other addicts and spends time with her sons, now ages nine and five 'I get up and Im thankful for every little thing I have a bed, a pillow, a shower and just being next to my kids,' said Smith. 'I know what its like to not have them.' While on probation Smith got a job as a room cleaner for the local Holiday Inn and earned her first physical labor paycheck. 'I was so proud of myself when I got it. I never had to do that type of work, and I have so much appreciation for it now,' she said. After seeing how she turned her life around, Johnson ended her probation early. 'All credit goes to Terri. Shes the person who really accomplished everything in her life. Give her 100% of the credit,' Johnson said. Now Smith works as a peer support specialist on the Wind River Indian Reservation to help other addicts and spends time with her sons, now ages nine and five. 'I did the work to get better and to do better, so Im not ashamed of (my past),' she said. 'And I want people to see, no matter who you are, how far youve fallen, you can learn and do better.' A married Texan megachurch pastor has stepped down in a cloud of mystery surrounding alleged 'inappropriate behavior'. Cross Timbers Church in the Fort Worth suburb of Argyle announced the resignation of lead pastor Josiah Anthony in vague terms over the weekend. Elder John Chalk told the congregation 'events and circumstances' involving Anthony have unfolded over the 'past few years'. 'Josiah has been in a prolonged and sustained season of struggle with his emotional and mental health which has been very painful for him and those around him,' Chalk told the flock. 'Throughout this struggle, some of Josiah's decisions and actions were inappropriate and hurtful to current and former members of the CT family and staff.' Cross Timbers Church in the Fort Worth suburb of Argyle announced the resignation of lead pastor Josiah Anthony (pictured) in vague terms over the weekend Elder John Chalk from Cross Timbers Church (pictured) told the congregation 'events and circumstances' involving Anthony have unfolded over the 'past few years' Chalk added that Anthony was not 'forthcoming and transparent' with the church staff and authorities. 'Once all of this came to light over the last few weeks, it became evident that Josiah could not continue to serve as our lead pastor,' he said. Chalk said the elders had asked Anthony to resign and he agreed. The inappropriate behavior appears not to be a police matter, as Argyle cops said they had 'no knowledge of the circumstances surrounding changes' in the church. Anthony started working for Cross Timbers Church, which has a congregation of 5,000, as a student pastor in 2014. Over the next nine years he rose through the ranks to Senior Pastor in March 2022, according to his LinkedIn. Anthony's profile has been removed from the church website but his speeches to the congregation are still visible on the YouTube page. Anthony started working for Cross Timbers Church, which has a congregation of 5,000, as a student pastor in 2014. (Pictured: Anthony with his partner) The inappropriate behavior appears not to be a police matter, as Argyle cops said they had 'no knowledge of the circumstances surrounding changes' in the church (pictured) Cross Timbers executive pastor Byron Copeland is serving as interim lead pastor in Anthony's absence. Copeland previously worked for the recently embattled Gateway Church in Southlake - one of the biggest megachurches in the country. The founder and senior pastor of the church, Robert Morris, was accused of sexually abusing his former family friend Cindy Clemishire in the 1980s when she was 12. Lawyers for the former spiritual advisor to Donald Trump initially tried to pin the blame on the child for 'getting into bed with him', but he eventually admitted the abuse. Cross Timbers' temporary pastor Copeland was also named in a separate 2023 lawsuit against Gateway Church over alleged civil rights violations. According to the lawsuit, 'Pastor Copeland backed [the plaintiff] into a corner of the room they were in and threatened to fire her if she didn't shut up and stop stirring up drama.' Doctors have removed a piece of cloth that was left inside a woman's body two years after she had an operation to remove a cancerous tumor in Brazil. Mariel Vidal, 58, had the 20-centimeter cloth taken out during a procedure on July 22 at Beneficencia Portuguesa de Santos Hospital in the Sao Paulo city of Santos. Vidal remains hospitalized as doctors now await to determine if she will require another surgery, her daughter, Stefany Vidal, told Brazilian news outlet G1. She was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022 and had underwent a colostomy, which created an opening for the colon through the belly to allow the stool to be drained from a stoma into a removal pouch. Mariel Vidal was diagnosed with colon cancer and had a colostomy in July 2022. After a year of being in discomfort, doctors discovered a 20-centimeter cloth in her abdomen and removed it July 2022 Doctors initially thought there was dry stool in Mariel Vidal's colostomy bag, but one physician inspecting the area where the stool passes through a stoma on her belly pulled on the material and discovered that it was actually a piece of cloth that had been left in her abdomen during a July 2022 operation In November 2023, she began to experience stomach pains and weight loss, which were the same symptoms that she had before the cancer was detected. Although she experienced the same symptoms again, imaging results were inconclusive. Vidal checked her pouch on July 20 and noticed that it was being filled with material that led her and the family to reach out to her doctors. The team of physicians initially thought it was dry stool and was admitted to the hospital for further testing July 21. A doctor who was doing their residency had doubts with the material in the colostomy bag and discovered it was a piece of cloth when they began to extract it. 'She saw it, thought it was strange and started pulling it, then she realized it was a cloth. So, she called her supervisor, the surgeon,' Stefany Vidal recalled. 'He evaluated it and put his hand in it, then he started pulling it and it was a very large cloth, by the way.' The surgeon was able to remove 10 centimeters of cloth on the first try and the other 10 on the second attempt. Stefany Vidal said that her mother, Mariel Vidal, is recovering from the procedure to remove the cloth from her belly and will be seeking legal action against the hospital At first, Mariel Vidal's loved ones feared the worst and thought her cancer had returned after having gone through chemotherapy treatments. 'The first feeling was anger, because only those who have had a relative with cancer know how difficult it is,' Stefany Vidal said. 'We thought the cancer was coming back. Her head wasn't well anymore,' she added. 'But finding out that it was a cloth inside her made me angry, because she should have been fine.' Stefany Vidal said the mother will be hiring an attorney to seek legal action against the hospital. In a statement, Cubatao Municipal Hospital said it has been in contact with Mariel Vidal to ensure her recovery and has been providing support to her and her family. It also added that the surgeon who operated the woman in July 2022 is no longer a member of its surgical team. A speeding Mercedes driver was travelling more than double the speed limit when he hit and killed the daughter of an Ecuadorian politician while she was crossing the road, a court has heard. Octavian Cadar, 39, collided with the 28-year-old Vanessa Charlotte Sagney de la Bastida near Wandsworth Bridge causing her to 'somersault' over a railing on 16 March 2022. Cadar was on his way to see his girlfriend and was driving at more than double the speed limit, jurors heard. He drove towards Ms Sagnay de la Bastida and her fiance Michael Williams who were crossing the road. Mr Williams continued to run to the other side of the road but Ms Sagnay de la Bastida tried to turn round and return to the pavement when she was hit, the Old Bailey heard. Cadar was driving at 48 mph just before impact, when the speed limit was 20mph. He began emergency braking just a tenth of a second before the collision, it was said. He denies causing death by dangerous driving but has admitted the lesser offence of causing death by careless driving. Ms Sagnay de la Bastida, was was killed in 2022, was the daughter of Carlos Sagnay de la Bastida. Mr de la Bastida had run for president of Ecuador in 2006 Octavian Cadar was on his way to see his girlfriend and was driving at more than double the speed limit, jurors heard Ms Sagnay de la Bastida worked for Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust as a research assistant within their Department of Psychology Ms Sagnay de la Bastida, known as Charlotte, was the daughter of Ecuadorian politician Carlos Sagnay de la Bastida. Mr de la Bastida ran for president of Ecuador in 2006, although he only received around 13,400 votes. Ms Sagnay de la Bastida studied psychology at the University of St Andrews and graduated with a master's degree from King's College London. She was employed by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust as a research assistant within their Department of Psychology. Prosecutor Amanda Hamilton said: 'There is no dispute that Mr Cadar was the driver of a silver Mercedes motorcar and his car collided with the deceased, who was known to everyone as Charlotte. 'Mr Cadar has already pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving but the crown say the standard of Mr Cadar's driving wasn't careless, it fell far below that, it was dangerous. 'He was heading towards Wandsworth bridge and was going to go over to the north side of the river because he was heading to Fulham. 'Just before the entrance to the road there is a round sign that says 20mph. 'Walking along that road was Vanessa Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida. 'She was aged 28 at the time and her and her fiance Michael Williams were heading home from lunch. 'Both live in London and had been living there for some time. 'At about 10.06pm as they came up to some traffic lights Mr Williams pressed the button then looked to the right and the road was clear. 'He started crossing towards the central reservation. As they were crossing Mr Cadar drove his Mercedes off the roundabout at speed. 'They heard the car coming and Mr Williams ran on continuing with their journey while Charlotte ran back to the pavement she had just left and the Mercedes vehicle struck her. Ms Sagnay de la Bastida studied psychology at the University of St Andrews and graduated with a master's degree from King's College London Charlotte Sagnay de la Bastida had been with her fiance Michael Williams when she was hit and killed by Octavian Cadar Octavian Cadar, who denies a charge of causing death by dangerous driving, is seen leaving Wimbledon Magistrates' Court 'Mr Williams told police he saw Charlotte hit on her left hand side by the bonnet of the car and he watched as she was thrown forwards over a railing and he believed she hit the street sign. 'He heard a scream and then saw her land on the ground.' An eyewitness said he heard 'revving sounds' he associated with a 'speeding vehicle' and then saw the Mercedes heading north and heard a loud thud. Ms Hamilton said: 'He saw a person somersaulting twice in the air and then he heard another thud.' He then saw Mr Williams run over to her and scream 'what have you done?', the court heard. Cadar got out of his car and said 'I didn't see', the court heard. He then approached Mr Williams and shouted 'why did you freeze, why didn't you keep walking?', jurors were told. Cadar tried to move Ms Sagnay de la Bastida but Mr Williams screamed at him not to touch her, jurors heard. An off-duty doctor began to give CPR to Ms Sagnay de la Bastida but she was clearly dead. Paramedics attended and her life was pronounced extinct at 10.19pm due to head injuries. Roadside alcohol and drugs tests found that Cadar was not under the influence, the court heard. He suggested to police that the couple had been 'messing around' and stopped in the road. Cadar said he would have lost control if he had attempted to break so he tried to swerve round the couple but the woman 'ran across the road and jumped in the air.' He said he believed the speed limit was 30mph and he was just under the limit. Three members of Ms Sagnay de la Bastida's family were in court today. Her mother became distressed and sobbed after she heard that Cadar had touched her daughter and the jury was asked to leave court. Bearded Cadar appeared in the dock in a grey suit. Cadar, of Clydesdale Way, Belvedere, southeast London, denies causing death by dangerous driving.He admits causing death by careless driving. The trial continues. Brits flocked to the beaches today to make the most of the 29C scorcher and tomorrow is going to be even hotter. Temperatures are expected to reach 32C tomorrow and Wednesday but will drop to 28C on Thursday with thunderstorms bringing 3.5 inches of rain. Heat health alerts have been issued until at least the end of Wednesday with much of the UK set to enjoy 'very warm, locally hot weather' over the next few days. The Met Office said the mercury could hit 32C in London by tomorrow while long-term forecasts remain warm despite the chance of thunderstorms during the week. The Met Office has issued a thunderstorm warning for much of England on Thursday from 12pm until 11.59pm with up to 3.5in (90mm) of rain set to fall in 24 hours. The Met Office warns the storms could cause road closures, delays to trains and bus services and power cuts, with temperatures continuing to cool towards the weekend. The heatwave threshold is met when a location records at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures exceeding a designated value. People sit by the fountains at Trafalgar Square in London today as high temperatures continue People sunbathing at Leicester Square in London this morning as the warm weather continues People relaxing in the warm weather at St James's Park in London this morning People sunbathing at Leicester Square in London this morning as the warm weather continues This is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, but rises to 28C (82F) in London and its surrounding area, where temperatures are typically higher. The warm surge is down to a wave of high pressure and warm air rising from the south, creating dry, fine and sunny conditions and bringing temperatures up. Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge said: 'There is certainly potential that it could become an actual official heatwave, because in the spells you've had before it hasn't actually met all the criteria. 'If there's not, it's very close to it, and if you're out and about and a member of the public then it's going to feel like a heatwave anyway, because also overnight things are going to turn a little bit more humid and muggy day-on-day as well.' A UK high of 27.3C (81.1F) was recorded at Charlwood in Surrey yesterday, while the low was 3.5C (38.3F) at Braemar in Aberdeenshire. Highs of 29C (84F) are expected today and 32C (90F) tomorrow and on Wednesday, both in South East England. Thursday and Friday could both hit 28C (82F). The Met Office has issued a thunderstorm warning for Thursday from 12pm until 11.59pm The UK's hottest day of the year so far saw a temperature of 31.9C (89.4F) recorded at St James's Park in London on July 19. The previous record high for 2024 was 30.5C (86.9F) in Wisley, Surrey, on June 26. Many parts of the country will see temperatures 4C to 5C warmer than average for this time in July, the Met Office said. Only the far north-west areas of Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland will see some cloud and possibly rain today and tomorrow. However, this summery spell could end abruptly on Wednesday with some heavy thundery rain expected, although uncertainty remains whether this will be just across the South of England or other parts of the UK. The Met Office thunderstorm warning is in place on Thursday, amid an alert for possible flooding, power cuts, lightning strikes, hail, strong winds and travel disruption. It said: 'The heaviest showers could result in 20-30 mm within an hour, with 24 hour accumulations possibly reaching as much as 70-90 mm where multiple showers affect the same location.' The warning added that 'there is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life'. Despite the sudden showers, temperatures are expected to stay high heading into the first week of August. Commuters cross London Bridge this morning on their way to work as the heatwave begins Commuters wait for a bus in Central London this morning as they head to work in the sunshine A warm start in the capital this morning as people cross London Bridge in the sunshine Commuters cross London Bridge this morning on their way to work as the heatwave begins A cyclist makes their way across London Bridge this morning amid the very warm weather Commuters cross London Bridge this morning on their way to work as the heatwave begins A beautiful sunrise over the River Thames this morning as London experiences hot weather Commuters cross London Bridge this morning on their way to work as the heatwave begins Mr Partridge said: 'Usually you get these thunderstorms come through and then everything's a lot cooler and fresher. 'But although it will be a bit fresher at the end of the week, it will still be about where we should be, if not a degree or so warmer. So a bit of summer is on the cards.' Meanwhile the UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow heat health alert for the South and East of England, the Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber regions. This runs from 9am today until 11pm on Wednesday and warns of the 'potential for significant impacts to be observed across the health and social care sector due to the high temperatures'. This includes 'observed increase in mortality across the population likely, particularly in the 65+ age group or those with health conditions, but impacts may also be seen in younger age groups'. People out in the early morning sunshine on a warm morning today in Dunsden, Oxfordshire Beautiful early morning sunshine in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as the heatwave begins The heatwave threshold is met when a location records at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures exceeding a designated value. This is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, but rises to 28C (82F) in London and its surrounding area, where temperatures are typically higher The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow heat health alert for the South and East of England, the Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber regions - until 11pm on Wednesday Your browser does not support iframes. It also says that 'increased demand for remote healthcare services' is likely, and internal temperatures in care settings such as hospitals and care homes 'may exceed recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment'. How daytime heat above 23C can bring sleepless nights Britons can face sleepless nights when the outdoor temperature for the day has only risen above 23C, a new study has claimed. Indoor climate management firm tado analysed data from more than 120,000 homes in the UK and found the daytime high of 23C can put the nighttime indoor temperature over the threshold for a comfortable night's sleep. The Sleep Charity has said the ideal level for a bedroom is between 16C and 18C, with higher nighttime temperatures interrupting the body's cooling schedule, leading to increased restlessness and reduced deep wave and rapid eye movement. During last September's unseasonable heat, Londoners had a whole week where the average nighttime temperature was 24C or more. Already this year's first very hot weather end of June also saw average nighttime temperatures above 24C in eastern parts of England. tado co-founder Christian Deilmann said: 'We all love the warm temperatures, within reason, during the day but it is surprising how an average temperature of just over 23C can heat up your home to a point where you may face an uncomfortable night that stops you sleeping. 'Because of the way our homes are built so that the temperature does not peak or trough like it does outside, we even saw some nights in excess of 24C when the daytime outdoor temperature was only about 22C.' Advertisement Finally, the alert warns of the 'impact on ability of services to be delivered due to heat effects on workforce possible and many indoor environments likely to be overheating, leading to increased risk to vulnerable people living independently in the community as well as in care settings'. The turnaround in conditions follows a very wet start to July - with East and South East England seeing about a month's worth of rainfall in just the first week. Also today, the London Fire Brigade urged parents and carers to explain the risks of jumping into water and open water swimming to children. Craig Carter, the LFB's assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: 'It's a sad statistic that the risk of drowning in England increases as children reach their teenage years, and that teenage boys are the most likely group to accidentally drown. 'It can be tempting to cool off from the heat by going for a swim. But despite the heat, waterways are still cold enough to put a person into cold water shock which can affect anybody, no matter their fitness. 'It can cause panic, anxiety, disorientation, and loss of muscular control, which causes a person to gasp for air inhaling water as a result.' He urged anyone caught in a dangerous situation to 'float to live', which involves tilting your head back and submerging your ears; trying to relax and breathe normally; gently moving your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to; and spread your arms and legs out to improve stability. Once your breathing is under control, you should then call for help or swim to safety. Mr Carter added that he was urging people not to take disposable barbecues with them to open spaces because they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry. Separately, a study has found dogs are being made to walk on hot roads, pavements and plastic grass in the heat. The survey by Burns Pet Nutrition also found half of dog walkers make no change to their walking routine when the weather is hot. The poll of 2,000 pet owners also revealed 38 per cent believe temperatures of up to 29C is too hot for walkies, while 34 per cent feel 24C heat is too much for a dog. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has abandoned his push for the nation to become a republic. The move is a huge boost for the monarchy's standing Down Under and comes in time for King Charles and Queen Camilla's visit to the country in October. The royal pair will carry out engagements in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales, before heading to Samoa for a Commonwealth summit. It was unknown whether the trip would take place at all in the weeks that followed news of Charles' cancer diagnosis in February. Crushing the spirit of republicans Australia-wide, Mr Albanese announced yesterday that he will not be holding a referendum for Australia to become a republic. King Charles with Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during an audience at Buckingham Palace on May 2, 2023 The Australian PM (pictured) has abandoned his push for the nation to become a republic King Charles and Queen Camilla will carry out engagements in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales in October, before heading to Samoa for a Commonwealth summit Mr Albanese defended his decision to scrap the republican ministerial role, which he created following his 2022 election. 'I said before I was elected prime minister, I intended to have one referendum. It is the only thing I committed to.' Mr Albanese was referring to the 2023 Australian Indigenous Voice referendum. The Australian PM has never shied away from his desire for Australia to separate from the monarchy and become a republic. Many supporters of the movement had long believed the death of the Queen would be the catalyst for Australia to seriously consider moving away from the monarchy. But Mr Albanese swore allegiance to King Charles at his coronation in May in the wake of the Queen's death, and despite being a 'life-long republican', insisted he has 'a great deal of respect' for the King. He also assured members of the public both in Australia and abroad a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic is out of the question for the near future. Charles and Camilla's tour in October will not extend to New Zealand, as had been planned initially. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: 'The King's doctors have advised that such an extended programme should be avoided at this time, to prioritise His Majesty's continued recovery.' The programmes in Australia and Samoa would be subject to doctors' advice and could be modified accordingly, the palace said earlier this month. Rachel Reeves today faced claims she is pursuing the 'politics of envy' as she announced VAT will be charged on private school fees from January. The Chancellor confirmed Labour will push ahead with their controversial manifesto promise to end tax breaks for private schools. She also announced immediate action to prevent the 'pre-payment' of fees by parents as a means of getting around the 20 per cent hike. There are fears that Ms Reeves' decision to impose VAT on fees in the middle of the academic year will wreak havoc on schools' budgets. There have also been warnings about a flood of pupils being dragged out of schools halfway through the academic year, if parents are left unable to afford added costs. Rachel Reeves today faced claims she is pursuing the 'politics of envy' as she announced VAT will be charged on private school fees from January The Chancellor confirmed Labour will push ahead with their controversial manifesto promise to end tax breaks for private schools Ms Reeves also announced immediate action to prevent the 'pre-payment' of fees by parents as a means of getting around the 20 per cent hike The Chancellor this afternoon announced a range of revenue-raising and cost-saving measures as she outlined a 22billion 'black hole' in the public finances. A Treasury document revealed private school and boarding fees will be subject to VAT at 20 per cent from 1 January 2025. Parents of private schools pupils were also warned they would not be able to pay fees for the next academic year up front, as a means of getting around the hike. 'The Government will legislate in the Finance Bill with retrospective effect to provide that fees paid from 29 July 2024 pertaining to the term starting in January 2025 onwards to be subject to VAT,' the Treasury said. It also rejected claims that schools in the state sector would be swamped with pupils transferring from private schools as a result of the action. The doument added: 'The Government recognises that these policy changes may lead to increased costs for some parents and carers, and that some pupils may subsequently move into the state education sector. 'The number of pupils who may switch schools as a result of these changes represent a very small proportion of overall pupil numbers in the state sector. 'The Government is therefore confident that the state sector will be able to accommodate any additional pupils and that there will not be a significant impact on the state education system as a whole.' Tory leadership candidate James Cleverly, the former home secretary, hit out at Ms Reeves' action. He said: 'This is an ideological decision that will hit small independent schools. Don't let them spin it as a necessity. Its the politics of envy.' In their general election manifesto, Labour pledged to use the money raised from ending tax breaks for private schools to fund a series of pledges. This included the recruitment of 6,500 extra teachers in the state sector, among other measures such as providing 3,000 new nurseries. The Institute for Fiscal Studies previously estimated that removing tax exemptions from private schools would raise about 1.6billion a year in extra tax revenue. But, according to the Sunday Times, research by HMRC in January showed - in the most extreme case - the policy would bring in far less. It reported that officials modelled three scenarios taking into account how much would be raised if Labour's plan led to more pupils moving to state schools. Data from the Independent Schools Council's 2023 census found there were 554,316 pupils at private schools in the UK, representing about 5.9 per cent of all pupils. Under their worst-case scenario, HMRC planned for 17 per cent of private pupils, about 94,000, moving to state schools. This would see the policy of removing tax exemptions for private schools raise just 650million in extra revenue in 2025-26 because of the added cost of funding children in the state system. In a second scenario, HMRC calculated that if 11 per cent of pupils moved to state education, about 60,000, the policy would raise 900million. A 5 per cent shift of privately educated pupils to the state sector, about 28,000 pupils, would raise 1.15 billion. A Treasury spokesman said: The Government is committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity, ensuring every child has access to high-quality education. To do this, the Government is ending tax breaks for private schools, helping to raise revenue to fund state education priorities.' The Rochdale brothers who were arrested at Manchester Airport are being represented by high profile Scottish human rights lawyer Aamer Anwar. Mr Anwar said it was 'the family's choice to withdraw their instruction' from controversial 'TikTok lawyer' Akhmed Yakoob, but declined to say why they had cut ties with him. Greater Manchester Police was plunged into crisis last week after footage emerged of an officer kicking Muhammed Fahir, 19, while he was arrested alongside his brother Amaad. However, a CCTV clip obtained over the weekend shed more light on the incident as it shows Fahir attacking three officers just seconds before he was kicked on the ground. In response, the family's solicitor Mr Yakoob released a video on Instagram on Sunday, declaring: 'After consulting with the family I have decided for now to step aside and I have recommended the family to a lawyer'. Replacing Mr Yakoob, Mr Anwar told BBC Newsnight there was 'no justification' for a police officer trained to take 'split second decisions' and kick a prone suspect, claiming that the context was 'irrelevant'. Scottish human rights lawyer Aamer Anwar (pictured) is now representing the brothers arrested at Manchester Airport Footage of a police officer kicking Muhammed Fahir, 19, while he was arrested alongside his brother Amaad He told the Mail that even after seeing the CCTV of the brothers punching the officers which resulted in widespread backing for the suspended constable - he had not changed his stance. Mr Anwar has previously represented for other high profile cases, including for the family of 'Scotland's George Floyd' Sheku Bayoh, who died in police custody. Mr Bayoh, 31, stopped breathing in May 2015 after he was cuffed by officers responding to a call in Kirkcaldy, Fife. During an inquiry into his death, Mr Anwar challenged the police officers involved to give a full testimony if they had nothing to hide. The top lawyer has also represented the family of Emma Caldwell, whose killer Iain Packer walked free for 19 years despite officers being repeatedly told he 'is the man'. Mr Anwar said some officers at Police Scotland had 'betrayed justice', Emma, and the other women who were also Packer's victims. Mr Anwar also represented the Scottish Covid Bereaved group, who demanded answers as to why Nicola Sturgeon failed to produce any pandemic diaries for the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. Defending the two brothers involved in the Manchester Airport arrest, Mr Anwar said today: 'The officer has discharged a Taser, the suspect is lying incapacitated on the floor. 'No police officer in that situation has a right to take a running kick to his head and then stamp on him as well. Controversial ' TikTok lawyer' Akhmed Yakoob (pictured) is no longer representing the two brothers 'No police officer is above the law, no matter the context of his actions. 'Firearms officers are extremely highly trained professionals, they have to take split second decisions which could result in someone losing their life. 'The family have made it clear that all communities should remain calm over what happened, and they have expressed their concerns for the health of the officers involved. 'This is a family with more than one relative serving in the police. 'They have said that if a family member has committed a criminal offence then they should face due process. 'But that doesn't excuse unlawful actions by the police. The officers need to answer for their actions.' He added: 'We require the release of all the video material that is available, not just the CCTV clip which has been leaked. 'If it has been leaked in order to spin how this incident is perceived, that is extremely dangerous. 'It amounts to seeking to prejudice live proceedings. 'We need to see all the bodycam footage that exists in relation to all the incidents at the airport. 'And if police bodycams were not switched on, that would beg even more questions.' Vice President Kamala Harris plans to push more policies focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) if elected president, despite growing backlash against those programs. Harris has publicly criticized efforts to block DEI principles led by Republicans as she campaigns around the country. She previously criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for trying to root out DEI principles from the state government calling it 'extremist' and accusing the leader of not understanding the 'true meaning' of the term. Her renewed DEI push comes as business leaders are reportedly 'increasingly reluctant' and even 'fed up' with DEI programs, citing employee and customer backlash. But that doesn't seem to be stopping the VP, who has a long track record of pushing 'equity and inclusion' in nearly every sector. Caroline A. Wanga, CEO, Essence Ventures and Vice President Kamala Harris speak onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture about equity Harris has repeatedly called for government to push 'equity' instead of 'equality,' arguing that some people of different races and gender need more from the federal government than others. 'Equity says let's pay attention to that and make up for, especially, historic issues in terms of the lack of resources being put into communities,' Harris said during her campaign college tour to speak to young audiences. Harris spoke at length about the need to address historical 'inequities' during her failed 2020 campaign for president and even appeared open to the need for racial reparations. 'It's complicated,' she said during an interview with podcaster Jemele Hill in 2019 when asked about the government offering financial reparations to black descendants of slavery. Vice President Kamala Harris talks with Gianna Floyd, the daughter of George Floyd, Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris speaks onstage during the 2022 Essence Festival of Culture 'Frankly I don't believe that writing a check is going to be enough,' she said 'I really don't. And the worst thing that I think could happen is that checks get written and then everybody says, 'Okay, stop talking about this now' without addressing the systemic inequities that are deep and require investment.' Harris spoke with Hill about her plan for the government to force corporations to prove they are paying women equally to men or face a stiff fine. 'That'll get their attention,' she said with a grin. Harris also proposed the idea of paying teachers more money depending on the location and race of the school and the student. 'If a child has a black teacher, before the end of the third grade, they are 13 percent more likely to go to college,' she explained. 'If that child has two back teachers before then they are 32 percent more likely to go to college.' She said her policies would try to 'connect these dots' in the education system to give teachers more money for working in high risk urban communities and work with black colleges to address education problems. Harris also teamed up with popular liberal Democrats to offer policy proposals on equity. In July 2019, Harris launched a 'climate equity plan' with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, that explicitly linked racial justice and climate change to specifically spend tax dollars in specific communities. 'Indigenous communities, Black and brown communities, and the youth of our nation are calling for and demanding justice. We need them at the table from the beginning,' Harris wrote, as she announced her proposed legislation. Vice President Kamala Harris listens during a roundtable discussion at the NAACP National Convention in Atlantic City, New Jersey Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (C) attend the Essence Festival of Culture at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 06, 2024 Harris also teamed up with Sen. Elizabeth Warren to propose a bill that would use $100 billion in government funding to help black families purchase a home. She later trumpeted her proposal at the the Essence festival in 2019 asserting that the typical black family only had only $10 of wealth for every $100 in wealth held by a white family. 'Ladies, if we're going to right what is wrong, let's deal with the racial wealth gap in our country,' she said to the audience in a discussion panel with Al Sharpton. Harris continued her arguments for equity after she was selected by Democratic nominee Joe Biden as his running mate. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) and Rev. Al Sharpton discuss issues at a restaurant in Harlem Kamala Harris speaks at the National Action Network convention In November 2020, Harris explained in a campaign video that equity was more important to the country than equality. 'Equality suggests, 'Oh, everyone should get the same amount,' Harris said. 'The problem with that not everybody's starting out from the same place. So if we're all getting the same amount but you started out back there and I started out over here, we could get the same amount, but you're still going to be that far back behind me.' Harris argued that government should pursue 'equity' instead. 'Equitable treatment means we all end up at the same place,' she said. Critics were alarmed by the video, warning that it was a vision of communism, where the power of the state should be used to ensure equality of outcomes, not equality of opportunity. As the vice president, Harris has made a pointed effort to push equity principals in every part of government. Harris made it a priority to hire a diverse staff when she first took office, but after she bullied staff and made unrealistic demands, her employees left in droves, according to DailyMail.com. 'If we want fair outcomes, we must understand what are disparities and then accommodate and adjust for those disparities if we want equal outcomes,' she said during a college event in September at Hampton University. Harris and Biden also trumpeted their diversity choices in staff and the cabinet. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris attend a meeting at the White House US Vice President Kamala Harris (L) and US President Joe Biden meet with supporters at the White House Biden routinely boasted about his selection of Harris as his running mate as evidence of his administration's commitment to equity. 'To me, the values of diversity, equality, inclusion are literally and this is not kidding the core strengths of America. That's why I'm proud to have the most diverse administration in history that taps into the full talents of our country,' he said in May. 'And it starts at the top with the Vice President.' Biden signed an executive order in 2023, on 'Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through The Federal Government.' Ahead of the campaign season Harris has made the issue of DEI a priority, warning her supporters that the ideas and policies behind it were under attack. 'They're trying to undo corporations and other private sectors sector industries who are paying attention to this,' she said. 'And we got to fight against this. We have to fight against this because it will lead to very bad outcomes.' Squad leader AOC sounded off on Donald Trump and running mate J.D. Vance's 'SUPER weird' political platform, saying they're trying to attract sexually frustrated voters. The bizarre line of attack comes as Vance has weathered criticism for calling Democratic presidential frontrunner Vice President Kamala Harris a 'childless cat lady.' Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's assault on Trump and Vance supporters was accompanied by a flurry of insults at the Republican presidential ticket, calling the GOP pair 'creepy' and 'abnormal.' 'Being obsessed with repressing women is goofy,' AOC posted on X in response to a post from former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. 'Trying to watch what LGBTQ+ people do all the time is abnormal.' New York Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are courting incels to vote for them. Incel commonly refers to hyper-online males who express their desire to have romantic relationships online despite not being able to secure a partner 'Punishing people who don't have biological offspring is creepy,' the Squad leader continued. 'It's an incel platform, dude. It's SUPER weird. And people need to know,' she added of the Republican presidential ticket. The New York Democrat specifically referenced how Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are courting incels to vote for them. Incel commonly refers to hyper-online males who express their desire to have romantic relationships online despite not being able to secure a partner. The title is often derogatory and meant to indicate sexually frustrated and out of touch men. The progressive's remarks came in response to a post from Ramaswamy mentioning how Democrats are trying to paint Trump and Vance as 'weird.' 'This whole 'they're weird' argument from the Democrats is dumb & juvenile,' his post began. 'This is a presidential election, not a high school prom queen contest.' 'It's also a tad ironic coming from the party that preaches 'diversity & inclusion.' Win on policy if you can, but cut the crap please,' the former candidate's post said. 'It's an incel platform, dude. It's SUPER weird,' AOC said of the politics Trump and Vance are running on The progressive decried how the Republicans are too focused on women's and LGBT issues Ocasio-Cortez said Trump and Vance are 'trying to watch what LGBTQ + people do all the time' adding that it is 'abnormal' To the former candidates credit, recent Republican and Democrat political jabs have indeed been weird. Donald Trump's VP pick J.D. Vance spent last week sweltering in the spotlight after his past quotes calling Democratic leaders 'a bunch of childless cat ladies' went viral. The comments, clipped from a 2021 interview with Tucker Carlson, called out VP-turned-presidential hopeful Kamala Harris as one of many childless leaders, Vance said, 'who are miserable' and 'want to make the rest of the country miserable too.' His provocative theory drew retorts from Friends star Jennifer Aniston, pop star Kesha and VP Harris' own step-daughter. And on Sunday evening Vance defended his past comments, pushing back on critics of his 'childless cat lady' comments claiming those putting him on blast lied about what he said. The 39-year-old Ohio senator appeared on the Fox News show 'Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy' where he doubled down on what he meant. J.D. Vance appeared on Fox News where he doubled down on his 'childless cat lady' claims 'If you look at what the left has done, they have radically taken this out of context and, in fact, aggressively lied about what Ive said,' Vance claimed. 'What I do think is true, Trey, and this goes to the heart of what I was talking about three years ago in those comments, but its going to be something I continue to talk about, is that the left has increasingly become explicitly anti-child and anti-family,' he continued. On Sunday, Gowdy pointed out to Vance that there have been many leaders without biological children from George Washington to former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. 'So I think you will agree with me that direct offspring are not necessary to be fully invested in the future of this country,' Gowdy said. 'Of course not, Trey. I do think that being a parent actually has a profound effect on somebodys perspective and we should honor and respect that,' Vance said. 'But there are a whole host of people who dont have children for a whole host of reasons. And they certainly are great people who can participate fully in the life of this country.' There has been a major development in the case of a notorious Tennessee sheriff who was filmed forcefully baptizing a woman in a lake to let her off with a ticket. A proposed settlement has been reached in the case of former Hamilton County deputy Daniel Wilkey, who was filmed baptizing Shandle Riley in Soddy Lake as an alternative to issuing her a ticket in February 2019. The family of Riley - who passed away in 2022 of an overdose - is set to receive $100,000 from Hamilton County, pending approval from the County Commissioners, News Channel 9 reported. The event was captured on body camera footage by Wilkey's partner, Jacob Goforth. The footage came to light when Riley's attorney filed an $11 million lawsuit against Hamilton County in federal court. Wilkey has also been sued in the past for conducting a forced anal cavity search on a man on the same day. A proposed settlement has been reached in the case of a former Hamilton County deputy Daniel Wilkey, who was filmed baptizing a woman in Soddy Lake as an alternative to issuing her a ticket in February 2019 Riley's $11million lawsuit claims that Hamilton County Sheriff's Deputy Daniel Wilkey (left) told her that he 'felt the spirit' and was ordered by God to baptize her. She accuses his partner, Deputy Jacob Goforth (right) of failing to intervene or report the incident According to the lawsuit, Wilkey allegedly offered to give Riley only a citation instead of arresting her for marijuana remnants found in her car if she agreed to be baptized. Riley later reported feeling 'horribly violated' by the experience. Riley sued both the Hamilton County and deputies Jacob Goforth and Daniel Wilkey, claiming that she was deprived of her constitutionally protected rights to freedom of religion, to be free from injury or harm while in custody, and to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. The lawsuit also lists counts of negligence, battery, assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Wilkey and Goforth pulled over her vehicle at around 10pm at night on suspicion of methamphetamine possession as she arrived at a friend's house to visit her young child. The lawsuit alleges that Wilkey proceeded to conduct a search by 'feeling through her clothes, her breasts, abdomen, buttocks, inner thighs and crotch.' Riley says the deputy also requested that she reach under her shirt and pull out her bra. The search concluded with the deputies discovering a single marijuana cigarette in Riley's 2016 Chrysler 300. The traffic stop then took an unexpected turn when Wilkey allegedly asked Riley if she was 'saved' and believed in Jesus Christ. According to the complaint, the deputy informed the woman that he 'felt the spirit' during the search, and that God was talking to him and wanted him to baptize Riley. The deputy then allegedly instructed Riley to go to her friend's home and grab two towels for the baptism. He then made Riley an offer, saying that he would let her off with a criminal citation instead of taking her to jail, and even put in a good word with a judge, if she let him baptize her, according to the court filing. Riley went to get the towels and followed the deputy to Soddy Lake, where he proceeded to strip down to his underwear, while she refused to take off her clothes. With Deputy Goforth acting as a 'witness,' Wilkey allegedly dunked the woman beneath the cold water by holding her by her neck and breasts. Temperatures that night were in the 50s in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee. The lawsuit says that after the 'baptism,' Riley was left shivering uncontrollably and feeling 'horribly violated.' The family of Riley - who passed away in 2022 of an overdose - is set to receive $100,000 from Hamilton County, pending approval from the County Commissioners Plaintiff's attorney Robin Flores told WRCB-TV that Deputy Goforth did nothing to stop his partner and was seen smirking at his client during the ordeal. He also allegedly failed to report the incident to his superiors after the fact. Wilkey also faces an unrelated excessive force lawsuit seeking $17million, which was filed by a man claiming that the deputy and another colleague performed an inappropriate body cavity search in July 2019. Wilkey faced numerous charges related to this incident and others, but all charges were subsequently dropped. In court, he admitted to baptizing Riley but claimed she had requested it unprompted, expressing a desire to 'turn away from her life of drug abuse and crime.' Tragically, Riley died of an overdose in April 2022, with one individual facing charges in connection with her death. The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office initially moved to decertify Wilkey with Tennessee's POST Commission but later rescinded the request. Sheriff Austin Garrett stated that Wilkey had not been employed by the HCSO since December 27, 2019, and was ineligible for re-hire. This case is not the only legal matter involving Wilkey. A lawsuit claims Tennessee Officer Daniel Wilkey forced an anal cavity search on James Mitchell on July 10 Wilkey was sued for the incident where he is seen on dashcam footage slamming James Myron Mitchell (pictured) on the hood of a patrol car, kneeing him in the stomach, and repeatedly pulling at his pants as a female companion watches on HCSO deputy Bobby Brewer is the second cop seen on camera and is also being sued in the lawsuit where plaintiffs seek $2,000,000 in compensatory damages, and $15,000,000 punitive damages This comes just a month after a Hamilton County Grand Jury cleared him in a separate lawsuit alleging an unauthorized strip search in 2019. He was accused of conducting a forced anal cavity search on a motorist, according to a lawsuit. Deputies Goforth and Wilkey are seen on dashcam footage slamming James Myron Mitchell, 41, on the hood of the patrol car, kneeing him in the stomach, and repeatedly pulling at his pants as a female companion watches on. At one point Mitchell complains of hernia pain as his genitals are grabbed but the officers continued to treat him roughly and he is heard wailing when dragged out of the camera frame. 'Wilkey handcuffed James, and the individual Defendants took James to the front of one of their police vehicles,' the September 3 lawsuit states about the same officer from February's alleged baptizing incident. 'Wilkey then began to grab James' genitals. When James told Wilkey that James had an untreated and large hernia and that Wilkey's actions were causing James pain, Brewer and Wilkey jerked James' arms high above his back, and slammed James face-down onto the hot engine hood, causing injury to James.' The brutal action takes place in the first five minutes of a one hour, 13 minutes clip shared online in July in the days after the incident. Wilkey allegedly stripped down to his underwear on a brisk night in February and dunked Riley in Soddy Lake (pictured) after promising to let her off with a citation for pot possession What appears to be Wilkey conducting an anal cavity search occurs around 10 minutes and 55 seconds of the clip. At one point the law enforcement officer appears to punch Mitchell on his rear end and yells, 'Hold still!' 'Wilkey and Brewer then beat James with fists, knees, and feet, slammed James to the ground, and continued their brutalization of James,' the filing continues. 'Wilkey and Brewer then removed James' pants and shoes, while still beating James. Wilkey and Brewer then forced James' face back onto the hot hood of the same police vehicle and continued to jerk his arms high above his back, and beat James. 'While Brewer continued to force James' face back onto the hot hood of the same police vehicle and jerk his arms high above his back Wilkey donned a set of gloves, pulled down James' underwear, and conducted an anal cavity search of James.' While a judge dismissed a 44-count criminal indictment against Wilkey last year, some civil lawsuits against him remain active. The proposed settlement is scheduled for a vote by Hamilton County Commissioners during their weekly meeting this Wednesday. A woman's face was beaten off by her domestic abuser ex-boyfriend after he was released from a Nashville jail despite viciously-beating her. Lauren Johansen is said to have been fatally-mutilated by her domestic abuser ex Bricen Rivers, 23, after he was wrongly allowed to leave a Tennessee lock-up and travel to Mississippi to attack her earlier this month. He was in jail for attacking his ex late last year, it is alleged. 'He beat her so badly that her skull and her face pretty much became fractured from the rest of her body,' Johansen's father Dr. Lance Johansen told WDAM. 'He basically beat her until the front of her head came off. No human being deserves to have this happen to them.' Rivers, who was charged in the brutal death of his ex-girlfriend, faced Forrest County Judge Gay Polk-Payton on Friday. He was denied bond and will remain in jail, giving his alleged victim's grieving father some relief. Lauren Johansen's face is said to have been beaten off by her ex-boyfriend, who has now been charged with her murder An emotional Dr. Lance Johansen spoke about his daughter's gruesome killing and said 'no human being deserves to have this happen to them' Rivers was arrested in Nashville in December 2023 after viciously beating the nursing student while the couple were on vacation after going into a jealous rage. Seven months after being locked up, he was 'mistakenly' released from jail, and returned to Mississippi where he reportedly carried out his ex-girlfriend's murder. Nashville prosecutors have conceded Rivers should not have been freed by a judge during a bail hearing. During Friday's 30-minute court proceedings, Forrest County Assistant District Attorney Clay Cranfold listed Rivers' current charges as first-degree murder, grand larceny auto and tampering with evidence. Forrest County District Attorney Lin Carter told WDAM 7News that 'we made a strong argument against bond.' The court went along with our argument, and he received no bond on the murder, and then he received a $20,000 bond on the grand larceny auto and the tampering with evidence.' When the judge asked Rivers if he was out on bond at the time of the murder, the suspect told him 'no, not to my knowledge,' but the ADA intervened and told the judge - Rivers was out on bond for beating his then-girlfriend nearly to death when the couple were in Nashville together. Lauren's father called Rivers a 'pathological liar.' Dr. Lance said, that he 'misled the judge here (Friday). He misled the judge there before, and I think the bottom line is, you cannot take a criminals word for saying the right thing.' In 2022, Rivers had a drug trafficking charge in Harrison County, and a year later was faced with kidnapping and stalking charges that were revoked on Friday, as per the news outlet. Bricen Rivers, 23, brutally beat his then-girlfriend Lauren Johansen while the couple were away in Nashville, Tennessee in December 2023. He is pictured in a mugshot by the Metro Nashville Police Department Rivers mugshot taken by the Harrison County Sheriff's Office on July 4 after he was accused of killing his ex-girlfriend Lauren Johansen Rivers and Lauren had dated in high school. Rivers allegedly killed her nine days after his release from prison Prosecutors said new evidence reveals that Rivers committed the murder in Forrest County, and tried to clean the car to shield the evidence before driving the car to Harrison County, a report said. Lauren's physician father discovered his daughter's body in the backseat of the car on July 3rd. He described it as 'brutally mutilated.' The distraught father spoke about the miscarriage of justice that led to his daughter's savage murder but felt some comfort on Friday knowing that Rivers will stay locked up in a detention facility. He said, in part, that he already feels 'some relief knowing that' and said, 'this is some justice for me.' 'And Im confident that hes never going to see the light of day again,' Johansen said. 'This mans not done killing people, and if he has a chance, hell kill somebody in in jail.' Exclusive photos obtained by DailyMail.com show the petite young woman riddled with bruises and her face so bloody and swollen she was barely recognizable. Lauren's wounds were cataloged by her father, an orthopedic surgeon, who wanted the courts to see what Rivers was capable of as he awaited trial on kidnapping and stalking charges. Lance was so worried for his 'wonderful, kind' daughter's safety that he attended the preliminary hearing to warn a Davidson County judge that Rivers would 'finish the job' if he ever got out of jail. Judge Cheryl Blackburn, a longtime Democrat jurist, later decided to lower the alleged attacker's bond from $250,000 to $150,000, paving the way for his June 24 release. Just nine days after he posted bond and walked free, Lauren was found beaten to death in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Rivers was arrested on suspicion of murdering her. 'You can see what happened when he hit her 100 times back in December so just imagine what he did to her when nobody was around to save her,' Lance told DailyMail.com, fighting tears. The heartbroken dad-of-four, a respected orthopedic surgeon, added: 'I realize people have rights but you can't just let loose a wild animal.' Gruesome photos published for the first time by DailyMail.com show Mississippi nursing student Lauren Johansen's brutal injuries after she was beaten by ex-boyfriend Bricen Rivers in December 'They knew he was a psychopath; they knew he was going to kill her if he got out. I warned them how this was going to play out and they went ahead and did it anyway.' Lauren described as popular and bubbly grew up in Gulfport where she started dating Rivers, the star player on his high school football team. Their relationship was plagued by violent episodes and by the time she headed off to the University of Southern Mississippi she was determined to call it quits. Her family claim 'obsessed' Rivers stalked her on and off for years, breaking into her apartment and starting fights with any men she tried to date. They were shocked to learn late last year that Lauren had reconciled with Rivers and gone on vacation with him to Nashville, a decision Lance puts down to his daughter suffering from 'battered woman syndrome'. The pair played Topgolf and attended a museum before Rivers flew into a drunken rage on December 11 and accused Lauren of having sex with a bartender, according to a police report. Rivers snatched Lauren's phone so she couldn't call for help and drove to a parking lot where he allegedly clubbed her with a pistol and pulled out chunks of her hair. He held her captive inside the vehicle for an hour until his mom, Chelsa Rivers, overheard screaming in the background on a call to her son and tipped off cops to their location, according to court filings. Officers arrived to find 'traumatized' Lauren in just her bra and panties, screaming and banging on the window for help and calling for her father. She was 'severely beaten, her eye was swollen shut and she also had a severe laceration to her forehead,' according to cops. A gun was found on the floor of the couple's rental car which can be seen spattered with blood in exclusive DailyMail.com images. Lauren and Lance attended a preliminary hearing on December 18 where he testified that his eldest daughter had been 'hit over 100 times' and he feared for her life if Rivers ever got to her again. The gun-obsessed bully languished in jail for four months before his lawyers filed a motion in March asking Judge Blackburn to reduce his bond. She noted in an April 3 order there was a 'high likelihood of conviction' due to police body camera footage and audio recordings from inside the car. Nonetheless the judge concluded that a 'bond of $150,000 is appropriate in this case' noting that 'it does not appear that Mr. Rivers has any prior criminal history.' DailyMail.com has located records and a mugshot indicating Rivers was arrested in January 2021 in Hancock County, Mississippi for DUI. He was also arrested in October 2022 for auto burglary in nearby Harrison County and again in December 2022 for possession and trafficking of a controlled substance. Stephen Hayslip, Director of Communications for the Davidson County District Attorney's Office told DailyMail.com that it contested the reduced bond but didn't flag up any prior arrests. He said this was because Assistant District Attorneys working the case were not aware of any criminal convictions and that arrests that did not result in convictions wouldn't be considered evidence of prior criminality. Despite Lauren and her father's pleas to keep Rivers behind bars, Judge Cheryl Blackburn would ultimately agree to lower is bond, noting that 'it does not appear that Mr. Rivers has any prior criminal history' Judge Blackburn graduated from the Nashville School of Law in 1979 and has been on the city's bench since 1996. She was expected to retire in 2021 after suffering a stroke but stayed on and won re-election a year later. The judge has not commented publicly on the Rivers case and when DailyMail.com asked if she would be willing to do so, an assistant snapped: 'It's a no comment. The office as a whole has no comment.' Authorities face further questions over exactly how Rivers was monitored after his family paid $15,000 to secure his release via a company named Brooke's Bonding. Judge Blackburn's order, which was signed by the defendant, said he was barred from leaving Davidson County and should be 'placed on electronic monitoring'. Freedom Monitoring Services, the company involved in keeping tabs on Rivers, didn't appear to know he was supposed to stay in the Nashville area, however, according to reporting by News Channel 5. DailyMail.com understands that the local accommodation lined up for Rivers fell through and he went back to Mississippi to live with family instead. Lance wasn't notified that Rivers was at large until June 28 and it wasn't until July 2 that a hearing was hastily convened to figure out what had happened. By then it was too late. Advertisement General Hospital star Haley Pullos finished a three-months jail sentence for DUI Monday but was then immediately placed on probation for five years and ordered to work 200 hours of community service. The glamorous 26-year-old actress who pleaded no contest in April to driving the wrong way on a Los Angeles freeway while she was drunk and high, causing a near-fatal crash also lost her drivers license for a year and must complete a nine-month alcohol education program and undergo mental health treatment. The sentence was handed down by Judge Terry Smerling at a court hearing in Pasadena, California, where he also ordered Pullos to pay more than $8,000 in restitution to the injured driver whose car she smashed into. Pullos who let her long blonde hair flow over orange jump suit prior to being released later in the day was warned by the judge never to drink and drive again. And, he added, God forbid you cause an accident in the future and somebody dies, you will be charged with murder. General Hospital star Haley Pullos, 26, appeared in court on Monday in an orange jump suit as she was released from jail and placed on probation Pullos appeared to be in better spirits as she left the courthouse, although she stepped out to freedom in a decidedly unglamorous black, paper jail release suit About an hour after Mondays brief hearing, smiling Pullos was released from a side gate of the Pasadena courthouse, telling DailyMail.com exclusively, Im very happy to be going home.' Wearing a black paper jail release suit and sunglasses and holding a book from Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series and a carton of orange juice, she ran into the arms of her waiting parents, Alex and Judy Pullos, hugging them as she cried tears of joy at being free after 90 days behind bars. Also greeting her was a bearded man believed to be one of her two brothers who was holding the family dog, and actress Nancy Lee Grahn, 68 who played Pullos's mother on General Hospital. Thank you so much for coming, Pullos told Grahn before heading off with her parents in a gray Ford Fusion. Earlier in the proceedings, Judge Smerling granted Pullos her request to take a two week trip out of the country in the fall with her parents, Alex and Judy Pullos, who were in court as their daughter was released. Pullos who prosecutors said had a blood alcohol level of 0.25 per cent, more than three times the legal limit originally pleaded not guilty to two DUI charges and another count of hit-and-run following the April 2023 accident. Although she was freed, the 26-year-old also lost her drivers license for a year and must complete a nine-month alcohol education program and undergo mental health treatment Pullos beamed as she hugged her parents following the brief hearing Pullos also embraced her 'TV mom' - actress Nancy Lee Grahn, who played Pullos' mother on General Hospital - outside the courthouse as she was released on Monday Pulos's father brought her a change of clothes so sshe could discard the black paper jail release ssuit But in a deal with LAs District Attorney, she changed her plea to no contest on one DUI and in exchange, the DA dropped the other one plus the hit and run. Pullos who started playing Molly Lansing-Davis on the popular daytime soap opera when she was 11 was also ordered Monday to pay $8,260 in restitution to 24 year-old Courtney Wilder, whose car she collided head-on with on the 134 Ventura Freeway in Pasadena. Wilder, who was rushed in critical condition to a local hospital to undergo emergency surgery, is now suing the actress in civil court, seeking damages for negligence. Pullos was charged with a first count of felony DUI causing injury and a second of driving with over 0.08 blood alcohol content causing injury. The first count was the one that was dismissed in the plea deal. Also dismissed was a hit-and-run charge resulting from Pullos running into a parked car just before the freeway crash. But though prosecutors dropped that count, she will still have to pay restitution to the owner of the car she damaged. Police say that Pullos, who was dropped from General Hospital a month after the accident, drove her white 2019 Ford Fusion westbound on to the eastbound 134 Freeway and smashed into Wilders Kia which was traveling east at 60mph. The scene after Pullos collided with another motorist in a head-on collision in April 2023 Moments before the horror crash, Pullos and hit a parked car as she drove erratically through Pasadena, California Earlier this year, Pullos pleaded no contest in April to driving the wrong way on a Los Angeles freeway while she was drunk and high, causing a near-fatal crash Pullos gives the family dog a kiss as she reunites with her family after three months in jail Pullos is best known for her roles in General Hospital, House and The Collector Weeks after the crash Pullos announced she was taking a break from General Hospital in which she played Molly Lansing-Davis who dated TJ Ashford played by Tajh Bellow Both cars were completely wrecked and when first responders arrived, say cops, Pullos was unable to get out of her car, so firefighters had to use the jaws of life to prise her out. Several mini bottles of tequila, plus edible marijuana wrappers were reportedly found in her car. At Monday's hearing, Judge Terry Smerling warned the actress that if she caused 'an accident in the future and somebody dies, you will be charged with murder' And police at the crash scene reported that she smelled of alcohol and had slurred speech and glassy eyes. Wilder accuses Pullos in his lawsuit of attacking and abusing first responders in a rage at the accident site, and even hitting and yelling at a fireman for touching her expensive designer shirt. Haley Pullos acted maliciously and without any regard for the safety of others, as evidenced by her rage when she was pulled from her vehicle by first responders, said Wilder in a written declaration to the court. She acted maliciously by attacking the officers and yelling profanities in front of witnesses and directed toward those who were trying to help her,' Wilder said in court papers. In her fit of rage, Haley Pullos battered a firefighter and yelled at him to take his hands off her $400 f***ing shirt." Haley's parents, Akex and Judy Pullos, look on as their daughter appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday When she was arrested, prosecutors Pullos had a blood alcohol level of 0.25 per cent, more than three times the legal limit Pullos seen leaving court, where she walked free on probation was ordered to pay more than $8,000 in restitution to the driver whose car she smashed into Despite having just caused two accidents, one of which resulted in serious, life-threatening injuries, she cared more about her overpriced clothing than she did the safety and all-being of the victim of her reckless, intentional and despicable conduct. As more evidence of her abhorrent behavior, Haley Pullos continued to fight medical staff and was forced to be sedated. Not only was she driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, but she was drinking behind the wheel, as evidenced by the edible wrappers and empty alcohol bottles which were found in her vehicle, Wilder added. Pullos who was spotted by DailyMail.com checking into a luxury rehab facility in Malibu a few weeks after the crash is fighting Wilders civil lawsuit against her, insisting it was he who was to blame, not her. And she is asking the judge to dismiss the suit and order Wilder to pay her legal fees. In January, Wilder added Pasadenas No Comment Lounge where Pullos was working as a hostess the night of the accident as a defendant in his civil lawsuit, accusing the popular nightspot of plying her with booze, then letting her drive herself home. Wilder is also suing the State of California Transportation Department, claiming the road where the accident happened is in dangerous condition. A veteran Scottish Tory MSP has been accused of being distracted by constitutional wrangling after proposing an independent commission to consider a breakaway party. Murdo Fraser, who previously lost a leadership contest when he stood on a pledge to split the Scottish Tories from the UK party, yesterday confirmed he still wants to consider a separate party being set up at Holyrood. He said an independent commission should consider the issue after the leadership contest, with any changes being introduced after the next Scottish Parliament elections in 2026. But the move was condemned by party grandee Lord Michael Forsyth, who said MSPs should focus on reviving support rather than being submerged in constitutional wrangling. Former Scottish Secretary Lord Michael Forsyth has urged Murdo Fraser to take his proposals to split the party 'off the table' Russell Findlay, the early favourite to be the next leader, also said a split must be off the table. Lord Forsyth, a former Scottish Secretary, said: We are the Conservative and Unionist Party and we should fight as a unionist party in all our elections on both sides of the border. I just think it is a complete diversion from what is necessary, which is to build up our membership and our organisations in the constituencies and to set out what it is we believe in and how we will address the problems which are substantial and which are relevant to every family in the country. Having just suffered a pretty catastrophic defeat, I think the last thing we should be doing is being submerged in constitutional wrangling and instead setting out a coherent reason on why people should support Conservatives who are concerned about education, health, law and order, defence and other issues. Murdo is a really good guy and I would rather he was applying his mind to those issues which matter to most people, rather than thinking that simply by indulging in organisational change is going to make people rush out and vote Conservative in Scotland. It simply isnt. Mr Fraser, a veteran MSP who lost to Ruth Davidson in 2011 and has not yet confirmed if he will stand in the contest, said his original proposal for a completely separate party similar to relations in Germany between the national Christian Democrats and the Christian Social Union in Bavaria was too radical for most Tory members and he no longer supports it. But he said a separate Canada-style model - which would see the UK Conservative and Unionist Party fight general elections in Scotland while a separate Scottish Tory party fights for seats at Holyrood - potentially gives a best of both worlds scenario. He acknowledged the issue is divisive and that it would be impractical to make the changes before the next election in 2026, but still proposed a detailed examination of the issue. Murdo Fraser believes the Scottish Conservatives should be separate to the UK party Mr Findlay, the current Scottish Conservative justice spokesman, said he would support a review of relations with the UK party but rejected any prospect of this considering a separate party. He said: Of course we should regularly review how our party works, as we have in the past. That is only sensible. However, in any future review, splitting the party must be off the table. We should not consider breaking away from the UK Conservative family or splitting off to form a new Holyrood only party. The Scottish Conservatives need to focus on building a positive policy platform for 2026 and beyond, not endless debates about breakaway parties. If Mr Fraser opts against standing for the leadership, his proposal to set up an independent commission to consider a breakaway party at Holyrood is likely to be considered by another leadership candidate who favours the idea of a split. Mr Fraser yesterday claimed that Jamie Greene, Liam Kerr and Mr Findlay have all previously said links between the UK and Scottish Tories should be examined. Current deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, who is likely to stand in the leadership contest, said she fully supports the call for a commission to examine links between the UK and Scottish Conservatives and a reset of relations - but highlighted an article in which she said she cant see any benefit from breaking away. Meanwhile, Brian Whittle, a former Olympian and current West of Scotland MSP, announced he will stand in the leadership contest, which he said should be when we decide how we pick ourselves up and prepare for the next race. New species of Paraphlomis found in south China Xinhua) 10:17, July 29, 2024 This undated file photo shows a new plant species, Paraphlomis baiwanensis, found in a nature reserve in south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua) GUANGZHOU, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Researchers recently described a new plant species, Paraphlomis baiwanensis, found in a nature reserve in south China's Guangdong Province. The findings have been published in the international journal of plant taxonomy, PhytoKeys. A scientific expedition team spotted an unknown species from the Lamiaceae family during an in-depth biodiversity survey across several karst mountains in 2023 in Qingyuan City, Guangdong. Following a year-long field investigation and research based on morphology, molecular phylogeny, and population genetics, the team confirmed it as a new species and named it "Paraphlomis baiwanensis W.Y. Zhao, Y.P. Chen &Q. Fan." Currently, only one population of fewer than 100 individuals has been found, growing on limestone mountains at an altitude of approximately 300 meters in the Baiwan Provincial Nature Reserve in Qingxin District of Qingyuan, according to Fan Qiang, an associate professor at the School of Life Sciences at Sun Yat-sen University and one of the authors of the paper. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) A forecaster known as the 'Nostradamus' of presidential elections has revealed who is currently best placed to win the White House in November. Professor Allan Lichtman of American University has accurately called the winner of nearly every presidential election since President Reagan's reelection in 1984. Lichtman updated his complicated prediction model to reflect President Joe Biden dropping out of the race and Vice President Kamala Harris become the presumptive Democratic nominee. Based on his model which includes thirteen factors, or 'keys' as he calls them, Harris is currently on course for victory with less than 100 days to go before Election Day. Professor Allen Lichtman believes Kamala Harris is on track to win the election this November against Donald Trump despite the shake-up at the top of the Democratic presidential ticket Lichtman's model measures factors against the party currently in the White House, which at this time is the Democrats. He said he will make his official prediction for the election next month, but Harris has a majority of his keys leaning in her favor to win. 'I plan to make my official prediction in August after the Democratic convention,' Lichtman wrote on X. 'See my assessment below on the 13 Keys Tracker on where The Keys stand NOW.' The factors giving Harris the advantage include that she did not face a primary challenger, there has been little threat from third party candidates so far, and the economy is strong in the short and long term. With the switch to Harris, the White House also hasn't made a major policy change and the vice president is not facing a scandal or major social unrest. Lichtman noted that with the transition from Biden to Harris as the presumptive nominee last week, the Democrats have lost one advantage: the incumbency factor. Professor Allan Lichtman has successfully predicted the winner of every presidential election since 1984 With Harris and Trump set to face off, the professor views this race is essentially open now. But he noted Democrats were able to prevent some further fallout with its shakeup with the party overwhelmingly rallying behind Harris rather than kicking off a chaotic open primary or having other presidential hopefuls jumping into the race at this late stage. 'I have not made a final prediction. I've said I will make it after the Democratic convention,' Lichtman told C-SPAN. 'But I have said for months, and I continue to say a lot would have to go wrong for Democrats to lose,' he added. 'That could happen, but a lot would have to change.' President Biden speaking on July 29, 2024. Professor Lichtman said the president dropping out of the race on July 21 has not fundamentally changed his forecast on who will win the November election as of now Lichtman also said the new energy injected into the Harris campaign could have a positive effect on several keys for her including less people voting for third party candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. and it could further stall social unrest. 'It has a mixed result, Biden's dropping out, and the presumptive nomination of Harris,' he said. 'But it doesn't fundamentally change my assessment that a lot would have to go wrong for the Democrats to lose.' Lichtman's forecast comes as polls show the presidential race remains extremely close with Harris at the top of the ticket. An average of the latest polls shows Trump up less than two points, according to Real Clear Politics. When it comes to the polls out of key battleground states, there is also a tight race between Trump and Harris now that Biden is off the Democratic ticket. But the latest polling does show there has been a jump in enthusiasm among Democrats as Lichtman noted. Harris' approval since becoming the presumptive presidential nominee has also jumped in recent days. A woman recorded a series of heartbreaking messages as she prepared to die after travelling to the Netherlands for an assisted death. Edina Slayter-Engelsman lived in Aberdeenshire for 30 years before returning to her homeland after four years of 'unbearable' suffering due to an incurable illness. The 57-year-old who used to be a keen hillwalker, cyclist and swimmer, was struck down with ME, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome, in 2020. Within weeks it left her bedbound, and in one of her last moving recorded messages she told how it was a 'relief' that Dutch medics recognised there was no other treatments and she could 'die with dignity'. ME sufferer Edina Slayter-Engelsman travelled to the Netherlands so she could 'die with dignity' She described the condition, which can cause extreme tiredness and leave patients unable to perform basic daily tasks, as like living in a 'spider's web'. She said: 'Every time you try to get out, the web just gets tighter and tighter around you. 'This disease has taken everything from me. I feel trapped physically, cognitively and emotionally. 'I exist but I don't live and this condition has become unbearable to me and has been for a long time now, to the point where I want to end my life.' And she stressed she was not alone. She said: 'There are a lot of people like me, they don't get seen, they don't get heard because they can't. They are stuck at home, often in their bedroom. There is no help but there should be.' Ms Slayter-Engelsman returned to the Netherlands, where euthanasia and assisted suicide are legal for citizens under strict controls, last year. Her family shared her messages with the BBC to raise awareness of her condition just months before Scottish ministers are due to discuss a proposed assisted suicide bill this autumn. The bill put forward by Lib Dem MSP Liam McArthur would, unlike the Dutch law, be limited to adults who are dying of a terminal illness, not those suffering from a severe long-term condition. But in one of her final messages Ms Slayter-Engelsman said the recognition of her suffering by the Dutch medics and that there were no further treatment options was a 'relief'. She added: 'On the one hand I am very sad about this of course, but on the other hand I feel a huge sigh of relief that I am allowed to die with dignity.' The condition, for which there is no known cure or cause, is believed to affect at least 250,000 people in the UK, with the symptoms varying from mild to severe. After a year of psychological and psychiatric assessments, doctors administered Ms Slayter-Engelsman a lethal injection. She died with her husband, two sons and close family by her side. University of Edinburgh Professor Chris Ponting, who is leading the world's largest study into the causes of ME, described her death as a 'tragedy'. He said: 'She is not the first who has taken this decision and unhappily she will not be the last.' He said ME predominantly affects older women. But he added 'that section of society is not a section of society that has been well treated' and he believed if this was an illness with a 'male bias' it would have had 'far greater attention'. He said: 'It is not rare at all, but the amount of funding [it gets] is 2 or 3 per person per year. The figures speak for themselves.' He expects to have the results of the DecodeME genetic study, which has involved examining DNA from more than 20,000 participants, in the next six months. Professor Ponting hopes the findings will help focus research on specific causes which will in turn lead to improved treatments. The Scottish Government said last night it recognise how 'distressing and debilitating' sever ME can be and said it wants to 'make sure' patients can access the care and support they need to manage their condition. A spokesman added: 'We are currently updating health board data on ME/CFS care in Scotland with the aim of identifying areas where there is potential to progress service development.' Oakland residents are fuming after being forced to cross an eight-lane highway, with their local lawmaker accused of being too work-shy to clear a homeless encampment blocking the riverside path. Pedestrians have published angry online posts slamming city council president Nikki Fortunato Bas for failing to clear up the tents and belongings which obstruct the scenic waterway bike path. Local blogger Roger Rudick described the situation as 'infuriating'. 'There shouldn't be a need to cross Lake Merritt Boulevard by foot or bike in the first place,' Rudick wrote on SF Streets Blog. 'The city built a lovely bike and pedestrian path over a decade ago along the channel that goes under both Lake Merritt Boulevard and the Nimitz Freeway. 'Unfortunately, it's been unusable for a couple of years now. The path is completely blocked by encampments, discarded trash, and even parked cars.' Oakland pedestrians are fuming after being forced to cross an eight-lane highway because their local lawmaker is 'too lazy' to clear a homeless encampment blocking the riverside path Oakland residents have published angry blog posts to slam the city council president Nikki Fortunato Bas (pictured) for failing to clear up the tents and belongings which obstruct the scenic waterway bike path Instead, pedestrians must navigate the dangerous eight-lane Lake Merritt Boulevard, where the wide lanes and relative scarcity of traffic encourages motorists to hurtle down the highway at breakneck speed. Locals also fumed about the encampment blockage on Reddit, saying it had been 'complained about for years'. 'I'm fairly tolerant and usually walk around and pass through,' one person wrote. 'Have gone this route for years on the way back to Lake Merritt Bart station. 'The encampment has permanently closed off with a stop sign a gate and "Not walkable" sign! 'That's a whole new level of entitlement. How and why is this allowed? I tried anyway and the guy started yelling at me and told me to walk around.' Others also shared stories of being yelled away from the area and even threatened with a guard dog. Several placed the blame squarely on president Bas' shoulders, including Rudick who warned it was only a matter of time before a serious accident happened on the eight-lane highway as a result of so many pedestrians having to pour over it. He said the progressive lawmaker appeared unwilling to work hard enough to make her constituents' lives better and tackle difficult issues. Bas's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Oakland as a whole has become synonymous with mass looting, rampant crime and more than 170 sprawling homeless encampments that cover entire city blocks. Oakland has become synonymous with mass looting, rampant crime and sprawling homeless encampments that cover entire city blocks Oakland as a whole has become synonymous with mass looting, rampant crime and more than 170 sprawling homeless encampments that cover entire city blocks One of the largest encampments is sprawled alongside the 880 freeway across from the citys famous Embarcadero. A stones throw from downtown is another huge encampment with a sign that welcomes visitors to the ghost town while another, set up in an underpass, has a huge graffitied sign that reads: F*** this dystopia. As a result, the citys progressive mayor Sheng Thao and DA Pamela Price are both facing recall elections in November. Thao's progressive policies have been blamed for worsening in crime, with her involvement in an FBI-probed pay-to-play probe miring her in further scandal. Price has also infuriated Oaklanders with her insistence on prosecuting criminals 'equitably' in a city where one in every 30 residents had their car stolen last year. In February, California Governor Gavin Newsom was forced to flood the city with California Highway Patrolmen in a bid to shore up the citys flailing police department left leaderless for over a year due to Thaos decision to fire Chief LeRonne Armstrong after he turned whistleblower. But despite their efforts, crime has continued to shoot up with burglaries up 23 per cent compared to last year and motor vehicle thefts up by a whopping 44 per cent. Meanwhile, the homeless population now stands at a record 5,490 double what it was 10 years ago with 67 per cent of the unhoused living in camps on the street. Staff at a facility for abused women and children unknowingly sheltered a transgender woman for weeks before she stabbed a warden so viciously her 'internal organs were exposed', police say. Michelle Silva Perez was offered a place at Shepherd's Gate in Greenville, South Carolina, less than four miles from a men's shelter also run by Miracle Hill Ministries. The 36-year-old had been evicted the evening before for 'not following the guidelines of the facility' but returned on July 18 armed with a sword before nearly disemboweling a staffer called Kirby. 'We found out last night that this attacker, who had been a resident at Shepherd's Gate for a few weeks, was in fact a male,' Miracle Hill Ministries CEO Ryan T. Duerk said in a statement that night. 'Let me assure you that we did not know this or suspect it, and Shepherd's Gate followed all their procedures for intake appropriately.' Michelle Silva Perez was offered a place at Shepherd's Gate in Greenville, South Carolina, less than four miles from a men's shelter also run by Miracle Hill Ministries The 36-year-old had been evicted the evening before for 'not following the guidelines of the facility' but returned on July 18 armed with a sword Police were called at 11am when witnesses reported seeing saw Perez push the woman to the ground before stabbing her in the torso. The victim was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery where she remains in a stable condition. Witnesses reported seeing saw Perez push the woman to the ground before stabbing her in the torso Perez was arrested at the scene and has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime'. She was denied bond during a hearing last week and is currently being held at Greenville County Jail where she has been booked in as a male. Lieutenant Ryan Flood of the Greenville County Sheriff's Department said she is 'in isolation because she is still transitioning to being a woman'. The case echoes that of Harvey Marcelin, 84, who identifying as a transgender lesbian when she murdered Susan Leyden, 68, in the women's section of a New York homeless shelter in 2022. He had already been convicted of two previous homicides by the time he was admitted to the Sage Center at Stonewall House in Brooklyn where he was filmed stuffing Leyden's headless torso into a garbage bag and dumping it in a shopping cart. Separate store surveillance footage recorded Marcelin sitting on a severed human leg in his electric wheelchair. Last week it emerged that a transgender murderer who pleaded to be moved to a female prison because she was suffering 'chronic diarrhea' and stress had her request denied by a federal judge. Michelle Renee Lamb, 83, is serving three consecutive life sentences for abducting two women, strangling one to death and leaving her naked body in a field in 1969. She is currently being held at the Topeka Correctional Facility in Kansas, having moved from a men's prison in January 2023 when she had gender-affirming surgery. 'I also suffered frequent bouts of diarrhea. This was never a problem until I was put into this hateful environment,' Lamb - who previously identified as Thomas - said in the handwritten lawsuit. Harvey Marcelin, left, had already killed two women by the time he was admitted to the women's section of a New York homeless shelter where he murdered Susan Leyden in 2022 US District Judge John Lungstrum dismissed the case because Lamb failed to show she was being discriminated against, reported The Topeka Capital-Journal. 'Plaintiff has not shown that her housing assignment subjects her to atypical and significant hardship in relation to the ordinary incidents of prison life,' Lungstrum wrote. Duerk said that staff at the Shepherd's Gate center in Greenville had no reason to believe that Perez was transitioning before they granted her shelter, and said she would have been dealt with 'differently' had they known. 'All documentation was provided to ensure this individual was a viable candidate to stay in our women's facility,' he wrote. 'This is a terribly unfortunate series of events that we will learn and adapt from.' Talk show host Montel Williams took a dig at Donald Trump's presidential campaign in his latest burst of online activity since his long-ago romance with Kamala Harris resurfaced. 'A very weird tweet from an even weirder guy. Good morning yall!' wrote Williams, who briefly dated the vice president and now presumptive Democratic Party nominee two decades ago. He was responding to a post on X by Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung, who put the image online with the tagline: 'Montel Williams and his couch.' That post came after the AP posted and then retracted a fact-check on a false claim that Trump running mate J.D. Vance's book contains a passage about having sex with a couch (it contains no such passage). The tweet about Williams had no further explanation. Williams has been engaged in a flurry of online activity since Harris suddenly emerged as the presumed Democratic nominee after President Joe Biden announced he was stepping back and threw his endorsement to her. Last Sunday, he attracted notice for briefly appearing to shun his former flame with laudatory comments about Maryland Gov. Wes Moore shortly after Biden announced he was stepping back from his run to retain the White House. Talk host Montel Williams hit back at the Trump campaign following a post picturing him seated on a couch 'Ive watched @GovWesMoore lead my home state of Maryland, and I know leadership when I see it,' Williams posted on X. 'I'd love to see Wes Moore leading the ticket or otherwise on my ballot and Im ready to campaign.' That came around the same time conservative X users had resurected images of him appearing with Harris at celebrity events two decades ago when they were dating. Then he posted explanations online after his pitch for Moore, a telegenic pol who was being mentioned as a potential presidential contender, drew commentary online. 'Is anyone surprised I am interested in a politician who also went to the Naval Academy and whose leadership has impressed me?' he wrote. Then as Democrats consolidated around Harris, he clarified that he was ready to back the ultimate nominee. Montel Williams and Kamala Harris attended the Eighth Annual Race To Erase Multiple Sclerosis Benefit at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California on May 18, 2001. Williams have been hitting back after photos from when they were dating resurfaced online He retweeted Moore's own post endorsing Harris, and underlined it online. 'Reminding folks I RTd this,' he posted last Monday. Williams went after the Trump in a follow-up tweet Monday, complaining again about the couch image. Last week, in a post he later deleted, Williams went after Vance, posting video of Vance commenting about 'a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that theyve made so they want to make the rest of the country miserable too.' That came as Vance criticized Harris, who has step-children, among others who had not produced offspring and were making policy. 'When people tell you who they are, believe them,' he wrote in the deleted post, which linked to video shared by the Kamala HQ page. 'It's really weird that the spokesman for a major presidential candidate would go to my social media to grab a copyrighted photo of me sitting on a couch, projecting calmness, love for life, and passion for respecting the man I am today. I would think an official campaign spokesman would have more important things to do, but weirdos normally dont,' he wrote. His 'weird' attack also reflected a new tack from the Harris campaign, which has been using the adjective to try to characterize Trump himself. JK Rowling praised yesterday a High Court ruling upholding a ban on puberty blockers for trans children. The Harry Potter author and women's rights campaigner described the judgment as 'moving back to treatment for vulnerable youth based on evidence-based medicine'. Her comments came hours after a High Court judge ruled an emergency ban on the prescription of puberty blockers was lawful. Mrs Justice Lang dismissed a judicial review brought by trans activists who challenged an order banning puberty blockers under rarely-used measures. The order was imposed in May by then Tory health secretary Victoria Atkins. Campaign group TransActual had claimed Ms Atkins acted unlawfully by failing to properly consult the public. JK Rowling praised yesterday a High Court ruling upholding a ban on puberty blockers for trans children JK Rowling took to X/Twitter to express her views about the ruling Her comments came hours after a High Court judge ruled an emergency ban on the prescription of puberty blockers was lawful Mrs Justice Lang ruled the health secretary had 'reasonably considered that it was essential to make the order as soon as possible to protect children and young people from irresponsible prescribing of puberty blockers'. A consultation would have lasted five to six months and could have seen attempts to frustrate the system by beginning puberty blocker treatment before the ban came into force, the judge said. Ms Rowling wrote on X: 'High court rules the UK ban on puberty blockers is lawful. We seem, at last, to be moving back to treatment for vulnerable youth based on evidence-based medicine, as opposed to the unevidenced claims of ideological lobby groups.' Yesterday's ruling was also applauded by current Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who reaffirmed the conclusions set out in the landmark Cass Review. Mr Streeting said: 'Children's healthcare must be evidence-led. Dr Cass's review found there was insufficient evidence that puberty blockers are safe and effective for children with gender dysphoria and gender incongruence. 'We must therefore act cautiously and with care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people.' A protester at a Trans Pride march in London on July 27 holds a sign that calls the Secretary for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, a transphobe Women's rights groups hailed yesterday's decision and said 'Wes Streeting showed that the new government is determined to take an evidence-based approach to protecting the wellbeing of gender-distressed children' (pictured: Wes Streeting) Sir Keir Starmer also said 'evidence-led' care must be the basis for children's medicine. The PM's spokesman said: 'We are obviously pleased that the court has upheld the ban.' It comes after the Cass Review into gender identity services concluded in April that children had been set on the path to irreversible change on scant medical evidence. Dr Hilary Cass, who led the review, said gender medicine had been 'built on shaky foundations'. NHS clinics were banned from prescribing puberty blockers to children a month before the review's publication. But the ban did not extend to private clinics, with Dr Cass's review emphasising the loophole in the law. The emergency ban then sought to close the loophole that could be exploited by private clinics and European prescribers. Women's rights groups hailed yesterday's decision. Maya Forstater of Sex Matters, said: 'By keeping his predecessor's ban, Wes Streeting showed that the new government is determined to take an evidence-based approach to protecting the wellbeing of gender-distressed children.' Chay Brown of TransActual said the group was disappointed, adding: 'The judgment leans heavily on the discredited Cass review.' President Joe Biden summoned a bizarre comeback Monday when asked about Speaker Mike Johnson trashing his new Supreme Court plan calling the House Speaker 'dead on arrival.' Biden, who was back out in the country after stepping back and endorsing VP Kamala Harris as his party's presumptive nominee, made the comment on a trip to Texas to tout his plan that would impose 18-year term limits on the Supreme Court. That role put him back before the press, a week after his debate performance and subsequent interviews prompted top Democrats to push him to step back as his party's standard bearer. Johnson had earlier called his Supreme Court plan, which stands virtually no chance of overcoming a Senate filibuster or passing a Republican Congress, 'dead on arrival.' 'Thats what he is,' said when a reporter asked him a bout. The reporter asked for clarification on the comment. 'He is. Dead on arrival,' Biden repeated. President Joe Biden flew to Texas to pitch his plan to reform the Supreme Court. Asked about Speaker Mike Johnson calling his plan 'dead on arrival,' Biden called Johnson 'dead on arrival' Johnson also called it an effort to 'delegitimize the Court' and said the Republican House wouldn't take it up. He responded to Biden's comment Monday afternoon by posting a clip from Biden's debate against Donald Trump, when Trump ad-libbed: 'I really don't know what he said at the end of that sentence. I don't think he did either.' Biden cleaned up the comment during his speech at the LBJ library, where he recounted the speaker's comment. 'Well I think his thinking is dead on arrival,' Biden said. Biden's odd comment came moments after Biden smiled during an awkward tarmac greeting with Texas Democratic Rep. Lloyd Doggett, who was the first House member to call for him to step back from his reelection bid after his debate disaster. It was advice Biden eventually took after getting pressure from a host of lawmakers who feared he would lose and perhaps cost Democrats the House and Senate. His remarks came as the White House continues to feel its way forward on how it will handle an incumbent president who is stepping back from some of his political duties while Vice President Kamala Harris takes the reins admitting Monday it will recalibrate. "A major change happened in the past week. So we do have to recalibrate and figure out what the next six months are going to be. I mean thats just fair, right, for us to just figure that all out, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One You will see the president. He will be out there .. . we have to recalibrate and get a sense of what the next several months are going to be, she said. Monday had Biden reasserting his role as the current president, both by pitching a far-reaching policy idea with an op-ed, and being the public face of his own administration. Biden consulted with Harris on his plan to overhaul the Supreme Court his first major policy announcement since stepping back before Harris became the presumptive Party nominee, the White House said, after Harris got behind the plan publicly. 'He is. Dead on arrival,' Biden said of Speaker Mike Johnson, who called his own plan to impose a code of conduct and term limits on the court D.O.A. She was indeed involved in this. The president consulted her, she said. He certainly was listened to her expertise in this arena as well, Jean-Pierre said. Jean-Pierre spoke to Biden and Harris continued contacts, although she offered scant information on how Bidens role might change in the coming months as a lame duck finishing out his term while Harris takes on increased responsibility as her partys presumed nominee. They have a very close relationship. They engage regularly. They meet for lunch. They talk on the phone, she said. As for what role Biden might have in his partys convention next month in Chicago, Jean-Pierre offered little information. Im going to let the convention speak to that, she said. And she said the campaign would speak to Bidens travel on a week where he has nothing announced other than a speech Monday and attending a service for the late Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee in Houston. Biden also interacted with the press while leaving the White House mid-day Monday. He responded to a shouted question about how the Supreme Court should be reformed. 'Reform the Supreme Court because it needs to be reformed,' was his circular response. A successful marketing professional in Milan, Italy, has described how she fled Boston two decades ago and has yet to look back. Leslie Strazzullo, 55, moved from a suburb of Beantown in 2004, and has since made a name for herself in the world's fashion capital as a marketing manager. Her family's roots are in Italy, and she jumped at the chance to do an an exchange program with Bocconi Universitys business school while earning her MBA. She also had an internship with Italian tire and telecoms equipment manufacturer, Pirelli, and when she graduated, the firm offered her a full-time position heading marketing and communications for its telecoms business. In a piece penned for CNBC finance advice column Make It, she described how she's been in Milan ever since. Leslie Strazzullo, 55, moved from a suburb of Beantown in 2004, and has since made a name for herself in the world's fashion capital as a marketing manager A successful marketing professional, she moved to Milan in 2024, and has yet to look back 'Twenty years ago, when I was 35, I left my life in the greater Boston area to pursue a job opportunity in glamorous Milan,' Strazzullo wrote in the op-ed published Sunday. 'Prior to the move, I had earned my MBA from the University of South Carolina. During my studies, I did an exchange program with Bocconi Universitys business school and had an internship with Pirelli. 'I loved it,' she said. She went on to recall being offered the post of marketing communications manager at PGT Photonics S.P.A., which at the time was part of the Pirelli Company. Despite only knowing 'a few people' from her time as an intern, Strazzullo jumped at the chance, she writes - with the streets of Milan fresh in her mind. 'I didnt feel nervous, just excited at this new opportunity,' the current marketing communications lead at Abb, a prominent Swiss robotics and machine automation supplier, recalled. 'Ive been in Milan ever since.' Strazzullo has held several positions in that span, at three separate companies not including Pirelli. One of them was fan-maker Honeywell, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, more than 4,500 miles away. Her family's roots are in Italy, and she jumped at the chance to do an an exchange program with Bocconi Universitys business school while earning her MBA. An aerial view of Milan's Piazza Del Duomo at sunset is seen She worked there for more than 12 years, at times from home, and at times at the company's office on Via Alessandro Volta. Gathering experience as a marketing communications manager and customer marketing manager, she eventually took an 11-month break after the death of her life partner in in 2023, before assuming her current role at Abb, where she's been since March. The 20 years before, she said, saw her navigate universal stresses such as layoffs, buying a house, and surviving corporate life. She thus shared a few expert tips. The first, she said, was 'go with the flow.' 'I cannot tell you how many times I had to make and reschedule appointments in City Hall offices in order to get a tax number, for example, or an ID card to apply for a work permit,' she explained. 'The waits are long, the government workers are sometimes grumpy, and the system can be frustrating and complex on a good day - even when a company sponsors you, like mine did.' She said not to sweat 'the insignificant things', such as traffic and being late in rush hour. She also had an internship with Italian tire and telecoms equipment manufacturer, Pirelli, and when she graduated, the firm offered her a full-time position heading marketing and communications for its telecoms business 'My best advice, if youre trying to make a life here, is to go with the flow and take these administrative and bureaucratic quirks in stride. Its just the way it is.' Her second tip was another simple one - 'be determined.' To convey the concept, she described what she billed as 'a setback' - one that occurred five years into her Italy excursion. Pirrelli had sold their telecoms division, and Strazzullo was among several laid off. 'I was on a permesso di soggiorno (residence work permit), which allowed me one year to find another job,' she recalled. 'I was on the clock to find something new. Still, I was not discouraged. 'Finding a job as a foreigner came down strategic networking and, at times, determination,' she went on to write. She found that much how it is in the US, it 'is very much a who you know job market.' 'I networked with former colleagues, headhunters, and other business school alums,' she said. The Boston skyline is seen here. Strazzullo lived in a suburb just outside the city before relocating 'With a few months left on my permit, I received an offer to work for a U.S. multinational with offices in Italy. 'I was so glad that I hung in there and bet on myself and my life in Italy.' The third piece of counseling Strazzullo imparted was to learn how 'to work differently', adapting to your surrounding environment rather than remain stubborn in your old ways. 'One of the best things I ever did was to give up the expression, This is how we do things,' she wrote at a point in her piece. 'I had to embrace change to thrive in Italy, whether it was the awkwardness I felt using a new language... or navigating corporate life. 'It took me about two years to really feel comfortable with Italian,' she admitted. 'Ultimately, I learned valuable things about my peers and the business over a relaxing meal or coffee. 'I absorbed much more than I would have with my head down at my desk.' Her fourth and final tidbit was to learn how to budget for the life you, yourself, want, as she admitted, 'While Im in a solid place now, I did have to do some adjusting when it came to my finances. In the piece penned for CNBC finance advice column Make It , she described how she's been in Milan ever since while offering some seasoned tips 'Some expenses definitely surprised me early on, beyond the typical rent and utilities,' she recalled. For example, I didnt have a car when I first got here. I recall that it cost me close to 700 euros to get my drivers license. 'Americans are taxed based on citizenship and not residency, so Americans abroad need to report their taxes,' she continued. 'I make sure to use an accountant to help me handle my taxes now. 'Because of agreements between the U.S. and Italy, I am not taxed twice,' she pointed out. 'I do pay more taxes on my income in Italy (43 percent vs. 37 percent) than I would pay in the States, so I typically have a tax credit.' One final 'upside' she said she's seen since moving to Italy is its 'public healthcare system', which she has been given access to as well as 'supplementary private health insurance' from some of her previous employers. 'Money that I would otherwise put toward healthcare I can use for other needs and leisure activities,' as she put it. 'Ultimately, Im so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone 20 years ago,' she concluded by saying. 'Since then Ive had the opportunity to travel extensively and meet many wonderful people. 'Today, I feel fulfilled by the life and career I have built here.' Labour will repeal new Northern Ireland Legacy Act intended to protect soldiers Elderly veterans could face a fresh witch hunt after Labour confirmed it would repeal the new Northern Ireland Legacy Act. The legislation was intended to prevent soldiers being pursued over spurious claims relating to British military operations in the province decades ago. The move was championed by Conservative veterans minister Johnny Mercer to prevent troops being 'hounded to the grave' by lawyers. But the Act was opposed by Unionists who insisted any amnesty would deny them justice for crimes which were overlooked decades ago. Earlier this year, a Belfast court ruled that any immunity from prosecution would be in breach of the European Convention of Human Rights. The Northern Ireland Secretary Tony Benn has confirmed the government is to repeal the new Northern Ireland Legacy Act The Legacy Act was intended to prevent soldiers being pursued over spurious claims relating to British military operations in Northern Ireland decades ago The previous Conservative government said it would appeal the verdict but, yesterday, the Northern Ireland Secretary said it would not pursue the matter. Responding to a parliamentary question, Hilary Benn said: 'The declarations of incompatibility that the Government is no longer challenging include those relating to the conditional immunity provisions. 'These could - had they not been struck out by the High Court - have seen individuals granted immunity for providing information about Troubles-related deaths and serious injuries. 'This is the first step to repealing and replacing the Act. Victims and survivors felt ignored by the previous government's approach to legacy, which was clearly rejected by communities in Northern Ireland.' The Northern Ireland Legacy Act had been championed by former Conservative veterans minister Johnny Mercer to prevent troops being 'hounded to the grave' by lawyers Paul Young, from the Northern Ireland Veterans Movement, accused Labour of 'failing to understand or care' about veterans Veterans have previously described Labour's plans to repeal the act as 'vandalism' and a 'slap in the face to brave soldiers'. Paul Young, from the Northern Ireland Veterans Movement, accused Labour of 'failing to understand or care' about veterans. The Act has prevented some legal cases involving British troops going ahead. But a pledge to repeal it was included in Labour's General Election manifesto. The party claimed the Act 'denies justice to the families and victims of the Troubles'. New text messages reveal local law enforcement officers working former President Donald Trump's Butler, Pennsylvania, rally were severely understaffed ahead of the attempted assassination. During the tragic rally, Trump was shot in the ear and a former volunteer firefighter lost his life after 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from the roof of a nearby building just outside the security perimeter. Bombshell new text messages between the Beaver County emergency services team from the days leading up to the rally show that there was a staffing shortage. On July 8, five days before the rally, an unnamed team leader officer wrote in a text chat that they had been 'requested by Butler to assist' with Trump's rally and needed six people to step up for the 12-hour detail. Two offered to do so for the whole time, and two more offered to split the Saturday shift. The law enforcement leader wrote in the thread that he only had a few people available to work the event because 'everyone else is either working, on vacation or hurt.' The never-seen-before messages also lay out a timeline of nearly 90 minutes from between the identification of Crooks and his deadly fire. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 New messages, bodycam footage and law enforcement debrief were obtained by Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, who is conducting oversight of the event. The messages showed that law enforcement were aware of Crooks, whom they spotted more than an hour and a half before Trump took the stage. At 4:26 p.m., a Beaver County sniper finished his shift and departed the AGR building, where Crooks was able to access and take his shots from. As the sniper left the building, he texted a chain about a suspicious person he'd spotted - which turned out to be Crooks. 'Someone followed our lead and snuck in and parked by our cars just so you know,' read one message. 'I'm just letting you know because you see me go out with my rifle and put it in my car so he knows you guys are up there.' The officer noted that he was sitting at a picnic table 'about 50 yards from the exit.' 'That bike was not there when I pulled out. Maybe have them check that car,' they went on. Later on, officers exchanged photos of Crooks, who had then been marked a 'suspicious person,' at 5:38 p.m., over 30 minutes before Trump was shot. 'Kid learning (sic) around building we are in. I did see him with a range finder looking towards stage. FYI. If you wanna notify SS snipers to look out. Another officer asked what direction Crooks was headed, to which an unnamed officer replied, 'if I had to guess toward the back. Away from the event.' It comes after a whistleblower last week revealed Secret Service stood in the way of using drone technology to survey the scene of the Butler rally where an assassin tried to shoot former President Donald Trump. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., revealed that one whistleblower had told his office the night before the rally Secret Service 'repeatedly denied offers from a local law enforcement partner to utilize drone technology to secure the rally.' The whistleblower alleged that after the shooting Secret Service 'changed course and asked the local partner to deploy the drone technology to surveil the site in the aftermath.' The drones that were offered 'had the ability not only to identify active shooters but to neutralize them,' according to Hawley. From Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas Hawley demanded all records and communications related to the drone offer. The new claim adds another layer to the probe of the Secret Service's biggest security failure since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. After a blistering six hours of testimony on Monday Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle handed over her resignation on Tuesday. She'd spent much of the day evading and giving conflicting answers to questions such as why the roof where gunman Thomas Crooks committed his attack wasn't included within the security perimeter despite being within rifle range of the stage and why Trump was allowed to take the stage despite Crooks being identified as a suspicious person one hour before he fired any shots. Snippers stand on a roof at Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign rally Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally When asked to explain why there wasn't an agent on the roof, the director explained it's because the agency generally 'prefers sterile rooftops.' FBI Director Christopher Wray told lawmakers on Wednesday the 20-year-old gunman flew a drone 200 yards from the stage just two hours before he opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, and had three explosives in his car. Crooks shot Trump in the ear just 400 feet away from the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13 from the roof of a nearby building just outside the security perimeter of the event. Wray said Crooks and his family owned a combined 14 guns and Crooks had visited a shooting range one day before the rally. Crooks used an AR-style weapon that had been purchased legally by his father and sold to him in October 2023. Wray said eight bullet cartridges had been recovered from the roof where Crooks fired off his shots toward the former president. After a blistering six hours of testimony on Monday Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle handed over her resignation on Tuesday And he wouldn't rule out that Crooks did not have any accomplices to the crime, saying it's still being looked at by law enforcement. As Wray faced questions about why the president was allowed on stage despite the 'threat' being identified 20 minutes before the shots were fired, Wray said, 'we don't know the answer to that.' He said that no one in law enforcement saw Crooks with lying down in a shooting position with a gun in hand until 'moments before' he fired, but had seen him on the roof 'minutes before.' The FBI and Secret Service revealed to lawmakers last week they spotted Crooks as a person of interest a full 62 minutes before he fired a shot. He'd been seen with a range finder, which Cheatle said was 'not a prohibited item' at Trump rallies. This wasn't enough to identify him as a threat. Twenty minutes before Crooks fired a shot, he was spotted on the roof. A bullet grazed Trump's ear. One audience member, Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed and two others - David Dutch, 57 and James Copenhaver, 57 - were badly wounded but are in a stable condition. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro laid into Donald Trump in a show that he has what it takes to be Kamala Harris' running mate. The Democratic governor made the case against Trump by claiming the former president is 'weird,' 'dangerous' and proposing some 'scary s***' on his 2024 platform and claimed the former president is 'scared' of the vice president. But Shapiro also sought to prove he was ready to take on Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) during a rally for Harris' campaign outside of Philadelphia. Pennsylvania is massively important in this election cycle and is one of the few battleground states that could determine the outcome in November. Trump nabbed a victory in Pennsylvania in 2016 by just 0.7 percent before the state flipped blue in 2020 to go for Biden over the incumbent by a 1.2 percent gap. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro made his first big campaign remarks for Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday after it was revealed he made the short list for her running mate The Keystone State is one of the three toss-ups for 2024, according to Cook Political Report. The other two are rust belt states of Michigan and Wisconsin. A Bloomberg report Monday reveals that Shapiro as well as Arizona Gov. Mark Kelly and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz are the top three contenders Harris is considering adding to her ticket. Joined by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer during a stop in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania on Monday afternoon, Shapiro launched expletive-ridden attacks against Trump and Vance, whom he would debate if selected to join Harris' ticket. 'I have a message to Donald Trump stop s*** talking America,' Shapiro said to an auditorium of about 1,000 Democrat voters. 'This is the greatest country on the face of the earth, let's start acting like it.' 'You ever see this guy? When he's on the stage, he's like kind of meanders over, he can't really walk well. And he goes over to the flag and he, like, hugs the flag,' the Pennsylvania Governor said in reference to a bit the former president sometimes repeats during appearances. 'I love the flag, but it's a weird thing he does,' Shapiro added. 'But while he's hugging the flag, you know what he's doing? He's ripping away our freedom. That's what he's all about.' He also claimed Trump is scared to debate Harris after the ex-president said he wouldn't commit to anything until she was officially the party's nominee, which happens next month at the Democratic National Convention. Shapiro tried out some lines against Donald Trump, including claiming he 'can't really walk well' and will sometimes 'meander' over to hug the American flag on stage 'I am absolutely more excited to vote,' Amanda Baker, 40, told DailyMail.com. 'Like when Biden was running, I knew I had to vote because you have to do your civic duty to save the country,' she continued. 'But now I'm like excited to vote and tell people who I'm voting for' The governor said that Harris is 'not only ready, she's damn ready.' 'You know who else knows she's ready? Donald Trump knows she's ready,' Shapiro added. 'And you know how I know this?' he went on. 'Because he's afraid to debate her now. And it's not just because she's a skilled debater He's afraid to debate her because he can't defend his record.' Whitmer claims that Harris will choose her running mate in the next six or seven days. In her remarks at the Wissahickon High School gymnasium on Monday, the Michigan governor seemed to join-in on Shapiro's audition for the VP role. 'Another governor who believes in our three-part strategy: Get s*** done,' Whitmer said of her Pennsylvania counterpart. The crowd then began chanting the phrase. Harris entering the race has injected enthusiasm in eastern Pennsylvania voters and many told DailyMail.com that they were getting 'sad' continuing to support Biden before he exited the race last weekend. Leah, 48, (on left) works at a hospital in Lehigh Valley and told DailyMail.com: 'I feel a spring in my step. Also it's more fun to talk about, you know, the election, whilst before it was almost like something you wanted to hide because it was just like so sad and depressing with Joe Biden' A door-knocker in Conshohocken said he got tired of arguing with people about Biden's age. 'I've been kind of dragging my feet because I didn't want to argue about whether he [Biden] was too old or not too old. Now I've got a story to tell,' said Bill Gwynn, 70 'I am absolutely more excited to vote,' mother of one and store manager Amanda Baker, 40, said. 'Like when Biden was running, I knew I had to vote because you have to do your civic duty to save the country,' she continued. 'But now I'm like excited to vote and tell people who I'm voting for.' Leah, 48, works at a hospital in Lehigh Valley and told DailyMail.com: 'I feel a spring in my step.' 'Also it's more fun to talk about, you know, the election, whilst before it was almost like something you wanted to hide because it was just like so sad and depressing with Joe Biden.' A door-knocker in Conshohocken said he got tired of arguing with people about Biden's age. 'I've been kind of dragging my feet because I didn't want to argue about whether he [Biden] was too old or not too old,' said Bill Gwynn, 70. 'Now I've got a story to tell.' Migrant Channel crossings have hit a record high as those about to embark on the dangerous journey shouted: 'This is for Rishi Sunak.' French police simply stood and watched a group setting off from the country's northern coast yesterday as numbers continue to rise. Some 255 migrants made the journey across the Channel on Sunday taking the total for the year so far to 16,457 according to the Home Office. The previous record for arrivals by the end of July was 16,420 in 2022. Last year 14,732 came in the same period. The rising numbers make the challenge to Sir Keir Starmer's new Labour Government clear. So far his most significant move on immigration has been to scrap the Conservative threat to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda. Yesterday a so-called 'taxi boat' was seen motoring out of the harbour at Gravelines, near Dunkirk. One of the occupants of the half-full dinghy shouted to onlookers: 'This is for Rishi Sunak' perhaps in reference to the former prime minister's now junked policy. Migrants sail down a riverway leading to the English Channel as one shouts 'this is for Rishi Sunak' A group of people thought to be migrants wade through the sea to clamber aboard a small boat off the beach in Gravelines, France on Monday A group of people thought to be migrants wade through the sea to clamber aboard a small boat off the beach in Gravelines, France on Monday Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak speaking during a debate in the House of Commons on July 22 When the dinghy reached the sea, it simply turned right and headed back towards the neighbouring beach. A large group of migrants including women, children, and even an infant in a chest-mounted baby carrier emerged from the dunes and walked towards the sea. They then waded in, and waited for the 'taxi boat' to reach them. When it did, as many as possible clambered aboard. As witnessed before by the Daily Mail, police on the beach watched without lifting a finger. French officers, funded with 100million a year of UK taxpayers' money to 'stop the boats', are instructed not to interfere with dinghies already afloat or to hold back migrants already in the water for fear of being culpable for drownings. Yesterday police instead focused on stopping children and family groups from reaching the water. Volunteers from refugee charity Utopia 56 were also at the scene yesterday, checking boats at sea were not in trouble, offering fresh clothes to those who failed to board and monitoring police tactics. Volunteer Pablo Eymard-Picollec said of the families who turned back: 'I think a few police officers talked to them and told them to stay on the beach. A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel on July 19 (file picture) Some 255 migrants made the journey across the Channel on Sunday taking the total for the year so far to 16,457 according to the Home Office (file picture of Migrants arriving on July 29) 'The boat was really, really crowded, so I think they assumed it was too risky for them to go.' Early on Sunday one migrant died and another 34 were rescued by French coastguards after a 'heavily loaded' boat got into difficulty. In the Commons, Reform UK MP Lee Anderson asked: 'Does the Home Secretary agree with me it's time now to stop paying the French any more money until they stop being complicit in this evil trade?' Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the crossings were 'extremely dangerous' as she mentioned the latest death, adding: 'Criminal gangs are deliberately cramming boats to maximise their profits, and have been getting away with it for far too long. 'That is why we need a new Border Security Command in place, to work not simply with the French police but also with forces and organisations right across Europe, and beyond, to pursue the gangs and to prevent the boats reaching the French coast in the first place.' The BBC was blindsided by the criminal charges against former presenter Huw Edwards, with bosses only told of the allegations a few hours before they were made public, an insider has claimed. Edwards is due in court tomorrow having been accused of child pornography offences after 37 indecent images were allegedly shared on a WhatsApp chat. Scotland Yard confirmed the 62-year-old broadcaster was facing three charges of making indecent images of children between December 2020 and April 2022. He was arrested on November 8 last year and charged just over a month ago on June 26 following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service. A BBC insider reportedly said the corporation only found out Edwards was facing criminal charges hours before it was made public, according to The Times. Members of staff were rocked by the news, which they said senior management must have been unaware of. A senior source told The Times: 'The BBC was informed by the Met Police when a call came through [on Monday].' Former BBC host Huw Edwards has been charged with making indecent images of children Huw Edwards and his wife Vicky, pictured in South London in 2018. They have five children Edwards - who helmed royal and political events at the BBC before resigning in April - has been bailed and will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court this Wednesday. According to the charge sheet, Edwards is accused of having six category A images, 12 category B pictures and 19 category C photographs on WhatsApp. The offences are contrary to sections 1(1)(a) and 6 of the Protection of Children Act 1978, and if convicted he could face a maximum of up to 10 years in prison. Category A involves images involving penetrative sexual activity, sexual activity with an animal or sadism; Category B covers images which show non-penetrative sexual activity; while Category C is for indecent images not within categories B or C. A Metropolitan Police spokesman told MailOnline yesterday: 'Huw Edwards, 62, of Southwark, London has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children following a Met Police investigation. 'The offences, which are alleged to have taken place between December 2020 and April 2022, relate to images shared on a WhatsApp chat. Huw Edwards is seen walking through London's Marylebone on June 17 last year with his ID tag 'Edwards was arrested on November 8, 2023. He was charged on Wednesday, 26 June following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service. He has been bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, July 31.' The resignation from the BBC by married father-of-five Edwards in April followed allegations that he paid someone for sexually explicit pictures. The Metropolitan Police and South Wales Police both said in July last year that no criminal offence had been committed by Edwards. Edwards was absent from screens from when the story first broke in July 2023 until his exit in April 2024. Huw Edwards helmed major royal and political events at the BBC before resigning in April He remained on the payroll while suspended, which is normal BBC policy, and was suffering from serious mental health issues and received in-patient hospital care. The BBC confirmed at the time of his departure that he had not received a pay-off and was leaving 'on the basis of medical advice from his doctors'. He had long been a fixture in the coverage of major political and royal events, announcing Queen Elizabeth II's death on the BBC and presenting coverage of her funeral. He also anchored the BBC's broadcast of the King's coronation last year. Last week the BBC confirmed Edwards was paid more than 475,000 in 2023/24 before he resigned and left. Huw Edwards will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (file picture) The veteran newsreader was paid between 475,000 and 479,999 for the year 2023/24 for 160 presenting days, BBC One news specials, election specials and other television programming, according to the BBC's annual report. This marked an increase from 2022/23, when he was paid between 435,000 and 439,999 for 180 days presenting on BBC One, as well as news specials. Throughout the years, Edwards presented the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and Platinum Jubilee in 2022, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (now the Prince and Princess of Wales) in 2011, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018, and the funeral of Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 2021. The BBC News At Ten presenter was also the broadcaster's voice at Trooping the Colour and the Festival of Remembrance, and took over election coverage from the long-serving David Dimbleby in 2019. The work safety watchdog has deemed rollercoaster victim Shylah Rodden was most likely responsible for her own fate. Ms Rodden, 26, suffered critical injuries after being struck by the Rebel Coaster at the Melbourne Royal Show in 2022 after she walked onto the tracks to retrieve her phone. Now, Daily Mail Australia can reveal WorkSafe Victoria has abandoned plans to charge the Show or the company that operated the rollercoaster that struck her. 'After careful consideration of the evidence, WorkSafe has determined not to take further action against any duty holder on this matter at this time,' a Worksafe spokesperson said on Monday evening. The revelations will come as a major blow to Ms Rodden's long suffering family, who has been forced to care for her full-time since her release from hospital. Any adverse finding against the operators and show organisers could have paved the way for Ms Rodden to launch civil action against them. It is understood the decision rested in the hands of lawyers tasked with assessing whether any charges could be successfully prosecuted at court. Decisions on whether to commence a prosecution are made and authorised by WorkSafes Executive Director of Health and Safety, under delegated powers, and informed by legal advice. Shylah Rodden was critically injured in the tragic accident in September 2022 Horrifying footage shows Shylah Rodden (pictured in black) moments before being hit by the Rebel Coaster at the Melbourne Royal show Sources told Daily Mail Australia that Worksafe officers carried out an exhaustive investigation into the shocking incident involving the Rebel Coaster ride in September 2022. Much of that investigation centered around establishing whether any duties under the Occupational Health and Safety Act had been breached. 'Enforcement decisions must take into account WorkSafe's General Prosecution Guidelines, which require consideration of the available evidence, the particular elements that must be proved in order for a prosecution to succeed, and the evidentiary burden that applies in criminal proceedings,' a source close to the investigation said. It is understood WorkSafes investigation found insufficient evidence to prove beyond reasonable doubt any breaches under the OHS Act. Ms Rodden faces years of rehabilitation after suffering a massive brain injury when she was flung nine metres into the air by the fast-moving ride. She was hit while trying to retrieve a mobile phone she dropped on the tracks. Under Victorian law, WorkSafe has two years to press charges against companies and individuals it believes have broken the state's rigid workplace laws. Shylah Rodden (pictured) suffered 'life-changing' injuries after being hit by the rollercoaster While the results of that toxicology report from the time of the accident have never been made public, police sources suggested Ms Rodden may have been under the influence of some form of medication. Another well-placed source said that whatever prompted Ms Rodden to jump onto the tracks was not a concern of the safety watchdog, which was focused only on whether precautions were in place and being followed. It is understood WorkSafe's investigation focused on what the ride's operators were doing when she made her way onto the tracks. 'Her toxicity levels are not relevant to the investigation into whether the duty holder was doing everything reasonably practicable to provide a safe and healthy workplace,' the source said. A WorkSafe inspection concluded that the Rebel Coaster was 'safe' to re-open just days after the accident. A Show spokeswoman, who asked not to be named, defended its safety procedures at the time of the incident. 'The safety and well-being of our visitors to the show continues to be our number one priority,' she said in a statement at the time. 'Strict safety protocols are upheld in line with Victorian WorkSafe regulations. All rides on site have undergone stringent compliance inspections and have passed all the required safety documentation.' Shylah Rodden faces a long battle to recovery after being hit by a rollercoaster in September 2022 A Melbourne Royal Show spokeswoman claimed 'the safety and well-being of our visitors to the show continues to be our number one priority' (pictured, the Royal Melbourne Show) Ms Rodden's release from hospital in January last year to the family home at Craigieburn was heralded as a major step in her long road to recovery. However, a spokesperson from her legal team said in January that year Ms Rodden would never fully recover. 'Whilst this indicates that her condition has stabilised, the injuries she has sustained remain life-changing,' it was stated at the time. Her father Alan Rodden told Daily Mail Australia soon after the incident that his daughter had suffered life-changing injuries. 'I can't talk to my daughter. She's going to be in a coma for quite a while,' he said. 'The injuries are horrific. Horrific. She's brain damaged. It's pelvic, her arms, legs, back, neck - there's hardly a thing that's not broken. I just can't work out how the hell so much damage has been done. 'Even the doctors have said they haven't seen anything as bad as this for a long time.' On the day she was struck by the rollercoaster, Ms Rodden had been working at a friend's stall at the Melbourne Royal Show. The pair had been on a break when they decided to go on a few rides to kill time. It is understood she dropped her phone while on the rollercoaster and police believe she walked onto the tracks of the high-speed ride to retrieve the device. Shocking footage of the incident was shared on TikTok just days after it happened. A Venezuelan man who entered the US illegally shot at three Texas police officers, injuring one cop who was dragged to safety during the shootout by her fellow officers. Jorge Chacon-Gutierrez, 26, who illegally crossed into Eagle Pass, Texas in November 2023 but was then released by federal authorities, has been identified as the shooter, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed to DailyMail.com. Chacon-Gutierrez was found dead after he opened fire on the three officers who were responding to a domestic violence call at an apartment, the local police chief confirmed. The female officer who was wounded during the spray of gunfire underwent surgery Sunday morning, and is expected to survive. Jorge Chacon-Gutierrez, 25, has been identified by San Antonio TV station WOAI as illegal immigrant shooter who opened fire on three police officers Sunday morning 'These are the consequences of failed catch & release policies,' tweeted Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales. 'I am thankful the injured SAPD officer is stable & I pray she makes a full recovery soon.' Officers responded to the apartment around 3 a.m. Sunday after shooter's girlfriend had been assaulted by him, the police department said. 'When officers went in to the apartment, (the shooter) was lying in bed with a rifle by his side, and he started shooting at the officer,' Police Chief William McManus told reporters. 'The officers returned fire. They exited the apartment.' SWAT officers later made entry into the apartment and 'saw the suspect was deceased,' however McManus couldn't say whether it was a self-inflicted wound or whether the shooter had been hit by police rounds. The wounded officer has not be identified by the department, however, the chief added that she has been on the force for less than three years. An armed police officer stands guard after three cops were shot while responding to a domestic violence call in San Antonio Sunday morning Police Chief William McManus confirmed the female officer shot had been hit several times and underwent surgery Sunday ICE, the federal agency responsible for tracking migrants in the US, told DailyMail.com he had entered the US illegally without inspection, admission, and or parole by an immigration officer. 'On that same day, he was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol who later placed him in removal proceedings after issuing him a Notice to Appear which obligated him to present himself before an immigration judge at a later date,' the feds explained. Chacon was released into the US after he was given a notice to appear before a federal judge in April 2026, according to Fox News. The Medical Examiners Office listed Chacon's death as a homicide. Donald Trump's VP pick JD Vance spent last week sweltering in the spotlight after his past quotes calling Democratic leaders 'a bunch of childless cat ladies' went viral. The comments, clipped from a 2021 interview with Tucker Carlson, called out VP-turned-presidential hopeful Kamala Harris as one of many childless leaders, Vance said, 'who are miserable' and 'want to make the rest of the country miserable too.' His provocative theory drew retorts from Friends star Jennifer Aniston, pop star Kesha and VP Harris' own step-daughter. But Vance's statement speaks to real demographic concerns: US birthrates are at their lowest ever, raising fear of economic misery, sky-high taxes and labor shortages ahead. DailyMail.com drilled-down into the causes of America's decade's long population slump which began with the housing crisis of the 2008-09 financial crash to investigate what factors are really behind this generation-defining shift. Trump's VP pick JD Vance (left with family) faced scrutiny after his past quotes calling Democratic leaders 'a bunch of childless cat ladies' went viral - but the quote speaks to real concerns: US birthrates are at their lowest in a century, raising fear of economic misery ahead American women are giving birth at record-low rates. The total fertility rate - the average number of children that are born to a woman over her lifetime - fell to 1.62 births per woman in 2023, the lowest rate since the government began tracking it in the 1930s. For a population to stay the same size, countries must achieve a 'replacement' level fertility rate of 2.1. If unaddressed over time, it can lead to an increasing aging population, with a significant proportion needing care and unable to work. A study in the Lancet earlier this year warned this could have 'immense' consequences, with public services and economic growth at risk. The researchers said America faces an 'underpopulation' crisis by 2050, a situation in which there are too few people to realize the economic potential of an area or support its population's standard of living. The only way to stabilize the population is for women to have more babies or for more immigrants to come into the country. Whatever the cause and whatever the solution, experts agree this demographic shift toward less births and an aging population is a crisis in the making. 'The aging of the population could further limit revenue growth and add to fiscal uncertainty,' a recent Pew study found. 'If low fertility persists,' they warned, 'states will need to look more for other ways to grow their tax bases or they could face challenges over the long term.' Your browser does not support iframes. Vance's comments came in the context of his full-throated critique of the psychology of Democratic party and its governing style in Washington. 'We're effectively run in this country, via the Democrats, via our corporate oligarchs, by a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they've made,' as he explained it to then-Fox News host Tucker Carlson. 'It's just a basic fact. You look at Kamala Harris, Pete Buttegieg, AOC, the entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children,' Donald Trump's now running mate continued. 'How does it make any sense,' he asked, 'we've turned our country over to people who don't really have a direct stake in it?' Regardless of which political party might be to blame, however, the issue of the lowering birthrate has began to concern state and federal policymakers. California's 2022-2023 state budget under Governor Gavin Newsom, for example, made explicit mention of the threat to state budgets as older generations retire with less and less younger people to replace them in the workforce and as taxpayers. 'With rising cost of living and an already tight housing market,' the budget report stated, 'it could become increasingly difficult for the remaining working-age Californians to support the aging population.' Decades of federal government data, suggests that little has changed across generations when it comes to the desire to start a family. 'The vast majority of US young adults plan to have kids: about 88 percent of teenage girls and 89 percent of teenage boys,' researchers found State lawmakers in Montana, the governor's office in Colorado and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City have all issued similarly dire reports in recent years. 'Trends in fertility will also influence property taxes, a major source of revenue for many school districts and local governments,' according to a report on the looming crisis put together by the Pew Charitable Trusts. Vance points to cultural or political explanations for this decline, blasting millennials as the 'generation that refuses to grow up'. But broad evidence exists for other explanations for America's shrinking fertility rates. Decades of federal government data suggests that little has changed across generations when it comes to the desire to start a family. One 2023 study, conducted by Ohio State and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, found young Americans still aspire to have on two children average. The study pooled generations-worth of responses obtained by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for their National Survey of Family Growth. 'Slightly more young people plan to have no children now than 30 years ago,' the study's authors, sociologists Karen Benjamin Guzzo and Sarah Hayford, wrote for The Conversation. 'But still, the vast majority of US young adults plan to have kids: about 88 percent of teenage girls and 89 percent of teenage boys.' Guzzo and Hayford found that financial and employment woes appeared to play the strongest role in why younger Americans have delayed starting families, or given up once their prime child-rearing years have begun to slip away. And their work echoes other findings from researchers including a study from Australia's University of Adelaide which found a link between the rise in temporary employment among white collar workers and declining birth rates. 'Our results showed that 61 percent of women who had received a university education had at least one 'casual' job after achieving their first qualification,' study coauthor Dr Lynne Giles said. US cities with the lowest birth rate Seattle, Washington Milwaukee, Wisconsin Boston, Massachusetts Portland, Oregon Austin, Texas San Diego, California Washington, DC Denver, Colorado Los Angeles, California Chicago, Illinois Advertisement '30 percent of these jobs were managerial or professional,' Dr Giles noted. 'This highlights the fact that temporary employment is no longer the sole domain of low-skilled, poorly paid people.' 'Our results also show that having children at an older age and childlessness are not just a matter of individual women's choices,' the public health researcher concluded. 'They reflect the broader structural arrangements in society.' While the scientific literature has also pointed to alternative explanations, even those putting them forward have tended to de-emphasize their role alongside these weighty economic pressures. One study that tracked a subset of roughly 3,000 human genes that appear to be linked with a greater chance of childlessness, for example, found that their impact came to less than 1 percent as compared to those economic factors. The study's findings suggest that even alarming new data on declining sperm counts among men and other biological factors might not be as significant as the record-setting debts and soaring home prices faced by Americans trying to plan for parenthood. America's combined household debt shot up by $212 billion to a record $17.5 trillion in the final three months of 2023, according to Federal Reserve data this year, the highest since the 2009 financial crisis. And median home prices have doubled in just the past five years, based on data collected by the real estate marketplace Point2. State-level governments across America have had a vested interest in getting to the bottom of the problem, faced with threats to their tax revenue and local economies. And their budget studies point to three other factors that have led the economic threat of underpopulation: a decline in unplanned teenage pregnancies, an overall decline in international immigration and a decline in US Hispanic pregnancies. Of all these, the drop in teen pregnancies as a result of improved sex education and access to contraception, appears to be a public policy success story. Government estimates from HHS found that the pregnancy rate for female adolescents aged 15 to 19 years was down to 13.5 per 1,000 females for 2022, down from 29.4 per 1000 individuals in 2019. 'This decline is good news,' according to sociologists Guzzo and Hayford. 'There are fewer unintended births than there were 30 years ago.' The other two findings by state budget planners appears to show unintended consequences of border restrictions. One report from Colorado's State Demography Office found that their state's total population of recent immigrants declined by nearly 24 percent, a factor that they worried would 'slow the growth of the labor force relative to the total population.' A similar study documented a drop in fertility rates among the state of Arizona's Hispanic women which dropped nearly 50 percent from level before the Great Recession, compared to a more 30 percent drop in fertility across the state. There's no better way to spend a summer evening than getting out and watching the wonders of the solar system. Tonight, British stargazers will be in for a treat as the Delta Aquariid meteor shower reaches its dazzling peak. The Delta Aquariids will be at their best shortly after midnight tonight, before the crescent moon rises too far into the sky. Up to 25 meteors will zoom through the sky an hour and they're best viewable without a telescope or binoculars, experts say. To make the view even better, the smaller Alpha Capricornid meteor shower will also reach its peak at the same time. The Delta Aquariids meteor shower will peak on Tuesday. Pictured: a meteor from the Delta Aquariids shower above the Canary Islands back in 2014 When to see tonight's meteor shower The Delta Aquariids are an annual meteor shower that runs over six weeks between mid-July and late August. Dr Greg Brown, astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, told MailOnline: 'Delta Aquariids and the Alpha Capricornids are two meteor showers that peak on the nights of the 29th and 30th of July respectively. 'The Delta Aquariids has a decent ideal rate of around 25 meteors per hour, while the Alpha Capricornids is a fairly weak shower of around 5 meteors per hour, though light pollution and other viewing conditions will likely reduce the actual observed rate.' Because the Delta Aquariids can sometimes be dim, finding a time when the sky is darkest will be key to getting a good view. The best time tonight will be around an hour after midnight when the sky has become sufficiently dark but before the moon rises too much. Dr Brown adds: 'As with most meteor showers, the best time to see them is in the early hours of the morning, just after midnight, though lower rates can be seen throughout the night.' The key to seeing the meteor shower tonight will be to find somewhere dark and away from light pollution. The best times will be just after midnight before the moon has risen too much. Pictured: Delta Aquariids over Sri Lanka on July 4, 2024 How to see the Delta Aquariids Make sure that you are in a dark sky area and have an unobstructed view towards the south. Lie down on a blanket or sit in a lawn chair to ensure that you have a wide view of the sky. Your naked eye is the best instrument to use to see meteors dont use binoculars or a telescope as these have narrow fields of view. Allow your eyes to adapt to the dark and dont look at any lights, or at your phone, to maintain your dark adaptation. Source: RMG Advertisement Where is the best place to watch from? The Delta Aquariids will be visible from anywhere in the UK tonight but the best locations will have clear skies and low levels of light pollution. Luckily for most places in the UK, the Met Office currently forecasts dry, clear, and warm conditions. Some small areas of Scotland north of Glasgow are predicted to receive some rain but stargazers elsewhere should avoid most of the wet weather. South east and south west England are set to receive the clearest skies tonight with almost no cloud forecast around the shower's peak. Areas of the midlands and as far north as Manchester will experience more cloud cover but there will still be a few windows of clear sky as the night goes on. A Met Office spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are expecting clear skies over England and Wales tonight and tomorrow night. 'However there will be varying amounts of cloud over Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of north east England at times.' No matter where in the country you are, the best location will be wherever you have the least light pollution. For those in urban areas that might mean finding a park or taking a trip into the countryside to get away from the city's lights. There is good news for stargazers in the South of England as there are clear, cloudless (left) skies forecast tonight and very little rain over most of the country How to see the Delta Aquariids The Delta Aquariids get their name from the Aquarius constellation from which they appear to emerge. Since the meteors appear from the same place, known as the 'radiant', they are quite easy to find even for an inexperienced stargazer. After midnight, look for the square of the constellation Pegasus which appears in the southeastern sky and then look downwards towards the horizon. You should spot what looks like an exceptionally bright star which is actually Saturn in the constellation Aquarius. Now you have found the radius of the meteor shower it is actually best to look around 45 degrees to either side. Your peripheral vision is somewhat more sensitive to light this will give you a better chance of seeing any meteors. To find the Delta Aquariid shower look southeast to find the Square of Pegasus and then look downwards till you see the bright star Fomalhaut Meteor showers in 2024 Quadrantids (January 3-4) (January 3-4) Lyrids (April 22-23) (April 22-23) Eta Aquariids (May 6) (May 6) Alpha Capricornids (July 30) (July 30) Delta Aquariids (July 30) (July 30) Perseids (August 12-13) (August 12-13) Draconids (October 8-9) (October 8-9) Orionids (October 21-22) (October 21-22) Taurids (November 12-13) (November 12-13) Leonids (November 18) (November 18) Geminids (December 14-15) (December 14-15) Ursids (December 23) (Note: All dates refer to peaks, as viewed from the Northern Hemisphere) Source: Royal Museums Greenwich Advertisement Between five and 10 per cent of the meteors in the Delta Aquariid shower leave glowing streaks of ionised gas in their wake called 'persistent trains'. These should make the meteors even easier to spot as they will linger for one or two seconds before fading. Thankfully you won't need any special equipment to make the most of this stunning display. Dr Brown says: 'Theres no need for a telescope or binoculars here in fact its a bad idea to use them! 'Instead, try lying down if you can (using a deckchair is ideal here!) and fill your view with as much of the sky as possible' It is also key to let your eyes adjust to the darkness; that means no shining torches and no looking at your phone for at least 15 minutes before you expect to see anything. Dr Brown adds: 'Then simply be patient, allowing your eyes to adjust to the dark and wait for the blink-and-youll-miss-it spark of a tiny grain of dust burning as they race at speeds in excess of 20 kilometres per second into the upper atmosphere.' What about the Alpha Capricornids? The Delta Aquariids will not be the only meteor shower reaching its peak tonight as the sky will also be lit up by a display known as the Alpha Capricornids. Just like the Aquariids, this shower gets its name from a constellation as they appear to emerge from the Capricorn region. You should be able to find Capricorn just below and to the right of the Aquarius constellation. Although not as frequent as the Delta Aquariids, only producing four to five meteors every hour, the Alpha Capricornids can be just as spectacular. This meteor shower is known for its extremely bright fireball meteors which travel very slowly through the sky. Spotting just one of these brilliant flares is sure to be a highlight of any star-watching trip. About 10 per cent of meteors in the Delta Aquariids leave persistent glowing trails which make them much easier to spot. Pictured: Delta Aquariids over Sydney, 2022 The Alpha Capricornids emerge from the Capricorn constellation which should be visible just below and to the right of the Aquarius constellation What are meteor showers? The bright flash of a meteor we see as a shooting star is caused by small pieces of interplanetary debris burning up in the atmosphere. As pieces of dust, rock, and ice collide with the atmosphere at extremely high speeds they are superheated and vaporise in a flash of light before they hit the ground. Meteor showers are simply moments in the Earth's orbit when we pass through particularly dirty regions of space and sweep up lots of bits of debris. Although the origins are still debated, it is believed that the Delta Aquariid meteor shower is caused by the debris left behind by the comet 96P/Machholz. This four-mile-wide ball of rock and ice orbits the sun once every five years, getting extremely close to the sun as it does so. The Delta Aquariids are believed to originate from the debris left behind by the comet 96P Machholz (pictured) as it breaks up during its orbit of the sun During those portions of its journey, the intense heat causes parts of the comet to break away in a trail of debris which we experience as a meteor shower. Scientists believe that the Alpha Capricornid meteor shower is also caused by the debris left behind by a small comet called 169P/NEAT. In 2010, researchers suggested that 169P/NEAT is actually just a small piece of a larger object which broke up about 4,500 to 5,000 years ago. Since Earth only catches the edge of the debris field, the Alpha Capricornid shower only produces a few meteors. However, within the next 200 to 300 years the Earth will shift to pass through the very centre of the field leading to even more spectacular displays. If you're fed up with Facebook but can't get enough of TikTok, you're not alone. New research has revealed the least and most loved social media apps around the world. Facebook came in as the most hated social media app, ranking as the lowest-rated site in 39 countries. Not far behind was microblogging platform Reddit, ranked as the worst-rated app in 30 countries including the UK. However, it was TikTok that came out on top as the UK and the world's most beloved app ranked top in 30 countries overall. Research has revealed the most hated social media apps around the world, with Facebook, Reddit, and X taking the top three spots Mailsuite compared the Google Play Store reviews of 1.500 popular apps to find which social media sites had the lowest ranking in each country Top 5 most hated social media apps Facebook : Lowest ranked in 39 countries Reddit : Lowest ranked in 30 countries X (Twitter) : Lowest ranked in 15 countries Instagram : Lowest ranked in 4 countries Threads : Lowest ranked in 4 countries Advertisement The most hated social media apps For the research, email tracking service Mailsuite compared the Google Play Store reviews for 1,500 apps. With Facebook the least loved overall, the list may come as a disappointment to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, which are all owned by the social media giant, made it into the top five most-hated sites. Facebook appeared to be especially reviled in South America where only four countries listed anything other than Facebook as their least favourite. Zuckerberg's first social media site was also disliked across large parts of Africa and Asia, hitting the bottom of the tables in India, Pakistan, Nigeria and Morocco. Meta only fared slightly better with their other social media sites, Instagram and Threads, which were both least popular in four countries. Threads, designed as an alternative to Twitter, was launched to huge fanfare in the summer of 2023. Despite an early spike in downloads, enthusiasm for the so-called 'Twitter killer' soon waned. Facebook was the lowest ranked social media app in 39 countries and was particularly unpopular in South America However, Threads is now once again closing the gap with its rival, seeing triple the daily downloads of X (Twitter) on iOS and double on the Google Play Store. X was ranked as the least popular in 10 countries around the world, and was third overall on the most-hated list. Since Elon Musk's takeover of the app in October 2022 the social media site has faced a stream of controversy. Notably, Musk has faced strong criticism for his cutbacks to moderation and lax attitudes towards hate speech which scared many advertisers off the platform. Reddit was the UK's least favourite social media app and was also hated by much of Europe The UK, however, follows most of Europe in selecting Reddit as its most hated social media site. In all, 30 countries gave Reddit the lowest rating of any social media site including Germany, France, Spain, and Sweden. The social media site founded in 2005 has also recently undergone a series of large changes after going public on the stock market. The company has now reached deals to include more advertising and block search engines like Google from accessing its content unless they pay for the data. The most loved social media apps The research also revealed which social media apps were most loved by their users based on Google Play Store reviews in each country Top 5 most loved social media apps TikTok: Top rated in 30 countries Threads: Top rated in 15 countries Facebook: Top rated in 12 countries Instagram: Top rated in 9 countries Likee: Top rated in 7 countries Advertisement However, not all social media apps inspire such vitriol and many are beloved by their users. In particular, TikTok, the short form video sharing platform, appears to be the most well-loved ranking top in 30 countries around the world. Founded in 2016 by Chinese company ByteDance, the app has rapidly become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world and is especially preferred by younger generations. However, TikTok has faced increasing scrutiny for its supposed security vulnerabilities and links to its Chinese-owned parent companies. This has culminated in some senators mounting an effort to ban the app in the US. It is, therefore, perhaps not surprising that it was newcomer BeReal which claimed the top spot in the US rather than TikTok. The French social media site, launched in 2020, prompts users to take an unfiltered photo every day via the app's camera, which snaps a selfie and a photo using the rear camera simultaneously. TikTok was the world's most loved app, coming in top in 30 countries. However, TikTok was not the most popular app in the USA where legislators have attempted to ban the social media giant TikTok was the most popular app globally every year between 2018 and 2022 but was overtaken by Instagram in 2023. That year TikTok was downloaded 733 million times compared with 767 million times for Instagram. This sudden return to form was largely attributed to the introduction of Instagram Reels a feature mimicking TikTok's short video format. However, even that was not enough to pull Instagram up the tables; Mailsuite's research found that the Meta-owned photo-sharing app came top in only nine countries. Threads and Facebook also performed a bit better, coming out on top in 15 and 12 countries, respectively. Instagram might have overtaken TikTok for number of downloads in 2023 but was only the favourite app of nine countries around the world The TikTok clone 'Likee' (pictured) was the top app in seven countries by Google Play Store reviews but has faced heavy criticism for endangering children and hosting explicit content A surprising entrant into the top five most loved apps was the little-known TikTok clone Likee. This video-sharing app was the top-rated app in the Google Play Store of Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Latvia, and Moldova. However, the app has faced extreme scrutiny for its lax approach to child safety, privacy, and explicit content with one expert calling it a 'paedophile's paradise'. The app automatically displays the user's location with each post, and the search functionality allows users to filter the results by gender. Users are also unable to set their profiles to private or restrict who can send them messages. A review of the app's safety by VPNoverview found that the site heavily featured graphic content despite being listed as 12+ on the Google Play Store. It's interesting to note that several famous apps were in both the most-hated and most-loved lists namely, Facebook, Instagram and Threads. This suggests they are particularly polarizing for social media users, while the likes of TikTok (only in the most-loved list) are more universally adored. There's nothing more frustrating than being plagued by a dodgy broadband connection while you're trying to stream your favourite show. However, thanks to a team of British scientists, buffering could be a thing of the past as they develop a connection 1.6 million times faster than home broadband. Th researchers from Aston University and their international collaborators have developed a new way of using fibre optic cables to boost transmission speeds. This new method is capable of transferring a world-record-breaking 402 terabits per second - smashing the previous record of 301 terabits per second by 25 per cent. And this technique can be done on the same standard fibre optic cables that are already in use meaning no new cables would be needed. Researchers have discovered a new way to transfer data on fibre optic cables that can hit world-record-breaking speeds of 402 terabits per second (stock image) What are fibre optic cables? Fibre optic cables involve tiny tubes that are about as thick as a human hair and are reflective on the inside. They transfer information by sending flashes of light through the tubes. This bounces off the reflective walls and along the cable. These flashes of data are then received and interpreted at the other end. Advertisement Although this world-record is just an experiment, researchers say this technology could be made available as soon as it is 'mature'. However, Professor Wladek Forysiak of the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, told MailOnline that this would be more relevant to the 'national backbone networks' rather than the individual consumer. This means the new technology would be used to build faster national internet infrastructure even if those changes would be felt most by big businesses such as data centres. In a technical report published by Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), the researchers announced they had set a new 'world record' for data transfer speeds. For context, Netflix recommends that users have a minimum bandwidth of three megabits per second to stream high-definition content without interruption (1 million megabits is equal to one terabit). The speeds achieved by the researchers in this trial are more than 100 million times faster than the recommended bandwidth. According to a study by Deloitte, a household of five office workers is likely to need no more than 50 megabits per second of bandwidth. Even a household of four influencers in which three were uploading 4K video and downloading content at the same time would need just over 314 megabits per second. With the speeds achieved in this study, the data from millions of households like this could be transferred through one optical fibre without any delays. Compared to the recommended bandwidth needed to stream HD content on Netflix, this new method is more than 100 million times faster And what is most exciting about this new research is that these staggering speeds were achieved on standard fibre optic cables. That means that current fibre optic networks could potentially be upgraded to these incredible speeds without having to lay new wires. Dr Phillips, of the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies says: 'This finding could help increase capacity on a single fibre so the world would have a higher performing system.' Fibre optic cables, which are used in all high-speed broadband connections, work by bouncing beams of light along the inside of glass threads. Compared to copper wires which used to be common, fibre optic cables are faster, lose less data, and can carry more data at one time. The researchers achieve these speeds by transferring signals across six 'bands' of the infrared spectrum at the same time. Most current fibre optic cables only transfer on one or two at a time Slow broadband speeds are something that many Brits must contend with, and 2023 figures revealed the specific streets with the worst connections. The researchers say their new technique produces speeds 1.6 million times faster than a standard broadband connection One of the biggest advantages of fibre optic cables is that light can be beamed through them at different wavelengths. Signals sent through on different 'bands' in the infrared spectrum don't interfere with each other as they travel through the cable so they can be read separately once they arrive at their destination. This means that fibre optics can carry multiple signals at once, massively increasing the amount of data that can be carried at any one time, also called bandwidth. To beat the world record for data transmission, the team from Aston University transferred data across all six available bands. This breakthrough smashes the previous record of 301 terabytes per second by 25 per cent and leaves previous results far behind (demonstrated in graph) This technique was tested on standard fibre optic cables meaning that networks could be upgraded without the need to lay new cables underground (stock image) To do this, the researchers had to build custom amplifiers to boost the signal in the longest parts of the wavelength which are not normally used. The researchers from NICT had previously set the record for the fastest data transfer at 301 terabits per second with an attempt that used four of the six wavelengths. Despite the potential of this technology most fibre optic cables typically only transmit data along two of the most stable bands of the infrared spectrum. Currently, that provides more than enough bandwidth to transfer the data needed for most people's internet usage. However, as data use is predicted to increase in the future the researchers point out that these two bands may soon become congested. Dr Philips says: 'The newly developed technology is expected to make a significant contribution to expand the communication capacity of the optical communication infrastructure as future data services rapidly increase demand.' Americans know that 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, but what many have recently learned is that a woman's name appears on the documents. A recent TikTok video, viewed over one million times, has gone viral after sharing that 'Marry Katherine Goddard' sits at the bottom of the page. Goddard was not a signer but printed the first copy of the Declaration of Independence for the Continental Congress in 1777, marking herself as the first female government employee in the US. At the time, women were seen as second class citizens, they did not have voting rights and were barred from holding positions in publishing. Americans know that 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, but what many have recently learned is that a woman's name appears on the documents A recent TikTok video, viewed over one million times, has gone viral after sharing that 'Marry Katherine Goddard' sits at the bottom of the page But Goddard was working at her brother's newspaper in Baltimore that was tasked with printing the first copies of the Declaration of Independence and she put her name on each copy that she put through the printing press. While her name has been cemented in history since, many people are just now learning about her story and are calling her 'our Founding Mother.' The video has wracked up nearly 300,00 likes and over 1,000 comments, with users admitting they had no idea. Others shared how seeing Goddard's name made them 'very emotional, with some stating they cried upon viewing the short clip. Goddard, born in Connecticut in 1738 began printing for her brother's, William, paper the Maryland Journal and the Baltimore Advertiser, but she did so under 'M.K. Goddard' because women were prohibited from such professions. In December 1776, the Continental Congress relocated to Baltimore just blocks away from the paper. And one month later, Goddard printed the first version of the document to list the names of most of the signers. Goddard's imprint at the bottom of the document identifies not only the city where she worked but also her full name: 'Baltimore, in Maryland: Printed by Mary Katharine Goddard.' 'Goddard risked her life and her livelihood by including her own name on the Declaration of Independence,' reads a blog from the National Park Service. The risk was due to consequences that could come about her defying the roles of women, which may have included whipping or imprisonment. Goddard was not a signer but printed the first copy of the Declaration of Independence for the Continental Congress in 1777, marking herself as the first female government employee in the US. The first copy of the Declaration of Independence is also different from the one many Americans know as it was only signed by John Hancock, who was the president of the Continental Congress, and Charles Thomson, its secretary. Not only did Goddard expose herself to the world, she also unmakes the 55 men who dared to defy tyranny and declare independence from England. Goddard again broke barriers of tradition in the postal world by being one of the first postmasters, head of a post office, to use a letter carrier. While she was a trailblazer of her time, misfortune struck when William fired her from the paper. The reason is unknown, but reports suggested the two never spoke again. Then in 1789, a man with few qualifications took over Goddard's role as postmaster. Maryland's governor and over 230 Baltimore citizens signed a petition for her reinstatement and she went to the Senate to plead for the return of her position. But the Senate never responded to her letter. She then took her case to President George Washington with another letter. 'She has been discharged from her Office, without any imputation of the least fault,' the letter stated. Unlike the Senate, Washington responded but not as Goddard had hoped. 'I have uniformly avoided interfering with any appointments which do not require my official agency,' he replied. Goddard never worked with the post office or for a newspaper again but started her own printing and bookbinding business that thrived for 20 years. She died at age 78 on August 12, 1816. The TikTok video has brought her story back to life, with many Americans being brought to tears after learning about Goddard. A treasure trove of historic gold foil artifacts that were buried for nearly 3,000 years has been uncovered in Egypt. Archaeologists discovered 63 graves Tel-El-Dir - a burial complex in the city of Damietta - that were filled with figurines, pottery, coins and a mirror. The team believes the relics could reveal the secrets of ancient Egyptians dating back to the Bronze Age, specifically about the city's foreign trade efforts. A total of 38 coins found at the site dated back to the Ptolemaic period, (304 to 30BC), when one of Alexander the Great's general's descendants ruled Egypt. The ancient currency featured images of both ancient Greek and Egyptian gods. Archaeologists discovered the burial site of Tel-El-Dir in the city of Damietta in Egypt that held more than 60 tombs Gold Foil artifacts were discovered that led researchers to believe they could shed light on how the Egyptians lived during the Bronze Age and Ptolemaic Period The artifacts and tombs are believed to date back to Egypt's Late Period from 664 BC to 332 BC when Damietta served as the center of foreign trade with cities in the Mediterranean. The pottery was likely exchanged with other cities, but it was the bronze coins found within a pottery vessel that are indicative of the turmoil that struck the city of Damietta. The coins appeared to be engraved with the head of the Greek God Zeus and the Egyptian God Ammon. These gods are associated with oracles and prophecies, which date the coins to the late third century, Thomas Faucher, the director of the Center for Alexandrian Studies in Egypt who was not involved in this research, told Live Science. The artifacts are believed to date back to Egypt's Late Period from 664 BC to 332 BC when Damietta served as the center of foreign trade with cities in the Mediterranean These gods are associated with oracles and prophecies which dates the coins to the late third century. The researchers found gold foil statues with religious symbols and ancient Egyptian idols including the Eye of Horus that revealed the deceased were people of high social standing When the coins were released in 206 BC, the country was undergoing a large-scale revolt led by two native Egyptians, Pharaohs Horwennefer and Ankhwennefer, who set out to overthrow the Greek rule. The ancient Greeks held control of the nation, shuffling in a new language, religion and new way of life, which caused a rift between the two groups. After the revolt, there was a mass coin recall and they were given additional markings. However, the 38 bronze coins found by archaeologists had been stashed away by someone unwilling to meet the demands of the new rulers. Faucher told Live Science that the new discovery could provide more details about the events that took place and explain in greater detail why the ancient Egyptians hid these items. However, the researchers have not officially confirmed if the coins were buried during the revolt. The findings from the 26th dynasty 'confirm the completion of the historical sequence of the Tel El-Dir cowardice and the important commercial role of the Damietta site through different historical eras' The tombs were constructed with mud bricks over storage chambers that held funerary goods, but one 'huge' burial contained multiple remains who may have been of a higher social class. The tomb also featured a trove of gold foil artifacts, such as religious statues and ancient Egyptian idols, including the Eye of Horus - a falcon-headed God that was worn as an amulet that was believed to have protective powers They uncovered funeral pyres, which were wooden structures used to cremate the body and gold foil figurines that were notable because they appeared to depict 'ba-birds.' These were mythological creatures that had wings, a human head and human arms and were believed to watch over the deceased's spirit as it passed into the afterlife. The researchers did not disclose the presence or condition of any human remains that may have been recovered at the Damietta site but said the artifacts found at the tombs 'emphasize the historical significance of this discovery, which may be the beginning of the re-dating of an important period of time for the city of Damietta.' They also explained that the findings from the 26th dynasty 'confirm the completion of the historical sequence of the Tel El-Dir cowardice and the important commercial role of the Damietta site through different historical eras.' The photographer shared 11 images with MailOnline Travel - which one is YOUR favourite? Advertisement 'Captivated by the wonders of the underwater world, I yearned to share its beauty with others.' So says Fabi Fregonesi, a 39-year-old photographer who has spent hundreds of hours underwater capturing the 'magic' of the aquatic world. Fabi, from Brazil, began underwater photography in 2012 after discovering a 'passion' for scuba diving. Since then, she's travelled all over the world taking photos, with her work even placing in this year's esteemed Underwater Photographer of the Year competition. The award-winning photographer shares her stunning underwater images to her Instagram account @fabi_dive. She told MailOnline Travel: 'Underwater photography captivates me with its element of surprise and the thrill of capturing the unexpected. 'With each dive and each captured image, I deepen my understanding of marine life. Today, underwater photography is a really important part of my identity.' From a smiling shark in the Bahamas to a fascinating shipwreck in Brazil, Fabi shared 11 stunning underwater images with MailOnline Travel. Scroll down to decide which one's your favourite. Above is a mesmerising picture called 'Set Sail'. It captures the Virgo Wreck in Recife, Brazil, enveloped by a school of fish in a 'striking formation reminiscent of a ship's sail'. Fabi was awarded third place for this image in the Wrecks category of the Underwater Photographer of the Year competition 2024. She said: 'The sight of the shipwreck adorned with this living sail remains etched in my memory, evoking a sense of magic as if the vessel is poised to set sail once more' This image captures a shark ominously approaching a school of fish in the Galapagos Islands, Fabi's favourite place to take underwater photographs. She said: 'This incredible destination boasts unparalleled marine biodiversity. It's an underwater paradise, teeming with sharks, marine iguanas, mola mola, playful sea lions, turtles, graceful rays, and a dazzling array of fish' This image was taken at a craggy outcrop off the Mexican coast called Los Islotes, which is home to a colony of sea lions. Fabi says: 'A crucial aspect of underwater photography, which unfortunately some photographers overlook, is respecting marine life. I never touch or reposition animals for a better shot. I work with the environment as it presents itself' The above image shows a diver swimming among the Taurus Wrecks in Recife, Brazil. Fabi says: 'Recife boasts an underwater shipwreck park with approximately 20 sunken vessels. This underwater haven teems with marine life, offering visibility and warm waters' This picture shows a bull shark during a shark-feeding dive off the coast of Jupiter town, Florida. Fabi says: 'Popular culture often portrays sharks as menacing predators, fueling public fear. I initially shared this fear. However, encountering these magnificent creatures firsthand transformed my perspective' In this image captured off Jupiter's coast, Fabi captures a shark eating a fish. She notes: 'In my hundreds of shark encounters, I've never witnessed a situation where a diver was at risk or a shark exhibited aggression. The underwater realm is home to diverse and fascinating creatures, each playing a vital role in the marine ecosystem' This 'smiling shark' image was taken while diving off Tiger Beach in the Bahamas. Fabi says 'respecting these animals is crucial' and 'understanding their behaviour ensures a safe and enjoyable underwater experience for all' Pictured is a tiger shark approaching a diver with its mouth open during a feeding dive. Fabi says: 'While I love capturing all marine creatures, I have a particular fondness for sharks, especially the tiger shark' Fabi says: 'I feel incredibly fortunate to have had countless close encounters with a vast array of marine creatures, including whales, sharks of diverse species, dolphins, rays, and more. These experiences are truly transformative, offering a glimpse into a world few have the privilege to witness. Each dive leaves an unforgettable mark and a memory that I will carry with me.' The above image captures two sea lions playing in Los Islotes, Mexico A lemon shark captured up close in Jupiter, Florida, in an image that might frighten some people. However, Fabi says: 'I hesitate to label any marine creature as "dangerous". I believe that many animals are misunderstood and have been misrepresented as threats' It's served at cocktail bar Sip & Guzzle in Manhattan and comes on a gold platter The 'Royale with Cheese' contains one of the world's most expensive meats You'll need to savour every bite of this sandwich. And you'll be hoping it tastes good. Because it costs a whopping $150 (116). The 'Royale with Cheese' is the most expensive item on the menu at Sip & Guzzle, a cocktail bar in Manhattan. It's made from one of the world's most expensive meats and comes served on a gold platter. The dish was created by Mike Bagale, former executive chef of Chicago's three-Michelin-star Alinea, who oversees the Sip & Guzzle kitchen. Above - the $150 'Royale with Cheese' sandwich served at Sip & Guzzle in Manhattan Mike is known for his 'progressive' and 'experimental' cooking, with his menu paying homage to Japanese culture using his 'artistic eye' and the 'world's best ingredients'. For the Royale with Cheese, he uses an A5 Miyazaki wagyu tenderloin and adds a house-made cheese 'slice' made from aged white cheddar. He then layers on minced onions and Japanese barbecue sauce made from wasabi, smoked soy sauce, shio koji, brown sugar, tomato and rice vinegar. As for the bread, he uses the 'pillowy', 'cloud-like' shokupan milk bread, imported from the Tokyo bakery Ginza Nishikawa. The sandwich comes served inside an 'imaginative' gold box designed by HMH Iron Design, a New York-based metal fabricator company. If that isn't decadent enough, you can 'make it a happy meal' by adding a black truffle cherry soda float or a white truffle milkshake for an extra $50 (38). Thinking of making it yourself? You might need to dip into your savings. An 8lb Miyazaki tenderloin can set you back over $1,000 (780), and the loaf of shokupan bread costs $18 (14) alone. Sip & Guzzle is a split-level restaurant, with Sip (pictured) located in the basement and Guzzle upstairs Is the sandwich worth the money? Those who've tried it give it a firm thumbs up. TikToker Ella Kahan, known online as @chewyorkcity, described it as 'the star of the show' in her review of Sip & Guzzle. She said it is the 'fanciest cheeseburger you'll ever eat', and said it's made from 'cheesy, dreamy, meaty wagyu goodness'. TikToker @kaitlyneats also reviewed the sandwich, which she worked out to be around $30 (23) a bite. She said: 'Was it the best steak sandwich I've ever had? Probably. Would I ever buy it again? Probably not.' Sip & Guzzle is a split-level restaurant, with Sip located in the basement and Guzzle upstairs. The sandwich is part of Sip's menu, which also features a hot and crispy chicken 'electric sando' on shokupan bread. Meanwhile, Guzzle's menu boasts an extensive cocktail menu and the 'world's thinnest sandwich' made from ingredients that include 5j jamon (reputedly one of the world's best hams) and extremely fine French cheese. The restaurant operates primarily on a walk-in basis. While reservations can be made on Resy, the restaurant claims they are 'extremely limited' and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While Ryan Reynolds is away, Blake Lively wears a Wolverine T-shirt for Hugh Jackman. At least that's what the Gossip Girl star, 36, did this weekend while she went ziplining in New York City. 'When your mans away so you have the time of your life wearing your other mans shirt,' Lively wrote above the video she shared on her Instagram Story. The mom of four who channeled Deadpool in a red jumpsuit at the movie's premiere looked as youthful as ever without makeup and with her long blonde hair pulled back into a loose ponytail. The Green Lantern actress' T-shirt, which retails for $36, had three images of Wolverine howling at the moon on the front. While Ryan Reynolds is away, Blake Lively wears a Wolverine T-shirt for Hugh Jackman At least that's what the Gossip Girl star, 36, did this weekend while she went ziplining in New York City She tagged her husband, Jackman, the clothing brand HOMAGE and Boundless Adventures NY. The shirt was created in collaboration with Reynolds' Maximum Effort production company. Blake's T-shirt is part of Wade's Closet, 'a special collection of Deadpool designs hand-picked by Ryan Reynolds, fresh from Wade Wilson's personal closet.' The line of apparel is one of the many marketing tie-ins the Deadpool & Wolverine team put out. The collaborations include everything from Deadpool and Wolverine's favorite pizzas (including Wade Wilson's regular pineapple and black olive) courtesy of DiGiorno, Aviation Gin, Tim Hortons, Heinz Ketchup and Mustard, X-Box, Jack In the Box (Let's Clucking Go), and Heineken. Blake also shared a lengthy post on Instagram revealing how her cameo of Lady Deadpool came about and fans were surprised to learn the very meta character dates back to 2010 when she was filming The Green Lantern with her future husband. 'In 2010, I was on Gossip Girl and about to film my first superhero movie, Green Lantern, with my kind Canadian costar @vancityreynolds,' she captioned the post of shots from the premiere.'He told me, our other costar, another superhero newby @taikawaititi and all of us about @deadpoolmovie for the first time. It was a meta superhero. Most of us didnt know what exactly meta meant back then. Except Taika bc hes always been more brilliant than the rest of us mortals. Blake also shared a lengthy post on Instagram revealing how her cameo of Lady Deadpool came about Fans were surprised to learn the very meta character dates back to 2010 when she was filming The Green Lantern with her future husband Ryan told her about his idea for Deadpool during the shoot 14 years later Lively discovered an artist had drawn a photo of her as Lady Deadpool before Deadpool was a thing Now the third movie in the Deadpool franchise is in movies and she has a cameo as Lady Deadpool 'Just before all this in 2010, @robliefeld drew an unmasked Lady Deadpool for the first time, @deadpoolmovie wasnt real. And Rob had no idea I was working with @vancityreynolds,' she wrote '12 years later I read Robs post. A year after that, @deadpoolmovie3 was filmed. 'And today its in theaters. The universe has such a magical sense of humor sometimes,' she wrote 'We understood in theory, but how it would come together for an audience was murky, for everyone but him. It wasnt a real dream. The movie was never gonna happen.' 'Just before all this in 2010, @robliefeld drew an unmasked Lady Deadpool for the first time, go to the next slide for his words.@deadpoolmovie wasnt real. And Rob had no idea I was working with @vancityreynolds,' her caption continued. '12 years later I read Robs post. A year after that, @deadpoolmovie3 was filmed. 'And today its in theaters. The universe has such a magical sense of humor sometimes,' she wrote. Sofia Richie gave a special glimpse of her baby girl, Eloise, in sweet Instagram photos that were uploaded to her fans on Sunday. The 25-year-old model who recently celebrated her daughter turning two months old last weekend captioned the photo series with, 'Right where I want to be,' followed by a sunflower emoji. One image in the Instagram carousel was a picture taken from behind Sofia as she carried Eloise in her arms during a summer stroll. Richie donned a printed shirt and added a gray cap on top of her long locks that were styled into two braids. The bright sun shone down on the star as she enjoyed the warm weather while her little one sported a small, white bucket hat and pink socks. Sofia Richie, 25, gave a special glimpse of her baby girl, Eloise, in sweet Instagram snaps that were uploaded to her fans on Sunday One image in the Instagram carousel was a picture taken from behind Sofia as she carried Eloise in her arms during a summer stroll Another photo showed her husband Elliot whom she tied the knot with during a lavish ceremony in April 2023 sweetly holding the newborn. He could be seen standing inside what appeared to be a spacious living room as she cradled his daughter in his arms. Sofia also flaunted her baby girl's sense of fashion, and included a snap of Eloise wearing a cream-colored Dior shirt as well as a pair of patterned bottoms. An additional image was taken as the little one laid on her stomach inside a bassinet that was placed on a patch of green grass. Richie included a snap of her daughter's tiny feet, with one of her toes peeking through a shoe on her right foot. The daughter of Lionel Richie gave her fans a look at a scenic sunset at the beach, as waves crashed down onto the sandy shore. A photo of a birthday party was also added into the carousel of pictures, and Richie showed a long table decorated with greenery and lemons. Lastly, a cupcake placed on top of a white blanket was also added to the post, and was covered with a pink sugary frosting, colorful sprinkles and '2 months' written in teal icing. Another photo showed her husband Elliot whom she tied the knot with during a lavish ceremony in April 2023 sweetly holding the newborn Sofia also flaunted her baby girl's sense of fashion, and included a snap of Eloise wearing a cream-colored Dior shirt as well as a pair of patterned bottoms One image was taken as the little one laid on her stomach inside a bassinet that was placed on a patch of green grass Richie included a snap of her daughter's tiny feet, with one of her toes peeking through a shoe on her right foot The daughter of Lionel Richie gave her fans a look at a scenic sunset at the beach, as waves crashed down onto the sandy shore Earlier this month, Sofia celebrated her daughter turning two-months-old, after welcoming Eloise to the world on May 20. She jumped to her Instagram stories to ring in the special day, and uploaded a sweet snap of her daughter in a green gingham dress with a card that read 'Two months' next to her. Another photo showed the same leopard card that was propped up against a wicker stroller, with the tasty cupcake also in the snap. On May 24, Sofia announced that her daughter had been born just days earlier and penned, 'Eloise Samantha Grainge 52024 best day of my life.' Her middle name honors Elliot's later mother, Samantha Berg, who passed away in 2007 after slipping into a coma due to complications of childbirth. Richie also uploaded a black and white image as both she and her husband held their baby girl's feet in their hands. Last month in June, the beauty further celebrated the birth of her daughter and threw a floral-themed party in the backyard of her $26.9 million abode in Los Angeles. She uploaded a series of snaps at the time to her Instagram stories to give her 11 million followers a glimpse of the lavish bash. A photo of a birthday party was also added into the carousel of pictures, and Richie showed a long table decorated with greenery and lemons Lastly, a cupcake placed on top of a white blanket was also added and was covered with a pink sugary frosting, colorful sprinkles and '2 months' written in teal icing Earlier this month, Sofia celebrated her daughter turning two-months-old, after welcoming Eloise to the world on May 20 Another photo showed the same leopard card that was propped up against a wicker stroller, with a tasty cupcake also in the snap On May 24, Sofia announced that her daughter had been born just days earlier and penned, 'Eloise Samantha Grainge 52024 best day of my life' Guests in attendance took a seat at a long, rectangular table that was decked out with colorful floral arrangements, as well as a green, leaf-patterned tablecloth and green napkins Guests in attendance took a seat at a long, rectangular table that was decked out with colorful floral arrangements, as well as a green, leaf-patterned tablecloth and green napkins. Ornate, yellow cups and pink glasses were also placed next to the table settings, while yellow lemon decor was also seen around the floral bouquets. Umbrellas were placed over the table to offer shade under the California sunshine and Sofia added the text, 'Celebrating Eloise,' over the image. She also took a picture of a wooden table outside that had bowls filled with pearl bracelets on top for guests to take for a party game. A sign read: 'Don't say baby. Once you receive your bracelet, you cannot say the word baby. If you hear someone else say baby, you can take all their bracelets.' 'The person with the most bracelets at the end of the celebration will be named the winner.' Once the festivities commenced, attendees and the hosts were able to indulge in various tasty treats, such as berry tarts. Pink decorations were also placed in the backyard, such as a guest book that guests were able to write in with pink pens. Another image was taken as Richie cradled her newborn in her arms, and typed out, 'my whole world.' Umbrellas were placed over the table to offer shade under the California sunshine and Sofia added the text, 'Celebrating Eloise,' over the image Ornate, yellow cups and pink glasses were also placed next to the table settings, while yellow lemon decor was also seen around the floral bouquets She also took a picture of a wooden table outside that had bowls filled with pearl bracelets on top for guests to take for a party game Once the festivities commenced, attendees and the hosts were able to indulge in various tasty treats, such as berry tarts Another image was taken as Richie cradled her newborn in her arms, and typed out, 'my whole world' Shortly before welcoming her daughter, Sofia opened up about what she wanted to pass down to her daughter while talking to Nylon about beauty in March; seen in February in NYC Shortly before welcoming her daughter, Sofia opened up about what she wanted to pass down to her daughter while talking to Nylon about beauty in March. The star explained to the outlet at the time, 'I think that internal health is something I'll pass down to her.' 'But not only that, I'll encourage her to do what makes her feel like the best version of herself when it comes to her beauty routine and what makes her feel confident and most herself.' 'I think just inspiring her to follow how she feels and maybe follow the trends less,' Richie added. Nina Dobrev didn't let her injury get in the way of having fun in Paris on Sunday as she headed out for a romantic dinner. The Vampire Diaries star, 35, is recovering from a horrific dirt bike crash that left her hospitalised and requiring knee surgery. But she didn't let her bandages spoil her outfit, as she oozed Parisian chic in a Stella McCartney caped minidress which retails for 1,465. She accessorised with a dash of red lipstick and retro shades and toted her belongings in a silver bag. Clutching onto a black walking stick, the actress wore her raven locks in a high ponytail for the evening. Nina Dobrev didn't let her injury get in the way of having fun in Paris on Sunday as she headed out for a romantic dinner The actress, 35, oozed Parisian chic in a Stella McCartney caped minidress which retails for 1,465 and accessorised with a dash of red lipstick and retro shades The glamorous actress showed off her jaw-dropping physique in the figure-hugging number and smiled for the cameras as she left the Ritz hotel, wearing flat pointed sling backs from Charles & Keith. She was joined by her Olympian boyfriend Shaun White, a former professional snowboarder, 37, who looked dapper in smart blue trousers and short sleeved shirt. He carried a blazer in one hand as he lovingly helped Nina across the entrance and into a waiting car. The California-born snowboarder and skateboarder, is a five-time Olympian and took home Olympic gold medals in the half-pipe event in 2006, 2010 and 2018. He retired from snowboarding in 2022. Nina previously opened up about her biking injury in an Instagram post on May 20. She showed herself sat confidently on a dirt bike next to another photo of her in a hospital bed with a cast on her knee and a neck brace. Nina captioned the post: 'How it started vs how it's going'. In June, the actress updated fans on her recovery. On Saturday night Nina proved she was the epitome of chic in a navy blue pleated button dress and blazer, brown pointed flats and a matching belt and bag as she arrived at a Ralph Lauren event She was joined by her Olympian boyfriend Shaun White, a former professional snowboarder, 37, who matched his injured girlfriend's look with a navy blue suit, crisp white shirt and tie She posted three pictures to her Instagram Stories and explained that she was going through physiotherapy following the horror crash. She wrote: 'In case you've been wondering what I've been up to.' along with pictures of her in bed with a rehabilitation machine. The last photo in the series was a photo of her eating breakfast in bed, with the words 'Eat. Sleep. Physical therapy. Repeat.' Nina has been regularly updating fans on her recovery. In a post on Instagram, the actress wrote: 'Life looks a lil different lately,' alongside a carousel of photos detailing her recovery. 'Trading in the selfie for the leggie. Get ready for the leg content because thats all Ive got in my camera roll these days.' Nina has been regularly updating fans on her recovery and on an Instagram Story explained that she was going through physiotherapy following the horror crash (pictured June 5) The actress lost control of her dirt bike doing a wheelie and was thrown off but is slowly recovering and updating fans on her progress (pictured June 2) A month later, the Love-Hard actress shared that she had undergone surgery. She said: 'Surgery was a success. Thank you to everyone who has been sending kind messages, thoughts, prayers, and good vibes. 'I have been feeling the support and positive energy. It means more than you will ever know.' The actress lost control of her dirt bike doing a wheelie and was thrown off, according to Women's Health. Despite her injury, the star has continued to look stylish and hasn't let her knee brace interfere with her outfits. Ajay Rochester whipped her fans into a frenzy on Sunday when she shared a jaw-dropping photo of her rarely-seen 24-year-old son Kai. The Biggest Loser host, 55, posted the red hot picture to Facebook, which showed her son in his uniform as he worked as a security guard in Los Angeles. Kai's work getup consisting of a bulletproof vest, a black long-sleeve top and stylish aviator sunglasses. His blond hair was combed back and he looked all grown up with a rugged five o'clock shadow. Ajay captioned the photo with some proud words: 'My darling boy making his way through life and winning at it!' Many of Ajay's fans quickly took to the comment section to gush over her very hot son. 'Good looking boy you got there,' one person wrote and a second added: 'Handsome man in uniform.' Her son looked like a completely different person to how he did just three years ago, when he posed for some precious Christmas snaps alongside his mother. Ajay Rochester (pictured) whipped her fans into a frenzy on Sunday when she shared a jaw-dropping photo to social media of her rarely seen 24-year-old son Kai The Biggest Loser host, 55, posted the red hot picture to Facebook, which showed her son in his uniform as he worked hard at his security guard job in Los Angeles. Kai exuded confidence and style in his work getup consisting of a bulletproof vest and stylish aviator sunglasses In 2021, Rochester spoke candidly about raising a child with Asperger syndrome. The television presenter told New Idea that she and her son Kai have certainly faced some difficulties together over the years. Ajay said she'd always 'expected' to provide for her son well into adulthood because of his condition, but was beyond 'proud' of him after he landed a well-paid job. 'I've been paying his bills for years and keeping him in a house and frankly, I expected to be doing that for some time,' Ajay said. Many of Ajay's fans quickly took to the comment section to gush over her very hot son Her son looked like a completely different person to how he did just three years ago, when he posed for some precious Christmas snaps alongside his mother. (Pictured together in 2020) She explained that Kai had moved to Australia from LA - where he'd spent much of his childhood - in 2019, but struggled to find work after applying for over 100 jobs. Ajay, who hosted weight loss show The Biggest Loser from 2006 to 2009, had relocated to the U.S. in 2010. Her most recent TV appearance was on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2019, but she now mostly works behind the scenes as a casting agent. After a whirlwind weekend in Paris to support Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tom Cruise was spotted returning home to London. The 62-year-old actor was spotted at the Opening Ceremonies, a swimming relay event and a women's gymnastics event over the weekend. He was seen taking selfies with fans and even giving Lady Gaga a hug, after she performed during the Opening Ceremonies. The Mission: Impossible star returned home to London via helicopter after a weekend of Olympic action. The outing comes just a few weeks after he was spotted at Wimbledon, seated just a few spots down from fellow A-lister Julia Roberts. After a whirlwind weekend in Paris to support Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tom Cruise was spotted returning home to London. The Mission: Impossible star returned home to London via helicopter after a weekend of Olympic action Cruise was spotted wearing a stylish white polo shirt with black aviator-style sunglasses and a silver watch. He completed his look with dark blue jeans and black boots as he returned home to London. The actor has lived in London since 2021, nearly a decade after he split from his third wife Katie Holmes. Earlier this month, he was spotted filming a death-defying aerial sequence for the eighth Mission: Impossible movie, which currently doesn't have a title. The film reunites the actor, who plays spy Ethan Hunt, with longtime collaborator Christopher McQuarrie, who has directed the last four M:I movies. He will also reunite with longtime co-stars Ving Rhames, who has starred alongside Cruise in every M:I movie as Luther Stickell, and Simon Pegg, whose Benji Dunn debuted in 2006's Mission: Impossible III. Also returning is Henry Czerny (Eugene Kittridge), Vanessa Kirby (The White Widow), Pom Klementieff (Paris), Hayley Atwell (Grace), Shea Whigham (Jasper Briggs), Esai Morales (Gabriel) and Frederick Schmidt (Zola Mitsopolis). Franchise newcomers include Hannah Waddingham, Nick Offerman, Katy O'Brian, Indira Varma, Holt McCallany and Janet McTeer. Cruise was spotted wearing a stylish white polo shirt with black aviator-style sunglasses and a silver watch He completed his look with dark blue jeans and black boots as he returned home to London The actor has lived in London since 2021, nearly a decade after he split from his third wife Katie Holmes Cruise is also set to reunite with his Edge of Tomorrow and American Made director Doug Liman for what would be a historic project, teaming up with Space X. The untitled film - which Cruise and Liman wrote with McQuarrie - would be the first in Hollywood history to be actually filmed in outer space. He also had a highly-anticipated sequel to Edge of Tomorrow in development though there is no indication when that may move forward. The actor also has another McQuarrie film - The Gauntlet - in pre-production, starring alongside Scarlett Johansson. Lauren Brant and Barry Hall have been slammed over their revealing home birth photo shoot to announce the arrival of their fourth child Clay. Over the weekend, the couple shared a series of images that showed them cradling Clay in a birthing pool lit up with red lights, as well as Lauren on a bed cuddling the newborn as a bowl of placenta sat next to them. 'CLAY,' the parents captioned the picture series. 'Our son was born 20.7.24 at 8.33pm into our loving arms at home. It was magic," the post continued. 'We are all in the most beautiful bubble of love and are being held and supported by our incredible community. We look forward to sharing our home-birthing story with you.' Commenters were quick to call the couple out for revealing a little too much in the photos. 'The birthing pool is too much... reminds me of a horror movie,' one wrote. Lauren Brant and Barry Hall have been brutally mocked over their revealing home birth photo shoot to announce the arrival of their fourth child Clay over the weekend The couple shared a series of images that showed them cradling Clay in a birthing pool lit up with red lights, as well as Lauren on a bed cuddling the newborn as a bowl of placenta sat next to them Another commented with a similar sentiment, arguing that the intimate pictures should not be for public consumption. 'Some things including a bowl of placenta are for your family album not for the public domain,' they said. 'You have delivered a baby like millions of women do on a daily basis...no biggy.' Commenters were quick to call the couple out for revealing a little too much in the photos One likened the scene to something out of a 'horror movie' Another commented with a similar sentiment, arguing that the intimate pictures should not be for public consumption One reader said they were happy for Lauren and Barry, but the intimate pictures were too graphic. 'I'm happy for you but I don't get the need to make it all so graphically public,' the commenter said. 'You're not superheroes & women have been having babies since time began.' Yet another chimed in with: 'Seriously. Isn't anything private anymore? Why don't you keep that moment within the family. Billions of women have babies. We all thinks its special, but guess what. It's only special you your family.' It wasn't all negative though, with many fans quick to gush on the Instagram post. 'So beautiful. Congratulations,' wrote morel Simone Holtznagel. 'Congratulations!!!! He is so perfect,' added Bachelor in Paradise star Tara Pavlovic. 'Omg you finally did it!! You got a dark-haired baby! Def worth trying a 4th time for!!' wrote radio host Emily Jade O'Keeffe. 'I love him, he's so freaking cute! His brothers are going to be smitten. Sending you and Barry all the love and baby smells xx,' she continued. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Lauren and Barry for comment. The couple are already proud parents to three sons, Miller, six, Houston, four, and Samson, two The couple made the announcement that they were expecting a baby earlier this year. Lauren, 34, shared a gallery of precious photos to Instagram In January capturing Barry, 46, and their three sons cheekily pointing at her growing baby bump. The couple are already proud parents to three sons, Miller, six, Houston, four, and Samson, two. In June 2021, the couple confirmed they secretly married that February and were expecting their third child during an emotional interview on A Current Affair. Soap staple's former boss says he was stunned by explosive exchange EXCLUSIVE Home and Away heart-throb Nicholas Cartwright has lashed out at the show's former boss after he sent 'rude' messages about a gritty, new storyline involving his character. Dan Bennett, who ran the Seven soap staple as Network Script Executive between 2016 and 2017, says he unexpectedly provoked the ire of the Summer Bay star on Friday after responding to one of his posts of social media. 'I'd seen him promoting an upcoming (Home and Away) storyline about the River Boys coming back,' Bennett told Daily Mail Australia. 'The show's trying to re-energise that whole crime tone - the drugs and the devilishness - and all I've done is send him a message saying, 'zzz' - as in, 'that's a bit boring, we've seen all that before'. 'Of course, that's just my view; I'm just a fan these days. But next thing you know, I've got Nicholas Cartwright - one of the supposed stars of the show - sending me DMs and calling me 'a c**t'. 'I don't know Nicholas, I've never met him... so to think that's how he talks to fans is deeply concerning.' Summer Bay stud Nicholas Cartwright has been caught up in a fiery row with the show's former boss Cartwright with actress Zara Zoe - his real-life sister In excerpts of the fiery exchange seen by Daily Mail Australia, Bennett sparks the row with a number of 'zzz' messages. Cartwright, who plays Summer Bay's resident cop, Cash Newman, then replies by saying: 'Rude response from someone in the industry'. Bennett then hits back, saying: 'Or perhaps an informed response from someone who knows that show better than anyone else on the planet and is bereft to see it reverting to River Boy nonsense. 'The notion that we should support productions simply because we're in the 'industry' as opposed to supporting them because the quality is A+ is nonsense. 'How does anyone fair (sic) by applauding mediocrity as opposed to excellence?' Cartwright responds: 'Okay mate try not to be a c**t about it next time.' Bennett said he had since raised the exchange with Cartwright's bosses at Home and Away and considered the matter closed. 'I don't want to p*** on anyone's career, or get anyone in trouble, but I've messaged his seniors and been told that it's been dealt with and I'm happy with that,' he said. 'He was probably just having a bad day, and p***ed off about something else. But it wasn't a nice experience and I would hate to think he'd message anyone else something like that.' Daily Mail Australia has contacted Seven for comment. The unseemly dispute comes amid ongoing disquiet among some Home and Away cast members about the direction of the show's storylines, with some of the soap's biggest stars openly criticising the decision to move away from its original 'family values' premise. An excerpt from the Instagram conversation Home and Away legend Ray Meagher, who holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving actor in an Australia serial with his portrayal of Alf Stewart, railed against the inclusion of the 'River Boys' as far back as 2018. In a TV special filmed to celebrate the show's 30th anniversary, Meagher said he thought darker storylines featuring sex, drugs and firearms were a mistake. 'I thought that there was a period of about three years where I just thought that the show's strayed off its basic tracks for a while,' Meagher told 'Endless Summer' host Steve Pennells. 'I think when three characters have 80 percent of the storyline and there are 21 to 23 regular characters, plus another four or five guests, and they are scrambling for maybe 20 percent of the screen time, the show is a little bit out of whack. Some of Summer Bay's biggest stars are concerned about the return of the River Boys 'Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll wasn't the basic mission of Home and Away and so to have the show weighted heavily that way, in my opinion, was a bit of a mistake.' 'Every town has somebody that people go, "Oh, god, not him again" or whatever, or, "What's he up to now?" that sort of thing, there will always be a little bit of bad, but you can't have guns to heads, bank robberies, drug deals as you know, the basis for a show like this. ' Former Home and Away executive Dan Bennett wants the show to return to its core values Bennett, who has also held senior positions on Neighbours and Winners & Losers, said he tried to bring Home and Away back to its core values during his time leading the show. 'When I was on the show, I was proud of its history and tradition,' he said. 'It was about foster kids, and the elderly people on the program helping the younger ones overcome problems and fly to great heights. 'I made a conscience decision to bring back those traditional values. I put Kate Ritchie back in the big house and gave her foster kids because that's what Home and Away was about. 'For a long time Kate resisted and would say, "Please don't make me the new Pippa". But she had there so long that it was natural for her to become the new face of the show. 'That's what I always felt was the heart of Home and Away. 'The current writers on the program have made a clear decision to move away from that and go down a different path. And, hey, they're rating really well - so what do I know?' James Franco had a big night in Italy Sunday evening. The Interview star, 46 who recently hit the red carpet with his much younger girlfriend Isabel Pakzad in Cannes was honored during the 16th Edition Marateale Film Festival in Maratea, Italy. He looked stylish in a dark denim jacket with a gray graphic T-shirt underneath. His brunette locks were pushed back as she showed off his scruffy beard at the star studded event. The former USC professor teamed the look with white sneakers and light washed jeans. James Franco was honoured during the 16th Edition Marateale Film Festival in Maratea, Italy The festival was held from July 23 to the 27 at the Sul Mare Theatre within the Hotel Santavenere. Per the event's website, this year's theme was 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea' and honors both local and international film projects judged by a set panel. It follows 'five days dedicated to cinema and beyond, with events, screenings, meetings, all open to the public, under the artistic direction of Nicola Timpone with the collaboration of Antonella Caramia.' Franco's rare sighting comes after years of public exile and skepticism due to past allegations and actions on set. In 2019, the Rise of the Planet of the Apes actor was accused and sued by five of his students that attended his film school, Studio 4, for behaving inappropriately and sexually towards them one accused him of forcing her to perform oral sex. Francos attorney denied the allegations at the time, and eventually he settled the suit. In a podcast interview late last year, Mr Franco reiterated his belief that any sexual contact between him and his students had been consensual. Over the course of my teaching, I did sleep with students, and that was wrong, he said. Back in 2014, he had allegedly been messaging an underage girl, leading to him firing back: 'In my position, not only do I have to go through the embarrassing rituals of meeting someone, but sometimes it gets published for the world,' per Global News. He looked stylish in a dark denim jacket with a grey graphic T-shirt underneath The festival was held from July 23 to the 27 at the Sul Mare Theatre within the Hotel Santavenere; seen in 2024 Franco's rare sighting comes after years of public exile and skepticism due to past allegations and actions on set; seen in 2024 He has been romancing Find Your Friends actress, Isabel Pakzad, 28, for the past eight years; seen in 2024 The actor has since gone on to try and repair his career, laying low while continuing to take on minor roles in newer films like Largo Winch 3, which is slated to release on July 31. Now, Franco is working on a new project following Alina of Cuba, a biopic of former Cuban President Fidel Castro's daughter. He has been romancing Find Your Friends actress, Isabel Pakzad, 28, for the past eight years. Viewers were left stunned last month when popular face of Seven News in Queensland Sharyn Ghidella was abruptly sacked as part of a cost-cutting bloodbath at the network. And now theories have started to emerge over the reason behind her axing, with one sleuth suggesting it was a 'message' to other presenters at the network. Discussing Sharyn's axing on Media Spy forums, the viewer said they believe Seven are out to prove that no one is 'indispensable' and if other stars didn't accept their contracts they would be shown the door. 'I wonder if Sharyn was let go to send a message to other presenters (eg Mark Ferguson) to accept a contract that is on offer, as no one is indispensable,' the commenter wrote. 'It looks like it will backfire in the ratings for QLD but maybe achieve the outcome in other negotiations. 'Seems strange that they are hiring a new presenter in Melbourne to fill-in when they already have Blake Johnson, when costs are such a focus,' they added, referring to the recent hire of Karina Carvalho in Seven's Melbourne newsroom. Sharyn, the face of Seven News in Queensland since 2007, learned she had been axed from the network earlier this month after nearly four decades in the industry. Viewers were left stunned last month when popular face of Seven News in Queensland Sharyn Ghidella was abruptly sacked as part of a cost-cutting bloodbath at the network The popular host confirmed the news of her axing in a fiery Facebook post, revealing she was getting her hair done for a network promo when she received the news. 'When you work in TV for as long as I have, not a day goes by when you aren't expecting the proverbial tap on the shoulder... After 38 years, my shoulder tap has finally come,' she began. 'It wasn't quite how I expected it to end at Channel Seven. And now theories have started to emerge over the reason behind her axing, with one sleuth suggesting it was a 'message' to other presenters at the network 'I was actually sitting at the hairdressers for work, when I got the call informing me, that after 17 years with the network, my time was up.' She said her recent time at the network had been 'miserable' and she was glad to be leaving. 'While somewhat saddened by this decision, there is also some sense of relief. As has been widely reported, the past couple of weeks in TV has, sadly, been a miserable affair,' she wrote. 'A long list of talented, loyal and dedicated employees have been shown the door, in what seems to have been an interminable process of pulling the Band-Aid off slowly when it comes to removing what has been deemed excess stock. Sharyn, the face of Seven News in Queensland since 2007, learned she had been axed from the network earlier this month after nearly four decades in the industry 'These people are some of the best content creators in the business. They are good people and it's been heartbreaking to watch.' Sharyn added she was not a fan of the network's rebranding of its news programming, with comedian Mark Humphries doing regular skits and an astrology 'report'. 'I'm also not one to have my evening news served up with humour and horoscopes either, so, to be honest, it is time to go,' Ghidella admitted. She ended her take-no-prisoners post by thanking the many friends she had made throughout her long career with the network. Channel Seven's veteran weatherman Paul Burt has broken his silence after he was axed by the network. The Queensland presenter was recently cut by Seven after almost three decades in the industry as part of a cost-cutting bloodbath. Burt told The Courier Mail he was enjoying a weekend away in Melbourne when he received a phone call telling him to come into the office on his next day back. 'I felt instantly ill. I don't get many weekends off so it put a dampener on everything,' he admitted. 'By the time I went into the studio when I got back, some of my colleagues there had already been let go earlier that morning, so I knew what was coming.' Burt admitted he was left 'shocked and embarrassed' by the news and took aim at network bosses who offered him 'no leniency' in the firing. Burt presented his final weather segment on Saturday and took aim at the network during his sign off. 'If I'd had the opportunity I wouldn't have wanted to go this way. It's what happens when you get sacked,' he said at the end of the 6pm news. Channel Seven 's veteran weatherman Paul Burt has broken his silence after he was axed by the network The bulletin then awkwardly cut to a montage of Paul presenting segments over the years. He has worked for Ten, Nine and Seven during his lengthy media career. It comes after veteran Channel Seven presenter Sharyn Ghidella was also axed from the network earlier this month, after almost four decades in the news industry. Ghidella, 58, the face of Seven News in Queensland since 2007, confirmed the news in a fiery Facebook post. She said her 'tap on the shoulder' finally came while she was at the salon, admitting it was a 'relief' of sorts after several anxious weeks of media job cuts. Burt told The Courier Mail, he was enjoying a weekend away in Melbourne when he received a phone call telling him to come into the office on his next day back But she was determined not to go quietly as she took aim at the failing network for prioritising gimmicks like astrology readings over keeping veteran talent. 'When you work in TV for as long as I have, not a day goes by when you aren't expecting the proverbial tap on the shoulder... After 38 years, my shoulder tap has finally come,' Ghidella began. 'It wasn't quite how I expected it to end at Channel Seven. 'I was actually sitting at the hairdressers for work, when I got the call informing me, that after 17 years with the network, my time was up.' Ghidella then said her recent time at the network had been 'miserable' and she was glad to be heading out the door. 'While somewhat saddened by this decision, there is also some sense of relief. As has been widely reported, the past couple of weeks in TV has, sadly, been a miserable affair,' she wrote. Burt presented his final weather segment on Saturday and took aim at the network during his sign off 'A long list of talented, loyal and dedicated employees have been shown the door, in what seems to have been an interminable process of pulling the Band-Aid off slowly when it comes to removing what has been deemed excess stock. 'These people are some of the best content creators in the business. They are good people and it's been heartbreaking to watch.' Ghidella added she was not a fan of the network's rebranding of its news programming, which will see comedian Mark Humphries doing a comedy skit at 6.57pm tonight, and 'Astro Tash' start an astrology report next week. 'I'm also not one to have my evening news served up with humour and horoscopes either, so, to be honest, it is time to go,' Ghidella sniped. It comes after veteran Channel Seven presenter Sharyn Ghidella (pictured) was also axed from the network earlier this month, after almost four decades in the news industry 'As I'm known to say, the caravan moves on. There is certainly plenty of talent left in the building and I wish them nothing but the best moving forward.' She ended her take-no-prisoners post by thanking the many friends she had made throughout her long career with the network. 'A sincere thank you to everyone who has made this possible, so far, including past employers like the Stokes, Packer and Gleeson families and the news directors, executive producers and station managers who saw fit to give a kid from Babinda [in rural Queensland] a go. I owe you so much. 'Then there are the viewers... You will never know how much your kindness and support means. What a privilege it is to be welcomed into your homes to present you the news of the day,' she added. Robert Ovadia (pictured) has announced he will take Seven to the Fair Work Commission for unfair dismissal There has been a cost-cutting bloodbath at Seven as the network's news division comes under new management. Three major names to go at the network recently include veterans Robert Ovadia, Andrew Frampton and seasoned Melbourne crime reporter Cameron Baud, who is known among friends as the 'Harvester of Sorrow' due to his grim news beat. On the Sydney front, Ovadia - perhaps the most high profile of all the figures axed up until Ghidella's - has announced he will take Seven to the Fair Work Commission for unfair dismissal. Daily Mail Australia revealed Ovadia allegedly sent a series of strange, doctored images to a young female reporter before he was dumped. Snoop Dogg showed his support for Team USA while watching the Artistic Women's Gymnastics qualifications during the 2024 Paris Olympics on Sunday. The Drop It Like It's Hot rapper, 52 who recently cheered on swimmers as they claimed Team USA's first gold medal could be seen sitting in the crowded stands to watch the event at Bercy Arena. The music artist sported an Olympic jacket that was zipped up at the front and contained the stars of the American flag on the left sleeve and the back. The right side of the jacket had a red sleeve with the words 'USA' written in white lettering, while the NBC symbol could also be seen on the front. Shortly before the Olympic games began over the weekend, he was notably named a special correspondent for the network. Snoop Dogg, 52, showed his support for Team USA while watching the Artistic Women's Gymnastics qualifications during the 2024 Paris Olympics on Sunday The music artist sported an Olympic jacket that was zipped up at the front and contained the stars of the American flag on the left sleeve and back of the outer piece He additionally slipped into a pair of red-and-white pants, as well as white sneakers that were secured with laces. Snoop Dogg donned a printed shirt underneath, while also wearing a pair of stylish shades with star details at the top. For a final touch, the star added a glittering, gold-chained necklace with gold and silver pendants on the front. The record producer was seen applauding the gymnasts while sitting inside the arena, and also conversed to others next to him. At one point, he jumped to his feet to cheer on the athletes while holding a big smile on his face. Snoop Dogg whose real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. has been keeping busy during his time in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Earlier on Saturday, the rapper witnessed Team USA swimmers during the men's 4x100 freestyle relay take home the gold. During the NBC broadcast, cameras panned to show the star's reaction to the big win, as Australia came in second place. The right side of the jacket had a red sleeve with the words 'USA' written in white lettering He additionally slipped into a pair of red and white-colored pants as well as white sneakers that were secured with laces Snoop Dogg donned a printed shirt underneath, while also wearing a pair of stylish shades with star details at the top The record producer was seen applauding the gymnasts while sitting inside the arena, and also conversed to others next to him He could be seen on his feet in the stands next to swimmer Caeleb Dressel's wife and threw his arm out while calling out, 'One, two, three, gold, gold, gold!' Snoop Dogg then high-fived Dressel's wife, Meghan, who was cradling the couple's baby boy named August. The music artist also took on a big role on Friday during the Opening Ceremony, and was one of the individuals who had the chance to carry the Olympic torch in Paris. While talking to NBC shortly afterwards, the rapper reflected on the moment and said, 'It's too hard to put in words...' He recalled, 'holding the torch, walking through the city. Man, I felt like Muhammad Ali,' referencing to the late professional boxer. 'It was extraordinary, it was excellent. And I found out that when you hold the torch, you're a peace messenger. So, I really felt good about that.' In regards to the crowds that also witnessed him with the Olympic torch, Snoop Dogg added, 'I was waving, shaking hands, kissing the babies, doing what I do...putting my foot in the pavement.' 'Letting the people know that we're here. We're here for peace, love and unity, and great sportsmanship. That's what we're here for, baby.' And during a recent interview with Time Magazine, the rapper discussed taking on the role of a special correspondent for NBC during the 2024 Paris Olympics. When asked why he chose to take on the big job, he expressed, 'Why not? Not why. This is what I do, you know what I'm saying? I love being in front of the people.' 'I love sports. I know what I'm talking about. The network is appealing enough to understand that we deserve each other. So we're gonna make magic.' Snoop Dogg - whose real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. - has been keeping busy during his time in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics Earlier on Saturday, the rapper witnessed Team USA swimmers during the men's 4x100 freestyle relay take home the gold (seen above) He could be seen on his feet in the stands next to swimmer Caeleb Dressel's wife and threw his arm out while calling out, 'One, two, three, gold, gold, gold!'; seen on Saturday in Paris The music artist also took on a big role on Friday during the Opening Ceremony, and was one of the individuals who had the chance to carry the Olympic torch in Paris (seen above) While talking to NBC shortly afterwards, the rapper reflected on the moment and said, 'It's too hard to put in words...'; seen on Friday in Paris And during a recent interview with Time Magazine, the rapper discussed taking on the role of a special correspondent for NBC during the 2024 Paris Olympics; seen earlier this week on Thursday in Paris He also talked about when he first fell in love with the Olympic games, and told the outlet, 'Back then we only had so much.' 'It's not like right now, where you got so many different things you can watch and social media and all that s***. We only had TV.' 'There was only one TV in the house, so whatever one member of the family was watching, we were all forced to watch it. The Olympics was big because it would take over the whole house whenever it would come on.' Snoop Dogg added, 'And it's special 'cause you're seeing athletes for the first time in three, four years and they're representing the country. So that meant a lot, watching it as a kid.' Popular Channel Seven reality show Dancing With The Stars could be set for a shake-up. Speaking to Woman's Day, an insider has hinted current judge Craig Revel Horwood, 59, will be getting the chop to make way for a 2025 return of popular host Todd McKenney, also 59. 'The chatter behind the scenes is that Todd will be back and Craig will be given the boot in 2025,' they told the publication. The insider claimed Todd has better on-screen chemistry with host Sonia Kruger, 58. and fans are growing tired of Craig's persona. "He has better banter with Sonia and fans have drowned in too many of Craig's "darlings",' the insider claimed. Todd stepped away from the show in 2024 to star in a theatre production of The Odd Couple. The publication alleges the reshuffle came at the 'perfect time' as it allowed incoming co-host Dr Chris Brown, 45, to build up on-air chemistry with Sonia. It was also claimed that judge Helen Richey, 79, is driving the push to give Craig the boot, with the pair frequently butting heads on screen, although fellow judges Sharna Burgess, 39, and Mark Wilson, 61, are also keen to show Craig the door. Popular Channel Seven reality show Dancing With The Stars could be set for a shake-up. Speaking to Woman's Day , an insider has hinted current judge Craig Revel Horwood , 59, will be getting the chop to make way for a 2025 return of popular host Todd McKenney, 59 'Of course Craig is a true professional and he could do the judging on his head in any country around the world, but this will likely be his last season in Australia,' the insider told the publication. 'If Helen puts her foot down on this, consider the job is done.' Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Channel Seven for comment. The take-no-prisoners judge recently revealed another side to himself, making contestant Ben Cousins blush. 'The chatter behind the scenes is that Todd will be back and Craig will be given the boot in 2025,' they told the publication The insider claimed that Todd has better on-screen chemistry with host Sonia Kruger, 58. and that fans are growing tired of Craig's persona. 'You know what? I love your face. I can't keep my eyes off it, darling,' Craig admitted. Ben, 46, smiled at the comment and began to laugh as the flamboyant judge went on. 'I love it so much, I'd like to kiss it,' Craig said, causing the audience to gasp and cheer. 'That's what this dance [the cha-cha] is about. It's cheeky and you bring an energy to the dancefloor, which you should never leave at home.' Ben appeared very flattered as he giggled and blushed at the normally harsh judge's compliment. Terri Irwin joined her son Robert on yet another trip last week after being criticised by fans who think it is 'creepy' they spend so much time together. The mother-of-two, 60, was spotted leaving in Sydney with Robert, 20, and his potential new romance Charlotte Briggs after an appearance on The Project. While Robert and Charlotte went with a modern look as they passed through the airport, Terri took a bit of a step back in time. Wearing an orange jumper and grey jeans, the Irwin matriarch also carried some colourful luggage. In contrast to Robert and Charlotte's sleek black bags with rollers, Terri went with a Mickey Mouse carry-bag and a floral backpack. The conservationist completed her look with camo-patterned plimsols and a black face mask. Robert's close relationship with his mother Terri, 60, has been met with a backlash from fans who think the pair are 'joined at the hip'. Terri is often seen with Robert at red carpet events and her public appearances with the popular celebrity conservationist have increased since Robert's shock split from girlfriend Rorie Buckey in February. Reports later emerged that Terri's opinions of the relationship may have contributed to the break-up. Terri Irwin, 60, carried Mickey Mouse luggage through Sydney Airport as she joined her son Robert on yet another trip last week She also accompanied Robert to South Africa and was on set while he filmed I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! this year. Robert also invited Bindi and his two-year-old niece Grace Warier to join him while filming. Back in April, a producer for I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! expressed concerns for Robert and his ever-present mother. Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Australia at the time, the anonymous producer admitted that Terri's presence on set every day was 'a little creepy', saying: 'It is giving "bringing your-mum-to-school-camp" vibes.' Terri, who has been in charge of Robert and his big sister Bindi's showbiz careers since the death of Steve, apparently kept a close eye on everything Robert did while working on the program. 'The two have an excellent relationship and Terri couldn't be nicer but there are not many situations where employees will have their mum at work with them, just to make sure everything is above board,' the insider said The mother-of-two, 60, was spotted leaving in Sydney with Robert, 20, and his potential new romance Charlotte Briggs after an appearance on The Project In contrast to Robert and Charlotte's sleek black bags with rollers, Terri went with a Mickey Mouse carry-bag She also carried a floral backpack and a black handbag 'The rumour on set is that Robert has been withholding information from his mum on his dating life, which is pretty standard for most 20-year-old boys,' the source spilled, claiming that 'cracks will continue to appear' if Terri continues to get involved in his love life. Terri's parenting tactics continued to raise questions among Robert's fans when the pair posed together in multiple images shared to Instagram during their travels overseas in May. In two of the photos, Terri and her son were pictured beaming for the camera, and some detractors complained the pair are frequently seen together. 'Is Robert and his mother joined at the hip. She is in every pic you see of him,' one person wrote in the comments while another said: 'He's 20 now!' Last month a TV insider revealed to the Daily Mail Australia that Robert was planning to take to Terri to the 64th annual TV Week Logie Awards on August 18 as his 'special guest'. It is said producers of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, which Robert hosts alongside Julia Morris, are concerned having his mother, 59, on his arm could 'land with a massive thud with his core fans'. 'The son of the late Steve Irwin is arguably Australia's most talked about "bachelor" in the TV industry and everyone knows he wouldn't find it hard to pull a date. Which is why his decision seems a little odd,' the insider said. Michelle Yeoh looked fierce while reprising her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou in a new teaser for the upcoming TV movie Star Trek: Section 31. The 61-year-old Oscar-winning actress opened the official teaser that was released on Saturday at San Diego Comic-Con by striking a pose as the Beyonce song Formation provided the soundtrack. A title card informed the audience that the preview contains 'misfit content' as determined by the Starfleet Command Media Division. 'An emperor can only be loyal to duty,' a girl said in a voice-over. The clip then showed a young version of Philippa portrayed by Miku Martineau. Michelle Yeoh looked fierce while reprising her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou in a new teaser for the upcoming TV movie Star Trek: Section 31 on the Paramount+ service 'Thus does the empire remain strong,' she continued while shown leaving apparently bloody footprints. 'Thus does it grow,' she added while being honored as emperor by bowing subjects. Omari Hardwick, 50, was then shown in an unidentified role describing Philippa as a tyrant who murdered her own people by the millions. 'The past always catches up with you,' he warned. Philippa was seen with members of Section 31, which is a Black Ops division that conduct's Starfleet's spy work. 'Starfleet is here to make sure no one commits murder,' future USS Enterprise-C captain Rachel Garrett [Kacey Rohl] told Philippa. 'What a cute idea,' Philippa said in the next scene. Philippa was shown eating what looked like an eyeball and engaging in close combat. The 61-year-old Oscar-winning actress reprises her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou that she first originated in Discovery Michelle opened the official teaser that was released on Saturday at Comic-Con by striking a pose as the Beyonce song Formation provided the soundtrack The clip then showed a young version of Philippa portrayed by Miku Martineau 'Starfleet is here to make sure no one commits murder,' future USS Enterprise-C captain Rachel Garrett [Kacey Rohl] told Philippa A title card informed the audience that the preview contains 'misfit content' as determined by the Starfleet Command Media Division. 'You're a bad b****,' Rachel told her. 'Somebody's got to keep it lively, right?,' Philippa said as she was shown fighting again. Star Trek: Section 31 follows Philippa as she joins Section 31 to protect the United Federation of Planets while also facing the sins of her past. Michelle reprises her role of Philippa from the Paramount+ series Discovery that starred Sonequa Martin-Green as protagonist Michael Burnham. Discovery started with Philippa as the captain of the USS Shenzhou, but her character died in battle before returning in the Mirror Universe as the ruthless emperor of the Terran Empire. Star Trek: Section 31 is directed by Olatunde Osunsanmi and written by Craig Sweeny for Paramount+ and will be the first TV film in the Star Trek franchise. The TV movie is scheduled to be released in 2025. Channing Tatum has been in promo mode in recent days, taking part in the promotional push for his two latest films, Fly Me To The Moon and Deadpool & Wolverine. Just a couple days out from attending Comic-Con San Diego alongside the likes of Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman and the rest of the ensemble superhero cast, Tatum took to his Instagram page to share some throwback snaps with his fans. 'Hehehe these popped up on my phone. Man how many life times ago was this,' the Hollywood leading man joked with his fans. In the cover image, a young Tatum strikes a pose with loads of confidence and attitude dressed in an oversize brown trench coat with blue jeans, oversize shoes and a fedora that nearly covers his eyes, all while he flashes a cheeky grin for the camera. In a black-and-white photo, the budding actor around the same young pre-teen age, the Alabama native appears to be sitting in a bucket. Channing Tatum, 44, took to his Instagram page on Sunday to share a series of throwback snaps from his childhood. In the cover photo, a young Channing shows some major confidence and attitude when he struck a pose in an oversize coat and fedora Tatum, now 44, appears to be just a few years older in the third photo showing him during his elementary school days, complete with a wide grin and his dark brown hair in a spiky style. He's seen clutching an umbrella handle in the fourth and final photo in the set, which is another one from his more younger days seemingly wearing the same wide-brim hat as the first photo. Just in the last few weeks, the leading man had been globetrotting with leading lady Scarlett Johansson and others in promotion of their new film Fly Me To The Moon. The stars and their colleagues have hit a number of big cities for premiere events, including New York City, Madrid, Spain, and Berlin, to name just a few. And then he joined the ensemble cast for the promo push for Deadpool & Wolverine at Comic-Con San Diego over the weekend. He landed a small role in the latest superhero adventure as Remy LeBeau / Gambit, alongside a plethora of other stars representing their superhero characters. While Reynolds and Jackman lead the way as Deadpool and Wolverine, along with Emma Corrin, Dafne Keen, Jennifer Garner, Chris Evans, Wesley Snipes, as well as director Shawn levy. In black-and-white photo, the budding actor around the same young pre-teen age, the Cullman, Alabama native appears to be sitting in a bucket Tatum, now 44, appears to be just a few years older in the third photo showing him during his elementary school days, complete with a wide grin and his dark brown hair in a spiky style He's seen clutching an umbrella handle in the fourth and final photo in the set, which is another one from his more younger days seemingly wearing the same wide-brim hat as the first photo In his most rewarding job, Tatum is 'daddy' to his 11-year-old daughter Everly, whom he shares with his ex-wife Jenna Dewan. The former couple first met on the set of their dance hit Step Up back in 2006, and proceeded to start dating soon after. Eventually, they got married in July 2009, in Malibu, California, in front of a large guest list of some 220 friends and family. Among Tatum's recent promo tours includes a number of stops around the world for romantic comedy drama film, Fly Me To The Moon, with co-star Scarlett Johansson The usual leading man also promoted his small role in Deadpool & Wolverine; the stars included Ryan Reynolds, director Shawn Levy, actors Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Dafne Keen, Jennifer Garner, Chris Evans, Tatum and Wesley Snipes The superheroes posed together at the Comic-Con in San Diego on Friday Ultimately, Tatum and Dewan welcomed their daughter, Everly, in May 2013. Sadly, the pair announced their separation in 2018 and finalized their divorce a year later. Dewan, who has since gotten engaged to Steve Kazee, has welcome two more children into her blended family, a son Callum, four, and a daughter Rhiannon, who only just arrived on Planet Earth one month ago. Tatum also recently finished shooting his new thriller film, Blink Twice, which was co-written and directed by Zoe Kravitz, whom he later started dating. The film is set to hit theaters on August 23. Christine McGuinness sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy blue bikini as she posed for sizzling Instagram snaps during a lavish getaway on Sunday. The model, 36, looked incredible in the eye catching blue two-piece which showed off her amazing figure as she posed up a storm for photos. Leaving her long blonde tresses loose in beach waves, Christine flashed a smile as she looked away from the camera while relaxing on a sun lounger. The mother-of-three shielded from the sun behind a pair of chunky black sunglasses as she worked on her glowing tan. She posed for a stunning selfie before cooling off from the sun in a luxury swimming pool. Christine McGuinness sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy blue bikini as she posed for sizzling Instagram snaps during a lavish getaway on Sunday The model, 36, looked incredible in the eye catching blue two-piece which showed off her amazing figure as she posed up a storm for photos in a swimming pool Christine later slipped into a stylish black bodysuit and matching shorts as she posed in her hotel with a mascot. She kept comfortable in a pair of Chloe sandals and pulled her long blonde locks up into a high ponytail. It comes after Christine revealed she is sure she'll 'find love again' after splitting from her husband Paddy McGuinness in 2022. She shared in a new interview that she is 'happily single' and knows that it's currently 'the right thing for her,' days after it was reported that she and Paddy had settled their divorce amicably out of court. Christine told The Mirror: 'I'm very happily single. That's the right thing for me. I know that I deserve love and I know that one day I will find love again.' Earlier this month, it was revealed that Christine has been enjoying a holiday' with 'tomboy' musician Roxxxan, after they fuelled romance rumours with a cosy footsie snap. The model added: 'I love being an LGBTQI ally. Nobody judges anybody. The LGBTQI community are conformable within themselves. There's no jealousy. I wish the whole world was a little bit more like that.' Christine, who is set to compete on the new series of Celebrity Masterchef, added she's found a new lease of life since turning 35. Leaving her long blonde tresses loose in beach waves, Christine shielded from the sun behind a pair of chunky black sunglasses Christine later slipped into a stylish black bodysuit and matching shorts as she posed in her hotel with a mascot It comes after the mother-of-three revealed she is sure she'll 'find love again' after splitting from her husband Paddy McGuinness in 2022 She said: 'Something quite magical happens when a woman turns 35. What can I do to make myself happy? As a mum, you've always got someone above you. Everything I do is for them. I want to travel more. I want to go to Thailand. I'd love to go to America. I'd love to do a travel show.' On Sunday, it was reported that Christine and Paddy had settled their divorce amicably, avoiding a lengthy court battle. The pair have maintained a strong relationship and still live together while co-parenting their three children - twins Leo and Penelope, 10, and Felicity, aged seven. A source told The Sun: 'They managed to settle the divorce out of court and have kept everything amicable. 'They have separate bedrooms and a house in Cheshire big enough for them all, so there is no need to move yet. 'But they probably will sell it down the line and get their own places.' To some he's the flamboyant former mayor of Geelong, to others the pink haired paparazzo with a penchant for implanted abdominals. But while he lost his mayoral seat in the Australian city eight years ago, Darryn Lyons proved old habits die hard in a series of recent Instagram posts. The entrepreneur gained notoriety in the United Kingdom after revealing a set of perfectly chiselled, and completely fake, abdominal muscles while appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in 2011. And Lyons, 58, confirmed the silicon six-pack was still present and correct as he stripped off his shirt for an Instagram video in July. Instead of regular gym visits, Lyons, a former professional celebrity photographer, had fat removal surgery in 2009 to achieve his washboard six-pack. Darryn Lyons confirmed his notorious fake abs are still present and correct as he took to Instagram in July (right) 13-years after his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother (left) Instead of regular gym visits, Lyons, a former professional celebrity photographer, had fat removal surgery in 2009 to achieve his washboard six-pack The then pink-haired housemate confided in co-star Paddy Doherty and bared his torso in the bedroom to reveal the transformation. Talking about the procedure, Lyons said: 'I had contouring done to my body. 'I had to get really fit and lose a fair bit of weight. It takes away all the fat around it and actually lets your natural abs be there. 'Basically it's the male version of a boob job.' An impressed Paddy called Lyons' new look 'the bees knees', as photographer Lyons added: 'I'm over the moon with it.' Lyons previously admitted the cosmetic surgery means his often needs to fine tune his physique. 'My problem is that all the fat keeps pushing the abs out,' he told Daily Mail Australia in 2018. 'I'm looking more like a Ninja Turtle these days than a ripped, spartan specimen.' 'Basically it's the male version of a boob job,' he said during his appearance on celebrity Big Brother in 2011 WHAT IS BODY SCULPTING? Body Sculpting is a form of targeted liposuction that can be used to give the appearance of a six-pack in men. Fat is removed through a small hollow tube inserted through one or more incisions. This creates ripples in the abdominal area allowing the underlying abdominal muscles to show greater detail. Most incisions are hidden in the natural body creases of the body leaving very small scars. The private procedure costs around 2,000 for one area such as the upper or lower abdomen. However, plastic surgeons such as Dr Henry Mentz in Houston, say the procedure is not a substitute for weight loss and is best performed on people of normal weight with pockets of fat. Advertisement Lyons confirmed the silicon six-pack was still present and correct as he stripped off his shirt for an Instagram video in July Following his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother, Lyons' photo agency went into administration after 20 years of selling paparazzi shots to some of the world's largest magazines and newspapers, with Mr Lyons finding himself idle again. So his head turned to politics, a far cry from the career path he had taken up aged 22 when he moved to London to start his long-stint as a photographer, according to Bay 93.9. Moving back to his hometown of Geelong, where his Baptist parents still lived and he had attended Geelong East Technical School, Lyons ran for mayor and won in 2013. The Victorian government later dismissed the former photographer and the Greater Geelong City Council after a Commission of Inquiry found that the council was riven with conflict. Adam Peaty's ex girlfriend Eirianedd Munro shared a sweet supportive message after the swimmer won a silver medal at the Paris Olympics on Sunday night. She was watching the event at home as Italian underdog Nicolo Martinenghi beat Adam, 29, in the 100m Breaststroke final by just 0.02 seconds. The pair's three-year-old son George was in the stands with Adam's new girlfriend Holly Ramsay, 24, - the daughter of TV chef Gordon. And while Eiri - who split from the swimmer in 2022 - wasn't in Paris she took to Instagram with a kind message saying George was 'so proud of him'. She wrote: 'Congratulations, Adam. George is so proud of you! He doesn't see the worth of a medal, but the absolute strength and determination that got you it.' Adam Peaty's ex girlfriend Eirianedd Munro shared a sweet supportive message after the swimmer won a silver medal at the Paris Olympics on Sunday night While Eiri - who split from the swimmer in 2022 - wasn't in Paris she took to Instagram with a kind message saying their son George was 'so proud of him' (seen together) 'These are the qualities I pray he inherits. This moment will inspire him and drive him for the rest of his life. Thank you for giving him that.' Adam was first rumoured to be dating Holly in late 2022 after breaking up with his ex Eirianedd. Adam explained in his breakup post at the time that the best way to provide a 'happy' and 'healthy' home environment for their son George was to end their romantic relationship. He also apologised to Eiri and his son for 'letting them down'. Hours later Eiri, 26, posted about their break-up on Instagram saying: 'The last three years have been so, so, amazing. Our little family have experienced so much laughter, love, and joy. 'You guys have been such a significant part of that. This next chapter of my life is surely going to be a difficult one. I would appreciate that people would refrain from commenting, speculating, or messaging. 'I have shared so much of my life, but for now, I am choosing privacy and I hope that you will all respect that. 'I appreciate you all so much and I'm so thankful for all the fun and opportunities you have given me. I am going to be taking a break from social media, so goodbye for now. Thank you so much for everything.' She wrote: 'Congratulations, Adam. George is so proud of you! He doesn't see the worth of a medal, but the absolute strength and determination that got you it' Adam explained in his breakup post at the time that the best way to provide a 'happy' and 'healthy' home environment for their son George was to end their romantic relationship The pair's three-year-old son George was in the stands in Paris with Adam's new girlfriend Holly Ramsay, 24, - the daughter of TV chef Gordon Holly kissed him before George joined them in a cuddle and she then handed over the little one to his father Meanwhile Holly was in the stands supporting Adam in Paris on Sunday. An emotional Adam broke down in tears during a TV interview before making his way to the stands to embrace his loved ones. Adam assured his interviewer that he wasn't crying because he didn't achieve the gold medal, but because of the journey he had been on to be there. Holly kissed him before George joined them in a cuddle and she then handed over the little one to his father. Adam shared the silver with American world champion Nic Fink after they both clocked 59.05sec, while his Chinese rival Haiyang Qin was back in seventh. In an interview he chocked up recalling just how hard it has been for him to even make it to Paris, having taken time out of the sport last year after suffering depression. 'It's been a very long way back,' said Adam. 'I gave it my absolute all there. It doesn't matter what the time says, or the result, because in my heart I have already won. 'I'm not crying because I've come second. I am crying because it just took so much to get here. These are happy tears because I have given it my absolute best every single day and I can't be upset about that. 'It's just incredibly hard. To win it once, and to win it again, and to try and win it again. 'Everything I have done to this point has happened for a reason, and I am so happy I can race the best in the world and come second. 'I am almost an older man here now. I can't have that relentless every single day without a sacrifice of some sort. 'It comes in many ways, my timing, my energy, my relationships. It is very hard to compete with the younger ones, but I am so happy with that because in my heart I couldn't have done more.' It comes after Holly took to her shared a snap of her newly manicured nails to Instagram that were painted with Adam's initials. She also shared a photo of her 'pool essentials' which were a cuddly toy and Spiderman figurine, while watching with George. Adam, who almost quit the sport last year, had vowed to 'give it everything' to win gold at his third Olympic Games. But he was beaten by just two hundredths of a second alongside Nick Fink who came in at the same time. His arch-rival Qin Haiyang from China came seventh. On Friday Holly praised her boyfriend of one year, calling him an amazing father and adding that she was thankful to have watched him in his competitions. The swimmer has previously been candid about his battles with depression and alcoholism but is happier than ever since meeting Holly in 2023. An emotional Adam broke down in tears during a TV interview before making his way to the stands to embrace his loved ones Peaty shared the silver with American world champion Nic Fink after they both clocked 59.05sec, while his Chinese rival Haiyang Qin was back in seventh In an interview he chocked up recalling just how hard it has been for him to even make it to Paris, having taken time out of the sport last year after suffering depression (L-R) Silver medallist Britain's Adam Peaty, gold medallist Italy's Nicolo Martinenghi and silver medallist US' Nic Fink In the post shared on Instagram, Holly said: 'It has been an absolute privilege to have watched you this last year. Your determination and dedication is unmatched. 'Hours of training, team meetings, gym, physio and still you have been the best father to George & the best partner to me. Being able to watch so many training sessions & host team breakfasts has made me so thankful to be a part of your world. 'I love you. Go out there and smash it. Enjoy it all, you deserve everything and more. 'Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. - 1 Corinthians 16:13'. A Hollywood hunk is completely transformed with prosthetics in the official trailer for new HBO series The Penguin. Colin Farrell, 48, is unrecognisable as Oz Cobb aka The Penguin in the clip, which offers viewers a glimpse into the upcoming eight-episode DC series based on the villainous Batman character. The Penguin follows the events that take place after 2022's The Batman, which starred Robert Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz. The plot sees Colin's character Oz attempt to take hold of Gotham's world of crime. The latest trailer opens with the main character slow dancing with his mother, who reminds him he promised her 'a beautiful life.' Another character is heard telling Oz, 'Penguin you walk in here like you mean something, we're in the middle of a gang war' Farrell transformed his face and body with extensive special FX makeup and prosthetics to play the iconic Batman villain He assures her, 'I'm working on it, Ma,' before stating in a voiceover that 'the world isn't set up for the honest man to succeed.' Oz then reiterates, 'That aint the way the world works,' as viewers are shown a gruesome scene of him stabbing someone and later shooting another character. He introduces the prospect of a 'gang war' as Oz relays his strategy to 'burn down an empire from the inside out.' In another scene the villain is in a one-on-one conversation with a young male, he says, 'Americas a hustle.' Another character is heard telling Oz, 'Penguin you walk in here like you mean something, we're in the middle of a gang war'. In a voiceover, Oz declares, 'The streets are talking again and there's only one man big enough to run this city'. Elsewhere in the trailer, Oz comes face to face with Sofia Falcone, who is played by Cristin Milioti, and reveals she is 'rehabilitated' following being locked up. A young guy later tells Oz he 'can help' him because he 'has ambition' but after what seems they team up, Oz is seen holding a gun to the youngsters head. The plot sees Colin's character Oz attempt to take hold of Gotham's world of crime In the trailer, Oz comes face to face with Sofia Falcone, who is played by Cristin Milioti, (pictured) and reveals she is 'rehabilitated' following being locked up The Hollywood star, 48, was unrecognisable as Oz Cobb aka The Penguin as viewers got a glimpse into the upcoming eight-episode DC series based on the villainous Batman character Actor Colin Farrell looked worlds away from himself as he was seen in the explosive official trailer of his new HBO series The Penguin on Sunday Rounding off the explosive trailer, Oz warns, 'Trust me, it's only the beginning' as he is seen driving a car covered in blood. Colin appeared at Comic-Con in San Diego this weekend where the new trailer was unveiled. Rhenzy Feliz, Michael Kelly, Shohreh Aghdashloo, and Deirdre OConnell also appear in the series. James Madio, Theo Rossi, Scott Cohen, Clancy Brown, Carmen Ejogo, and Michael Zegen round out the cast. Colin pulled off a remarkable transformation for the role, appearing unrecognisable throughout the production. Producer Matt Reeves also confirmed at Comic-Con that Colin will return for his next Batman film, which begins shooting in 2025. Colin said: 'The lore of this world held such an attraction for me'. Despite being 'a disaster,' Colin said The Penguin was a 'tasty character' to explore. The show will premiere on Thursday, September 19 and will be available to stream on Sky and streaming service NOW. Gwyneth Paltrow cut a fashion forward figure on Saturday as she was joined by her close pal Sheryl Berkoff for a shopping spree in the Hamptons. The actress, 51, displayed her effortless style in a flowing blue and white striped maxi dress, with a low scoop neckline giving a glimpse of her cleavage. The Oscar winner sported a beaded turquoise necklace and simple tote bag, while giving her look a casual touch by teaming it with white trainers. Her long blonde hair in its usual straightened style, Gwyneth shielded her eyes behind a pair of oversized black sunglasses. While Sheryl, 63, put on a leggy display in a pair of denim cutoff shorts paired with a navy blue shirt and a snakeskin belt. Gwyneth Paltrow cut a fashion forward figure on Saturday as she was joined by her close pal Sheryl Berkoff for a shopping spree in the Hamptons The actress, 51, displayed her effortless style in a flowing blue and white striped maxi dress, with a low scoop neckline giving a glimpse of her cleavage The makeup artist carried a matching tote bag to her friend and also toted a black handbag, while sipping on an iced coffee. The wife of Rob Lowe accessorised with a trio of layered necklaces and matching bracelets and added white trainers and black shades. Gwyneth and Sheryl have been friends for many years, with the movie star once revealing that Sheryl had first taught her how to 'give a blowjob' when she was a teenager. She made the racy revelation to actor Rob, 60, back in 2020 during an appearance on his Literally! podcast, crediting Sheryl for teaching her the proper oral sex 'technique'. She confessed she had met Sheryl when she 'was 15 or 16' when she was doing Gwyneth's mother Blythe Danner's makeup for a TV movie, and was 'immediately obsessed with her.' She explained: 'First of all, she was dating Keanu Reeves, who was my celebrity crush. And she was so cool.' While visiting the Florida set, Gwyneth spent plenty of quality time with Sheryl, which included secret smoke breaks and imparting of sex tips. She recalled: 'She knew that I was sneaking cigarettes, and she would come smoke with me behind the trailer. And, she taught me how to give a blow job, and you know, all the classic Sheryl stuff. Gwyneth and Sheryl have been friends for many years, with the movie star once revealing that Sheryl had first taught her how to 'give a blowjob' when she was a teenager (pictured in 1993) She made the racy revelation to actor Rob, 60, back in 2020 during an appearance on his Literally! podcast, crediting Sheryl for teaching her the proper oral sex 'technique' (pictured with Rob in 2015) Gwyneth met Sheryl when she 'was 15 or 16' and spent plenty of quality time with her, which included secret smoke breaks and imparting of sex tips (Sheryl and Rob pictured in 1992) Without going into detail Gwyneth explained to Rob that 'it was less about remembering the technique -- although I'm sure that I implemented it the first chance I got. 'It was so cool to have someone treat me like an adult and see me as like a young woman and someone who is sexual. She just made me feel so free.' The Goop founder reiterated that she just 'worshipped' Sheryl and 'thought she was literally the coolest chick of all time. 'She was so awesome to me. And I was a high school kid. Like, the fact that she's loved me that much before I was anyone or anything, you know?' Rob and Sheryl, who share sons Matthew, 31, and John, 29, have been married since 1991, after beginning a romance on the set of his 1990 thriller Bad Influence. In 2022, the Parks and Recreation star opened up about Gwyneth's shocking confession during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. The actor joked that her ex Chris Martin and current husband Brad Falchuk owed Sheryl a thank you. Rob explained: 'Here's the thing: The good news is my wife doesn't watch anything I do so she won't be watching this, so I can say it. Rob and Sheryl, who share sons Matthew, 31, and John, 29, have been married since 1991, after beginning a romance on the set of his 1990 thriller Bad Influence (pictured in 2019) In 2022, the Parks and Recreation star opened up about Gwyneth's shocking confession during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! (pictured) The actor joked that her ex Chris Martin and current husband Brad Falchuk owed Sheryl a thank you (Gwyneth and Chris pictured together in 2014) 'When Gwyneth was a little, precocious 18 year old, my wife was still a makeup artist on a movie that Gwyneth's mother Blythe Danner was working on. 'Gwyneth came to visit and Sheryl would give her cigarettes and they'd go out and smoke behind the trailers. She was like a big sister to Gwyneth, still is.' 'And, apparently, Gwyneth told me on the podcast, I had no idea but I must thank her, that my wife taught Gwyneth how to how should we say this on network television? It's your show,' teased Rob as he looked to Jimmy for guidance. Jimmy laughed as he advised: 'I think 'perform oral sex' would be the way to go. Which is a very nice thing for her to do.' Rob then quipped: 'Or, as I like to say, Chris Martin and Brad Falchuk, you're welcome!' Gwyneth married Coldplay frontman Chris, 47, in 2003 and they went on to welcome daughter Apple, 20 and son Moses, 18, before separating in 2014, which the Seven star famously described as a 'conscious uncoupling.' She went on to tie the knot with writer and producer Brad, 53, in 2018 after meeting on the set of Glee, which he co-created with Ryan Murphy, while Chris has been dating actress Dakota Johnson since 2017. Gwyneth married Coldplay frontman Chris, 47, in 2003 and they went on to welcome daughter Apple, 20 and son Moses, 18, before separating in 2014, which the Seven star famously described as a 'conscious uncoupling' (pictured with Apple and Moses) One could be forgiven for thinking Team USA had clinched another gold as whoops and cheers echoed around the Olympics Aquatic Centre in Saint Denis on Sunday. But it was veteran star Tom Cruise winning the accolades after taking in another discipline during his weekend stay in Paris for the Olympic Games. The Hollywood actor, 62, blew kisses to fans as he watched a swimming relay event after cheering on Simone Biles in the women's gymnastics. He was seen taking selfies with fans and even giving Lady Gaga a hug, after she performed during the Opening Ceremonies. The Mission: Impossible star later returned to London via helicopter after his weekend of Olympic action. Tom Cruise was seen waving to fans after being given a. rousing reception at the Olympics Aquatic Centre in Saint Denis on Sunday The Hollywood actor blew kisses to fans as he watched a swimming relay event after cheering on Simone Biles in the women's gymnastics The outing comes just a few weeks after he was spotted at Wimbledon, seated just a few spots down from fellow A-lister Julia Roberts. Cruise was spotted wearing a stylish white polo shirt with black aviator-style sunglasses and a silver watch. He completed his look with dark blue jeans and black boots as he returned home to London. The actor has lived in London since 2021, nearly a decade after he split from his third wife Katie Holmes. Earlier this month, he was spotted filming a death-defying aerial sequence for the eighth Mission: Impossible movie, which currently doesn't have a title. The film reunites the actor, who plays spy Ethan Hunt, with longtime collaborator Christopher McQuarrie, who has directed the last four M:I movies. He will also reunite with longtime co-stars Ving Rhames, who has starred alongside Cruise in every M:I movie as Luther Stickell, and Simon Pegg, whose Benji Dunn debuted in 2006's Mission: Impossible III. Also returning is Henry Czerny (Eugene Kittridge), Vanessa Kirby (The White Widow), Pom Klementieff (Paris), Hayley Atwell (Grace), Shea Whigham (Jasper Briggs), Esai Morales (Gabriel) and Frederick Schmidt (Zola Mitsopolis). After a whirlwind weekend in Paris to support Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tom was spotted returning home to London The Mission: Impossible star returned home to London via helicopter after a weekend of Olympic action Franchise newcomers include Hannah Waddingham, Nick Offerman, Katy O'Brian, Indira Varma, Holt McCallany and Janet McTeer. Cruise is also set to reunite with his Edge of Tomorrow and American Made director Doug Liman for what would be a historic project, teaming up with Space X. The untitled film - which Cruise and Liman wrote with McQuarrie - would be the first in Hollywood history to be actually filmed in outer space. He also had a highly-anticipated sequel to Edge of Tomorrow in development though there is no indication when that may move forward. The actor also has another McQuarrie film - The Gauntlet - in pre-production, starring alongside Scarlett Johansson. Cruise was spotted wearing a stylish white polo shirt with black aviator-style sunglasses and a silver watch Good Morning Britain surprised Andi Peters live on air on Monday morning, as they presented him with a special cake to celebrate his birthday. But the TV presenter then shocked his fellow stars in return as he revealed that he was turning 54 years old, despite his ageless appearance. Andi appeared in the ITV studios to present his usual competition segment for the viewers at home to bag some cash. However, host Ranvir Singh then stopped him, saying: 'Normally, Andi you would tell us a bit more about the competition, but we've been keeping a bit quiet today because it's a very special day... It's your birthday today!' Birthday music began playing and Ranvir joined co-host Ed Balls in dancing along, before telling Andi: 'We've got a special surprise for you. Do you want to say how old you are?' Good Morning Britain surprised Andi Peters live on air on Monday morning, as they presented him with a special cake to celebrate his birthday But the TV presenter then shocked his fellow stars in return as he revealed that he was turning 54 years old, despite his ageless appearance Andi cut his teeth in children's TV, beginning with an appearance in the BBC 's iconic Broom Cupboard in 1989 (pictured in 2000) The TV star replied: 'I'm 54', before repeating himself as Ranvir gasped in shock and said: 'Yeah but look a his face? 54!' Andi reiterated his age once more, before smugly gesturing at his youthful face and jokingly saying: 'I know, I know.' Ranvir then revealed his surprise, saying: 'We have had a cake made of you doing what you do best - broadcasting from the beach!' Weatherman Alex Beresford appeared carrying a huge tiered cake, covered in blue icing to resemble the sea and crumbs down the side as sand. While on top of the cake was a palm tree with a little fondant figure of Andi reading a GMB book lying on a sun lounger. As Alex brought it over to Andi, he quipped: 'I tell you what, it weighs as much as Andi's biceps!' A delighted Andi declared: 'That is one heck of a cake!' as Alex added: 'It smells amazing.' Andi offered: 'You're very welcome to have some - do you do carbs? to which Alex referenced Andi's ripped physique and shot back: 'You don't do carbs obviously!' Birthday music began playing and Ranvir joined co-host Ed Balls in dancing along, before telling Andi: 'We've got a special surprise for you. Do you want to say how old you are?' The TV star replied: 'I'm 54', as Ranvir gasped in shock and said: 'Yeah but look a his face? 54!' Andi smugly gestured at his youthful face and jokingly said: 'I know, I know' But the birthday surprises didn't stop there, as Andi then made another stop at Lorraine, which was being hosted by Christine Lampard (stock photo) While Cheryl Baker , Mike Nolan and Jay Aston danced along, causing Christine to say: 'Look you've got Bucks Fizz singing to you!' But the birthday surprises didn't stop there, as Andi then made another stop at Lorraine, which was being hosted by Christine Lampard. Joining her in the studio, Andi prepared to do his competition segment before Christine interviewed The Fizz, before she paused the show to wish him a happy birthday. Playing birthday music, she showed that a camera operator had donned a party hat and blew a party popper in celebration. While Cheryl Baker, Mike Nolan and Jay Aston danced along, causing Christine to say: 'Look you've got Bucks Fizz singing to you!' Referencing their iconic Eurovision performance, Andi immediately quipped: 'When do the skirts come off? Is that in this routine? I'll stay for that!' Christine then brought out a gift bag for Andi, telling him: 'I've got you a little gift. It is to be opened live on the telly. We know you love the gym...' Andi pulled out a tank top emblazoned with the Lorraine logo and burst into laughter as he held it up. He said: 'It's a Lorraine vest! So the next time I'm on the beach I will wear it,' as Christine agreed: 'Next time you do a competition from somewhere fancy'. Andi has previously shocked TV viewers when he's shown his impressively muscular physique in the past (pictured in 2017 with Charlotte Hawkins) Last year, he appeared on Saturday Night Takeaway from Florida , where he sported a sleeveless vest that displayed his bulging biceps Fans rushed to social media at the time to voice their amazement, with one quipping he looked 'ready to fight Tyson Fury ' Andi teased: 'I think you'll find the Maldives is already in the diary,' as Christine urged: 'Get the guns out!' Andi has previously shocked TV viewers when he's shown his impressively muscular physique in the past. Last year, he appeared on Saturday Night Takeaway from Florida, where he sported a sleeveless vest that displayed his bulging biceps. Fans rushed to social media at the time to voice their amazement, with one quipping he looked 'ready to fight Tyson Fury'. Others echoed: 'Oh my Andi Peters went BUFF; When did Andi Peters get so buff?; Sorry, how jacked is Andi Peters?' 'Blimey look at the guns on Andi Peters; Andi Peters is absolutely stacked; How long has Andy Peter's had massive guns?' The presenter cut his teeth in children's TV, beginning with an appearance in the BBC's iconic Broom Cupboard in 1989. He would go on to enjoy a successful career throughout the 1990s and 2000s, with mainstream presenting roles on Saturday morning kids show Live & Kicking, Top of the Pops and Channel 4 reality show Shipwrecked. Andi also took part in Celebrity MasterChef in 2008 and the first series of Dancing On Ice on ITV, going on to present the fan show Dancing On Ice Extra with fellow former contestant Andrea McLean. He would go on to enjoy a successful career throughout the 1990s and 2000s, with mainstream presenting roles on Saturday morning kids show Live & Kicking (pictured with Emma Forbes, John Barrowman) Top of the Pops and Channel 4 reality show Shipwrecked A Tracy Beaker star looks completely unrecognisable 22 years on from her BBC debut in the fan-favourite series. Montanna Thompson, now 35, played Justine Littlewood in the Tracy Beaker series on and off since she first appeared in 2002. The actress recently launched a TikTok page and it's left fans completely reminiscing over her BBC days. Montanna was the arch enemy of Dani Harmer's character Tracy Beaker and often found themselves clashing inside their children's home, dubbed the 'Dumping Ground'. Her character always wore her long brunette tresses swept back in a ponytail with huge gold hoop earrings and wore chunky sunglasses. A Tracy Beaker star looks completely unrecognisable 22 years on from her BBC debut in the fan-favourite series Yet in her TikTok videos, the mother-of-two displayed her youthful looks and opted for a similar up do. In a recent clip, Montana said: 'Hi everyone, as most of my followers will know I haven't been online for quite a few years now. 'But I'm back and I hope everyone is well and I wanted to say hello. I've got a new TikTok so if you want to follow me, you're more than welcome.' She captioned the post: 'Thanks so much for the messages and support everyone love you all.' Fans in awe of Montanna's return to social media commented: 'i know justine littlewood when i see her OMG', 'A true millennial icon', 'No way THEE QUEEN JUSTINE LITTLEWOOD has arrived', 'NO WAYY JUSTINE LITTLEWOOD you were my childhood', Montanna Thompson, now 35, played Justine Littlewood in the Tracy Beaker series on and off since she first appeared in 2002 Montanna was the arch enemy of Dani Harmer's character Tracy Beaker and often found themselves clashing inside their children's home, dubbed the 'Dumping Ground' The actress recently launched a TikTok page and it's left fans completely reminiscing over her BBC days Fans in awe of Montanna's return to social media commented: 'i know justine littlewood when i see her OMG' Since her young acting career, Montanna has since starred on The Last Detective, Sugar Rush, Doctors, Casualty and the Trials Of Jimmy Rose 'Girl!!!!! Basically You was the Beyonce of my childhood!!!!! Welcome to my fyp', 'justine littlewood and her double pony is the one true millennial mother'. Since her young acting career, Montanna has since starred on The Last Detective, Sugar Rush, Doctors, Casualty and the Trials Of Jimmy Rose. Giovanni Pernice stepped out with friends on Monday as his former BBC employers prepare to release the findings of a probe into allegations of misconduct on the set of Strictly Come Dancing. The Italian ballroom specialist lost his place on the beleaguered show after former celebrity contestant Amanda Abbington accused him of 'bullying and abusive' behaviour while they were partnered together. Abbington, 50, has since instructed London law firm Carter Ruck to represent her against the BBC, who are finalising an investigation into claims made by the actress. Venturing out on Monday, Pernice, 33, was seen checking his phone during an al fresco lunch date with two friends outside a London restaurant. The Sicilian dancer, who is teaching dance classes following his Strictly dismissal, looked relaxed in a black T-shirt and joggers as he smoked a cigarette. Giovanni Pernice stepped out with friends on Monday as the BBC prepare to release the findings of a probe into allegations of misconduct on the set of Strictly Come Dancing Pernice was seen checking his phone during an al fresco lunch date with two friends outside a London restaurant Pernice faces multiple accusations of unsavoury behaviour while working as a professional dancer on the show, with former celebrity partner Laura Whitmore recently admitting she too has spoken to the BBC. Although she hasn't made a formal complaint, Whitmore, 39, hopes to get 'just an acceptance' of what happened to her in the rehearsals room. The former Love Island presenter admitted she talked to six former Strictly stars about their time on the show and took their information to the BBC. In an Instagram post, she wrote: 'I was trying not to comment on recent press speculation until the BBC review is complete but feel there is a lot of misinformation in the press and I want to help and show support by setting the record straight. 'I was asked to speak to the BBC along with six people that I know of (who deserve anonymity as they don't want to be dragged through the press), about inappropriate behaviour they experienced similar to mine with the same individual. 'I initially raised concerns back in 2016. I thought my experience was specific to me but I've since learned I was wrong. 'The aim of this is to show a pattern of behaviour that I believe needs to stop. My evidence is to support other people's experience. It's a shame it takes this for someone to be heard. 'I am not looking for anything just an acceptance that what happened to me in the rehearsal rooms during my time on BBC Strictly was wrong and that it won't happen to anyone else again. The Sicilian dancer chatted to friends while occupying an outdoor table on Monday afternoon Pernice, who is teaching dance classes following his Strictly dismissal, looked relaxed in a black T-shirt and joggers as he smoked a cigarette Pernice faces multiple accusations of unsavoury behaviour while working as a professional dancer on the show 'Because I have not made an official complaint, and am providing evidence of my experience to support the investigation, not all the communication will be passed on to all parties involved. 'Misinformation is being put into the press so I want to set the record straight. Victim blaming must stop or we will never get better. 'I've tried to speak up in the correct way. I know the BBC and all outlets continue to do their best to be better, but for that to happen we must speak up.' Abbington - his last celebrity partner - quit Strictly last year due to 'personal reasons' before reports she had demanded footage of their rehearsals after the experience in the competition left her with PTSD. Sources then claimed the actress, Ranvir Singh and Whitmore had an 'emotional summit' where they 'compared notes' about their time working with Pernice on the show - prompting the BBC to launch a probe into his conduct. Pernice and his two friends idled on the pavement as they finished their cigarettes Strictly was plunged into further crisis on Wednesday after Abbington claimed that Pernice was trying to block the release of up to 50 hours of 'toxic' footage' The Italian dancer remains hopeful that the findings of a BBC probe will clear his name Should Pernice be cleared of any wrongdoing, he may well win back his place on Strictly In 2018, Whitmore claimed she didn't enjoy her time on Strictly, leaving the competition in week seven feeling 'broken' and admitting she 'cried every day'. The Irish presenter wasn't happy about being paired with her close friend Georgia May Foote's ex not long after the pair had split - and felt 'extremely uncomfortable' dancing with him. Writing for The Huffington Post at the time, she said: 'I love dancing I topped the leaderboard twice but I was thrown into the middle of a break-up that had nothing to do with me. Once again, I was a "rumoured love interest". 'I was placed with a dance partner I was extremely uncomfortable with and in the end I felt broken, I cried every day. And I really was broken, both mentally and physically, by the end.' Strictly was plunged into further crisis on Wednesday after Abbington claimed that Pernice was trying to block the release of up to 50 hours of 'toxic' footage'. The Italian ballroom specialist lost his place on the beleaguered show after former celebrity contestant Amanda Abbington accused him of 'bullying and abusive' behaviour Former celebrity partner Laura Whitmore recently admitted that she too has spoken to the BBC The former Love Island presenter admitted she talked to six former Strictly stars about their time on the show and took their information to the BBC In an emotionally charged interview, the actress compared the dance show to 'the trenches' telling Channel 4 News that BBC producers had been left 'horrified' by clips that also allegedly exhibited 'humiliating behaviour of a sexual nature'. 'There's 50 hours of footage that's being blocked. You know, 50 hours is a lot of footage, and a lot of time spent in a room that was toxic,' she told presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy. 'It's out there. There is evidence out there of what happened in that room and I'm not the one who's blocking it. I've said anyone can watch it, but he (Giovanni) doesn't want anyone to see it, which is quite telling if he's got nothing to hide.' A spokesperson for Giovanni told MailOnline: 'We would urge people to wait for the review's conclusion and not to pay heed to these very serious and defamatory allegations that have no evidence in support of them.' Rob Lowe has joked it was a 'nightmare' working with his son, John Owen, on their Netflix series Unstable because he thought his child was going to 'cure cancer,' not become an actor. During an appearance on The View on Monday, the 60-year-old Hollywood star joked that his son 'could have worked at Jamba Juice,' instead of going to Stanford University, where he studied study science technology. Referring to their television series Unstable, which helped the father-son duo bond over their sobriety, Ana Navarro asked Rob: 'You've been in the industry since you were 12. So tell me, when you were coming up, was being onscreen with your son like this huge dream of yours?' Rob immediately replied: 'No, dream? It was a nightmare! Dream? You have to understand, I sent this kid to Stanford, I wrote the check! I mean, if he wanted to be an actor, he could have worked at Jamba Juice!' as John Owen grinned awkwardly beside him. However, Rob didn't stop there and continued: 'I mean, he could have saved me a lot of money! I thought he was going to come out of there and like cure cancer and work in a lab! No, no!' as the panel laughed. Rob Lowe has joked it was a 'nightmare' working with his son John Owen on their Netflix series Unstable Ana then asked John Owen what he studied, and when he confirmed science technology, she turned to Rob and said: 'Okay, you've got a point!' Sara Haines then joked: 'This is what a Stanford degree gets you!' as John Owen pointed out: 'But that is why... part of the reason why our show takes place in a biotech lab, so it did pay off in some regard.' Sara fired back: 'So at least you pretend to be one on TV!' as John Owen replied bluntly: 'Exactly.' Elsewhere in the interview, the 28-year-old opened up about the inspiration behind their TV series Unstable, which returns to Netflix for a second season on August 1, and explained: 'He's a very good sport about me giving him a hard time, which is a way that I think we show love to each other in the Lowe family. 'And I was doing it on social media at one point and people seemed to get a kick out of it and so I came to him and said, "Would you let me make fun of him on national television?" and he said, "Yes."' Explaining how the series is 'like therapy,' John Owen continued: 'It is cathartic at times because we get to live out experiences that I've had, except in the show there's resolution written in, and I think there's something deeply cathartic and therapeutic about it for me.' He added that the show was 'very, very realistic,' as his father was 'constantly judging' him on things like his posture. His comments come just days after he and Rob admitted that working on Unstable together helped them bond over their sobriety. Rob claimed he could have saved 'a lot of money' if he hadn't sent John Owen to Stanford University John Owen, 28, confirmed that he studied science technology at Stanford University but had chosen to act instead John Owen said working on the Netflix series Unstable with his famous father had been 'deeply cathartic' During an interview with Extra, John Owen confirmed he was just over seven years sober, and said that staying clean was one of the 'main things' they'd 'connected on as father and son.' John Owen praised Rob for being a role model while he was 'struggling' as he explained it helped to know someone who successfully 'came out on the other side.' The actor also stated that his dad was 'very smart' in not trying to overcorrect his behavior and allowed him to 'make mistakes with boundaries' to keep him safe. When asked by Extra if he would advise other parents to give their children space, Rob clarified that you got to 'give them the boundaries so they don't kill themselves or do anything really, really, really, really stupid.' 'Believe me there were boundaries, but the notion that anybody is going to stop [drinking or doing drugs] because you want them to or because they got arrested or because they lost their job or they lost their girlfriend... it doesn't work,' he said. Rob insisted that the only way for someone to stay sober was making the decision on 'their own.' Previously, John Owen said he was in hospital 'many times' while battling addiction and, even, had a close friend die from a Fentanyl overdose. Meanwhile, Rob entered rehab in 1990, at 25, and has been sober since. Jennifer Aniston was drenched in oil while filming a scene for an upcoming fourth season of The Morning Show. While on set in New York City, the 55-year-old actress appeared convincingly shocked when a climate change protestor threw a bucket of fake oil all over her. Just moments after arriving on set in her pristine look, she was spotted with the black tar-like substance covering her white blouse and khaki pants as well as dripping down her arms. She looked displeased and made a disgruntled face as she continued to film the chaotic scene while portraying fictional TV anchor Alex Levy and live reporting from the make-believe protest. She was seen holding up her phone, which somehow narrowly escaped the splattering, as the black substance soaked into her clothes, stained her purse and covered her shoes. Jennifer Aniston was drenched and covered in oil while filming a scene for an upcoming fourth season of The Morning Show In the midst of all the chaos, background actors portraying police officers swarmed around the crowd to control the riot. After the director yelled 'cut,' Aniston got unserious and appeared to be joking around with the cast and crew. She was pictured pointing a finger and raising her brows while imitating an half-hearted, not-so-stern warning expression. Prior to her outfit getting ruined, the TV star looked business-chic in a white, sleeveless button-down blouse tucked into a pair of khaki-colored, flared dress pants. She carried a woven, orange leather crossbody purse and wore a dainty gold watch. The blonde beauty left her straight hair down and looked radiant in a light, dewy makeup look. In the drama series, which was an instant hit after its first season debuted in 2019, Aniston and Witherspoon star alongside Steve Carrell, Billy Crudup and Mark Duplass. As production is still underway for the fourth season of Aniston and Reese Witherspoon's hit Apple TV+ series, a premiere date has not yet been announced. While on set in New York City, the 55-year-old actress appeared convincingly shocked when a climate change protestor threw a bucket of fake oil all over her Just moments after arriving on set in her pristine look, she was spotted with the black tar-like substance covering her white blouse and khaki pants as well as dripping down her arms She was seen holding up her phone, which somehow narrowly escaped the splattering, as the black substance soaked into her clothes, stained her purse and covered her shoes For the chaotic scene, perhaps Aniston channeled the rage she felt last week when she criticized Sen. J.D. Vance's viral comments about 'childless cat ladies' running the country. Last Wednesday, the Friends star shared a post on her Instagram Story firing back at Vance and vowed to 'pray' for his daughter. Aniston has been candid about her struggles with fertility and trying to have a child over the years. Atop a clip of Donald Trump's vice presidential candidate speaking with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, she wrote: 'I truly can't believe that this is coming from a potential VP of the United States. 'All I can say is... Mr. Vance, I pray that your daughter is fortunate enough to bear children of her own one day,' she penned. 'I hope she will not need to turn to IVF as a second option. Because you are trying to take that away from her, too.' Vance made the derogatory comments in a 2021 interview, which went viral after a clip resurfaced recently. She looked displeased and made a disgruntled face as she continued to film the chaotic scene while portraying fictional TV anchor Alex Levy and live reporting from the make-believe protest After the director yelled 'cut,' Aniston got unserious and appeared to be joking around with the cast and crew. She was pictured pointing a finger and raising her brows while imitating an half-hearted, not-so-stern warning expression In the interview, he questioned Vice President Harris' leadership because she did not have biological children. During Vance's bid for the Senate in Ohio at the time, he said in a Fox News interview that 'we are effectively run in this country via the Democrats,' and referred to them as 'a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable, too.' He said that included Harris, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat. Vance said to Carlson in the interview: 'It's just a basic fact you look at Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, AOC the entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children. And how does it make any sense that we've turned our country over to people who don't really have a direct stake in it?' A former RuPauls Drag Race winner has slammed 'hypocrites' leading backlash against a depiction of the Last Summer at the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. Friday's showpiece was branded 'blasphemous' for a banquet scene where an actor playing Greek god Dionysus took centre stage on a table with drag queens, which has been interpreted to resemble Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper painting. Some religious groups condemned the ceremony, including the Catholic Church in France who said it included 'scenes of derision and mockery of Christianity'. Now, Hugo Bardin, 33, who won the French version of Drag Race, performs as drag queen Paloma and took part in the performance, criticized the 'absurd and inappropriate' reaction which he attributed to homophobia. He told Reuters : 'What I find absurd and inappropriate in this controversy is that it's hypocritical... these are paintings that have been reproduced thousands of times A former RuPaul s Drag Race winner has slammed 'hypocrites' leading backlash against a depiction of the Last Summer at the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony Now, Hugo Bardin, who won the French version of Drag Race, performs as drag queen Paloma (pictured) and took part in the performance, criticized the 'absurd and inappropriate' reaction which he attributed to homophobia 'I think the Last Supper is the most reproduced painting in art... this image has been used and reused in a religious context, in a non-religious context. 'What bothers people isn't that we're reproducing this painting - painted by a homosexual by the way what bothers people is that queer people are reproducing it.' Adding that he comes from a Catholic family - he said: 'The Christians around me aren't shocked, the Christians who are shocked are the Christians who are homophobic, transphobic, drag-phobic, queer-phobic, who don't want us to be associated with art, who don't want us to be associated with France, with religion 'They want to make us invisible so it's a violent reaction, it's a reaction which is not only reactionary, it's medieval. 'I'm getting messages and I feel like it's the year 1400 and I'm going to be tortured.' This comes after Paris 2024 organizer Anne Descamps apologized for any offence caused by religious depictions during the opening ceremony. In a press conference on Sunday, Descamps apologised for any offence caused and insisted that the ceremony intended to 'celebrate community tolerance'. 'Clearly there was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group,' she said. On the contrary, I think Thomas Jolly did try to intend to celebrate community tolerance. We believe this ambition was achieved, if people have taken any offence, we of course are really sorry.' A singing performer painted blue depicted the Greek god Dionysus during Friday's ceremony Viewers took to X to lambast the parody of a religious scene He said: 'What bothers people isn't that we're reproducing this painting - painted by a homosexual by the way what bothers people is that queer people are reproducing it' This comes after Paris 2024 organizer Anne Descamps apologized for any offence caused by religious depictions during the opening ceremony Reverend Benjamin Cremer shared a post saying that the scene in the opening ceremony was referencing a different painting and not the Last Supper The International Olympic Committee later said in a statement: 'The IOC has taken note of and welcomes the clarification given by the Paris 2024 Organising Committee regarding the Opening Ceremony. 'In the daily press briefing, the Organising Committee said that there was never any intention to show disrespect towards any religious group or belief. 'They reiterated that their intention with the Opening Ceremony was always to celebrate community and tolerance. The Organising Committee also said that if anyone was offended by certain scenes, this was completely unintentional and they were sorry.' Sunday's apology came after thousands of social media users threatened to boycott the Paris Games because of the opening ceremony. Enraged viewers took to X (formely Twitter) where '#boycottOlympics' and '#boycottParis2024' were seen trending over the course of the following day. The appearance of a 'naked blue man' among a scene likened to the Last Supper angered many watching, especially Christians. One wrote: 'What a disgraceful opening to the 2024 Olympics #BoycottOlympics.' Another declared they 'didn't even care about the Olympics' but were now '100 per cent boycotting'. Their hotly anticipated return comes one year after they bid farewell It was announced that the actor would be returning to Port Charles in September General Hospital viewers are feeling 'so many emotions' after it was announced Emma Samms would be returning to the show as fan-favorite character Holly Sutton-Scorpio. After one year off screen, the network announced the 63-year-old actress would be back in Port Charles in early September. Taking to social media to share the exciting development, Emma simply wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Monday: 'Breaking news!' alongside a story from Variety, who first reported the news. And it wasn't long before General Hospital fans expressed their delight at the casting bombshell and flocked to social media to voice their anticipation. One wrote: 'So many emotions. Such wonderful news.' General Hospital has confirmed that Emma Samms will be reprising her character Holly The beloved character has been off-screen since last April, but will be back again in September Another said: 'What a fantastic way to start the week. This is the best news. Bring on September!' Echoing a similar sentiment, a third said: 'Yes!! So happy to see this beautiful face around PC (Port Charles) again.' 'Looking forward to your return!!!' a fourth continued. 'Can't wait to see what's in store!!!' A fifth posted: 'The best of the best is returning The best bday gift. Thank you lol. Can't wait to see Holly back with her peeps.' British actress Emma first played Holly on General Hospital from 1982 to 1985, before returning for various stints across the last four decades, racking up more than 300 episodes. She last appeared on the soap in April 2023 in a major storyline saw her along with Anna Devane (Finola Hughes) and Scott Baldwin (Kin Shriner) band together in Greenland to prevent Victor Cassadine (Charles Shaughnessy) from unleashing biological warfare to wipe out 80 per cent of the world population. After saving the day, she tried and failed to rekindle her relationship with Robert, before she finally bid farewell and swapped Port Charles for Australia where she planned to help Ethan (Nathan Parsons) settle his debts. Last year, Emma told Soap Opera Digest that she had been conflicted over whether or not to return to General Hospital. General Hospital fans expressed their delight by the casting news and flocked to social media Emma has starred in General Hospital for more than four decades (pictured in 1982) The cast of the ABC soap celebrated its 30th anniversary in 1993 She said: 'I think that it was almost too good last time. It was so great and so well-received in as much as it was so perfect and so well-received that maybe I should have even just stepped away then, permanently, and left on such a high.' Speaking about her most recent comeback, she continued: 'It is not so much about my character, it's about the story and actually, that's a bit of a relief, in a way. 'Even though my character is important to the story, it's not my character's story.' News of Emma's return to General Hospital comes just one month after the network announced Jonathan Jackson would also be reprising his role, Lucky Spencer. Sharing the bombshell in a video posted to his Instagram, he said: 'Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know that I will be returning to General Hospital this summer. 'Super excited and can't wait to dig in and see what's going on in Port Charles. Excited to see Genie Francis, obviously, and so many others.' Erica Ash, who starred in the Scary Movie franchise, has died aged 46 following a long battle with cancer, her family has confirmed. The American actress was also known for appearing on the Fox sketch comedy show Mad TV and the BET reality spoof Real Husbands of Hollywood. 'Erica was an amazing woman and talented entertainer who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humor and genuine zest for life,' her family said in a statement, obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. 'Her memory will live eternally in our hearts.' She passed away on Sunday in Los Angeles, her publicist Elizabeth Much told the outlet. She is survived by her mother Diann and her sister Adrienne. Erica Ash dead at 46: Scary Movie actress and Mad TV star passes away after a long battle with cancer Ash was known for her role in the Starz comedy drama Survivor's Remorse and Real Husbands of Hollywood. She portrayed Kevin Hart's love interest and ex-wife Bridgette Hart on the reality spoof, which ran for five seasons from 2013 to 2016. While starring in the parody series, she also appeared in all four seasons of Survivor's Remorse. She also played a guest role in three episodes of NBC's Shades of Blue's first season, which starred Jennifer Lopez and Ray Liotta. The Florida native was known for appearing on sketch comedy show The Big Gay Sketch Show, which was produced by Rosie O'Donnell, and for her contribution on two seasons of Mad TV. She starred in Netflix's supernatural horror comedy film We Have a Ghost and also appeared on the big screen for the 2013 release of Scary Movie V. She also appeared in the 2018 basketball comedy Uncle Drew alongside Kyrie Irving and Shaquille O'Neal. One of her recent projects in her decorated resume included 2023 Western comedy movie The Outlaw Johnny Black. The American actress was also known for appearing on the Fox sketch comedy show Mad TV and the BET reality spoof Real Husbands of Hollywood; seen in May 2023 She is known for her big screen role in the 2013 release of Scary Movie V She also starred in Netflix's supernatural horror comedy film We Have a Ghost She made appearances in films including Kristy (2014), Jean of the Joneses (2016), The Big Bend (2021), Violet (2021), Singleholic and (2022) and Unthinkably Good Things (2022). In recent years, Ash guest-starred on series such as Cold Case, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Family Reunion and NBC's Extended Family. She had voice roles on Bless the Harts and Aquaman: King of Atlantis. Before her big break in entertainment, the Florida-born and Atlanta-raised artist was studying medicine at Emory University and 'fell into a background singing gig' during a trip she took to Japan. It was there she did some modeling and 'one thing led to another,' she told the Los Angeles Times in 2017. In addition to her many talents, the multi-hyphenated artist also starred on Broadway in 2011 for the jukebox musical Baby It's You! Following the news of her passing, Jamie Foxx was one of many stars leading the tributes in honor of the comedian. 'Noooo way. Cannot believe this one,' he wrote on Instagram. 'Such an incredible talent. Gone way too soon. RIP Erica.' The Florida native was known for appearing on sketch comedy show The Big Gay Sketch Show, which was produced by Rosie O'Donnell , and for her contribution on two seasons of Mad TV. One of her recent projects in her decorated resume included 2023 Western comedy movie The Outlaw Johnny Black; seen in November 2021 In recent years, Ash guest-starred on series such as Cold Case, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Family Reunion and NBC's Extended Family; seen in February 2020 For his post, he reshared a photo from BET's tribute remembering the star and honoring her legacy. 'Today, #BETRemembers actress and comedienne Erica Ash who has passed away at the age of 46,' the media powerhouse's post read. 'Known for being equal parts witty and funny, Erica starred in BET favorites such as legal drama "In Contempt" and reality spoof "Real Husbands of Hollywood". We send our deepest condolences and love to her parents, siblings, friends, and family. Fly high Queen.' Fellow comedian Loni Love also paid homage to Ash, praising her friend for her talent and passion for her art. 'I am sad to confirm my friend and fellow actress Erica Ash's passing,' she wrote on Instagram alongside a photo of them on the set of the former talk show The Real, which she co-hosted for eight seasons. 'Erica was talented and hilarious whether it was the show Survivor's Remorse or Madtv she would put her all into her work,' she continued. 'She would always just be there, now she's gone. My sincere condolences to her family and fans.' Michael Jai White shared a photo of them in costume while filming The Outlaw Johnny Black and called Ash 'one of the strongest people I've known' as he recalled watching her continue to put her all into her art even while battling cancer. Before her big break in entertainment, the Florida-born and Atlanta-raised artist was studying medicine at Emory University and 'fell into a background singing gig' during a trip she took to Japan. It was there she did some modeling and 'one thing led to another,' she told the Los Angeles Times in 2017; seen in Beverly Hills on January 5 Following the news of her passing, Jamie Foxx was one of many stars leading the tributes in honor of the comedian 'We all lost one of the most multitalented and beautiful human beings I've ever known,' he began in a lengthy tribute honoring his co-star. 'I considered her the potential Carol Burnett of her generation who completely stole our movie with her virtuoso performance of humor, charm, beauty, wit, physicality, sexiness, vulnerability, naivety and wisdom ALL WITHIN THE SAME CHARACTER! Anyone who saw the movie can attest to that,' he wrote. 'Aside from that, she was one of the strongest people I've known, spending nearly every lunch break lying on her dressing room floor in pain from stage 4 cancer during production and keeping it a secret from nearly everyone. 'She was a joy who put others first! I'm tremendously sad she left us and sad we won't get to do the things we had in development, but I feel tremendously blessed to have had her in my life and got to bear witness to her brilliance, love and friendship! Rest in peace Erica!' Tisha Campbell-Martin also shared a heartfelt tribute as she shared a sweet selfie of them together and Ash flashing her bright smile. The actress called Ash her 'little sister' as well as the 'light' in her and many other people's lives. Michael Jai White, who starred alongside Ash in The Outlaw Johnny Black, shared a photo of them in costume while filming the movie. 'We all lost one of the most multitalented and beautiful human beings I've ever known,' he began in a lengthy tribute honoring his 'brilliant' co-star Tisha Campbell-Martin also shared a heartfelt tribute while mourning her dear friend 'I had to delete my earlier post because my heart aches so much. God I will miss you. With all the ugliness that this world and sometimes our industry brings there are few among us that are the LIGHT and you are that for so many. You are talented, you are funny, you are brilliant and you are flying with much earned wings. My God Erica this is a rough one man!!!! I love you my little sister RIP' Comedian and actor Mike Epps, who starred alongside Ash in Survivor's Remorse, lauded his former castmate for her 'full of life' personality and inspiring talent in his tribute. 'RIP ERICA. Gone too soon. She was such a great person to work with, full of life and funny and talent,' he wrote in the caption alongside a snap of them on the set of the show. 'You left a great mark on earth.' In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ash's name to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation or other breast cancer charities. A court hearing in Shiloh Jolie-Pitt's efforts to drop Pitt from her legal last name has been delayed due to a clerical error, according to her attorney. The latest development comes after about two months after Shiloh - whose parents are A-listers Angelina Jolie, 49, and Brad Pitt, 60 - expressed her intent to drop Pitt from her name after turning 18 on May 27. Peter Levine, who is serving as legal representation for Jolie-Pitt in the matter, told People in a statement Monday, 'Unfortunately, the court was unable to complete the background check ahead of today's hearing, so the hearing was rescheduled for August 19.' Levine explained the logistics of the process, and why Monday's hearing in Los Angeles Superior Court had been pushed back. 'Everyone undergoing a name-change request needs to have a background check conducted by the court clerk, and because of clerical error, Shiloh's hearing has been continued to a new date,' Levine told the outlet. A court hearing in Shiloh Jolie-Pitt's efforts to drop Pitt from her legal last name has been delayed due to a clerical error, according to her attorney. Shiloh, 18, pictured in London in 2021 Jolie and Pitt - who separated in 2016 and have been finalizing the terms of their divorce in the eight years since - are also parents to children Maddox, 22, Zahara, 19, Pax, 20, Knox, 15, and Vivienne, 15. In June, an insider close to Pitt told People that the Oscar-winning actor was 'aware and upset that Shiloh dropped his last name.' The insider added, 'The reminders that he's lost his children, is of course not easy for Brad. He loves his children and misses them. It's very sad.' Shiloh earlier this month published a statement in the Los Angeles Times to declare her intent to change her legal name from Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt to Shiloh Nouvel Jolie, in accordance with state law, TMZ reported. Prior to a judge approving a name change petition, a legal form must have been published in a newspaper a month ahead, according to People. An insider in June told Dailymail.com that Shiloh hired her own lawyer and paid for it herself, so Angie doesnt know and cant speak for it. But, if youre asking if this is connected to the abuse history or the violation of Shilohs victims rights, yes, thats part of it. Jolie said that Pitt had behaved physically abusive toward her - shaking and pushing her - during a private jet flight in 2016, per an FBI report on the altercation that was published in 2022. Jolie told authorities with the FBI that Pitt had said to their children that she had been 'f***ing up this family,' and hit the airplane's ceiling multiple times. Jolie said to officials that Pitt had poured alcohol on a blanket she was under her children with in the 2016 incident. Pitt, 60, was pictured at The Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, California in February Jolie, 49, was seen at the Tony Awards at NYC's Lincoln Center in June Pitt and Jolie's high-profile relationship began in the wake of his 2005 divorce from ex-wife Jennifer Aniston, 55. Pitt and Jolie did not get legally married for years, as they welcomed multiple kids, until getting engaged in 2012 and married in 2014. Jolie - whose films include Maleficent, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and Girl, Interrupted - filed for divorce in 2016 and both she and Pitt had been declared legally single three years later. Pitt, the star of films including Fight Club, Moneyball and Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood, has been romantically-linked to jewelry designer Ines de Ramon since 2022. Nicole Kidman hit the red carpet with lookalike daughter Sunday Rose Urban at an OMEGA event in Paris on Monday evening. The Aussie actress, 57, teased a glimpse of her toned midriff in a chic white co-ord which featured a crop trop, high-waisted skirt and gold detailing. Nicole, who also shares 13-year-old daughter Faith Margaret with husband Keith urban, completed the look with Charles & Keith slingbacks complete with eye catching red rose heel. Meanwhile Sunday Rose, 16, opted for a stylish grey suit with waist coat and wide-legged trousers. Mother and daughter appeared in high spirits as they posed on the red carpet and shared a giggle. Nicole Kidman, 57, hit the red carpet with lookalike daughter Sunday Rose Urban, 16, at an OMEGA event in Paris on Monday evening. The Aussie actress teased a glimpse of her toned midriff in a chic white co-ord which featured a crop trop, high-waisted skirt and gold detailing Mother and daughter appeared in high spirits as they posed on the red carpet and shared a giggle The family are in the city of lights for the Olympics and were spotted watching 14-year-old Aussie skateboarder Chloe Covell compete. Nicole also shares adopted son Connor, 29, and daughter Isabella, 32, with ex husband Tom Cruise. However her hopes of mending her estranged relationship with her son appear to be shattered. According to New Idea, the actress now fears she has lost him to Scientology for good and any chance of reconciliation the two seems unlikely. The heartbreaking revelation comes after Connor recently unveiled a new tattoo that signifies his unwavering commitment to the controversial religion. 'Nicole's ache for her son is very real and extremely painful,' a source told New Idea. 'But seeing Connor double down on his devotion to Scientology with a permanent inking on his body will be hard for her to take.' The tattoo in question, which reads '1938' and is inked on Connor's arm, is believed to reference the first mention of Scientology by its founder, L. Ron Hubbard. Nicole, who also shares 13-year-old daughter Faith Margaret with husband Keith urban , completed the look with CHARLES & KEITH slingbacks complete with eye catching red rose heel The Oscar winner wore her blonde tresses loose She accentuated her age defying features with a light dusting of make-up Nicole posed up a storm ahead of the bash Nicole's choice of Charles & Keith's sling-backs caught the eye with their quirky heels The family are in the city of lights for the Olympics and were spotted watching 14-year-old Aussie skateboarder Chloe Covell compete Sources allege the new ink signifies Connor as 'some kind of "prince" of Scientology,' signalling his rise within the church's ranks a development that deeply concerns Nicole. Connor and his sister Isabella have remained devoted Scientologists since their parents' highly publicised split in 2001. The siblings have maintained a noticeable distance from their mother, allegedly due to her status as a 'Suppressive Person' within the church. 'Nicole knows Connor and Bella are enveloped in their dad's religion and will always respect that,' the source added. 'She had hoped they might grow out of it once they got older or at least give her the opportunity to explain. However, if Connor is being earmarked for a senior role in the organisation, Nicole knows she has probably lost him forever.' Nicole also shares adopted son Connor, 29, and daughter Isabella, 32, with ex husband Tom Cruise (Pictured in January 1996) According to a New Idea, the actress now fears she has lost him to Scientology for good any chance of reconciliation between mother and son seems increasingly unlikely Tom and Connor have been spotted out on occasion attending sporting events together (Pictured in Tampa, FL in April 2015) Nicole has said in the past she prefers to keep her relationship with her kids private. Tom and Connor have been spotted out on occasion attending sporting events together. Tom shares daughter Suri, 18, with ex-wife Katie Holmes, 45. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Kidman for comment. Giovanni Pernice continued to ignore the recent Strictly Come Dancing drama as he celebrated a string of sold out dance classes on Sunday. It comes after TV presenter Laura Whitmore, who was partnered with Giovanni in the 2016 series, confirmed over the weekend that she has spoken to the BBC about 'inappropriate' behaviour by an individual on the show. Sources have claimed that Laura and Amanda Abbington had an 'emotional summit' earlier this year with fellow Strictly alumna Ranvir Singh, 46, where they 'compared notes' about their time working with Giovanni, 33. The dancer has always denied all of the allegations, claiming to have provided a dossier of evidence to Beeb investigators, and is said to be 'fully confident' that they will find in his favour. Giovanni has continued running classes at Ballando over the past three months alongside Strictly co-stars Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas. He spent Sunday hosting classes for fans and shared pictures of the group, saying: 'Four sold out classes, Four hours of dance fun, that's how to spend a Sunday. Love you all!' Giovanni Pernice continued to ignore the recent Strictly Come Dancing drama as he celebrated a string of sold out dance classes on Sunday It comes after TV presenter Laura Whitmore , who was partnered with Giovanni in the 2016 series, confirmed over the weekend that she has spoken to the BBC about 'inappropriate' behaviour by an individual on the show ITV is said to be ready to swoop in to sign the dancer if he is cleared of the allegations. He quit Strictly in April, after nine years, following the BBC's decision to launch its inquiry. It is said that ITV bosses know how popular Mr Pernice is with viewers and think he would be a huge ratings winner. One programme he is expected to star in is I'm A Celeb later this year, which is on at the same time as Strictly, and could net him in the region of 100,000. Bosses, who are thrilled at the possibility of snatching Mr Pernice away from their rivals, also want to give him other shows and documentaries which would mean he would be one of 'their own'. A source at ITV said: 'As long as those at the top are satisfied that Giovanni isn't a bully and didn't behave inappropriately during Strictly, they will be signing him up. They are very aware of how much Strictly viewers will miss him, he's a true fans' favourite, so they hope he will draw in big audiences. 'Just imagine him on I'm A Celeb, he would be a favourite to win and they know he would be very good value in the jungle. 'He would bring a huge fan base with him. He appeals to people of all ages which is a godsend for any broadcaster.' He spent Sunday hosting classes for fans and shared pictures of the group, saying: 'Four sold out classes, Four hours of dance fun, that's how to spend a Sunday. Love you all!' The dancer has always denied all of the allegations, claiming to have provided a dossier of evidence to Beeb investigators, and is said to be 'fully confident' that they will find in his favour I'm A Celeb and ITV bosses is said to be ready to swoop in to sign the dancer if he is cleared of the allegations The Beeb, meanwhile, has axed his adventure show with Strictly judge Anton du Beke. Mr Pernice has vowed to never go back to Strictly, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year. He may even take legal action against the BBC. A source close to Mr Pernice said: 'Gio is looking forward to getting his career going again. 'His Strictly one may have come to an end but that doesn't mean it's over for him. 'There are some very exciting things in the pipeline. 'He is really popular and there is a huge appetite for him elsewhere. He will never go back to Strictly, too much has happened.' Giovanni is convinced he has presented evidence that proves he is far from the 'cruel, abusive and mean' man the Sherlock star Amanda claims he is. Mr Pernice handed investigators a 28-minute long audio of Ms Abbington and him in conversation which his team proves he was instead hugely supportive. During the clip, she told Mr Pernice that if she was him she 'would have thrown me out of the window by now' in an apparent acknowledgement that she could be difficult. She also admitted she 'self sabotages' and repeatedly referred to how he supported her as she struggled with the show. Ms Abbington even described herself as a 'nightmare' during the time they danced together from August until October last year. Sources then claimed Amanda, Ranvir Singh and Laura had an 'emotional summit' where they 'compared notes' about their time working with Giovanni on the show Fellow Italian dancer Graziano Di Prima was sacked from the programme after he was accused of kicking and spitting at former Love Island star Zara McDermott (pictured together during last year's competition) Sources close to the situation say that Mr Pernice now expects to be cleared of bullying Ms Abbington (pictured) after the three-month investigation The Mail On Sunday also reveals Mr Pernice handed the corporation lengthy screenshots of WhatsApp messages between himself and Ms Abbington where she would gush at how helpful he had been, how much she liked him and also makes apologies to him. Sources close to the situation say that Mr Pernice now expects to be cleared of bullying her after the three-month investigation, with the BBC announcing its findings to both parties on Monday. The Corporation is also expected to release an 'anodyne' statement. The investigation has been a frustrating one for the BBC, particularly as Ms Abbington has spoken out several times in the last week in advance of the end of the probe. Last week she said that there was an incident of a 'humiliating sexual nature' in an interview with Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy, who took part in the same series of Strictly. She also said she received dozens of death and rape threats each day after she complained to the BBC that Mr Pernice had been bullying her. This newspaper can reveal that Mr Pernice's former dance partners were invited in by the BBC to explain their own experiences of working with him. Meanwhile, members of the Strictly crew were also interviewed. It is understood none reported that they had either experienced or witnessed Mr Pernice, 33, behave badly. The scandal unfolded at the turn of the year after Ms Abbington told The Sun that she had suffered from PTSD as a result of appearing on Strictly. She also reportedly asked to see rehearsal footage so she could pass it onto her lawyers. The BBC refused her request. In April, it launched a formal investigation into her claims that Mr Pernice had bullied during their training sessions. Mr Pernice's spokesman said that he was not made aware of the sexual allegations until Channel 4 approached his lawyers at Schillings to offer a right to reply just hours before the interview was aired on Wednesday. He vehemently denies the claims. Previously, Ms Abbington had claimed Mr Pernice stamped on her foot, leaving her with a bruised toe. She has given no other details. Last Sunday she told The Sun: 'I found Giovanni's behaviour unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean. I couldn't sit back and let him do that to other people.' She offered no further details. Last week in an interview with Channel 4 News, a tearful Ms Abbington said an incident of a 'humiliating sexual nature' took place Mr Pernice (pictured with Ms Abbington in rehearsals) handed investigators at the BBC a 28-minute long audio of the pair in conversation which his team believes proves that far from bullying her, he was instead hugely supportive Meanwhile, the fallout at the BBC is said to be 'serious.' Bosses are already under scrutiny over why the investigation took three months, during which time significant damage was done to Strictly, often referred to as the jewel in the Corporation's crown. But insiders have hit back by saying that it was because the inquiry went on for so long that Strictly staff were able to raise professional dancer Graziano Di Prima hitting and kicking his former partner Zara McDermott. Investigators fired him within 48 hours, citing misconduct. Despite the outcome of the inquiry into Mr Pernice being expected tomorrow, sources at the BBC say there could be more to come. During her interview with Mr Guru-Murthy, Ms Abbington said she wanted to be remunerated for loss of earnings following her appearance on the show and the claims she was bullied. But they also face potential action from Mr Pernice, who is unhappy that he was paired with Ms Abbington without them doing any psychological tests on her. Yesterday, a spokesman for Ms Abbington said: 'These details don't alter anything: as Amanda has repeatedly made clear, she did her best to make things work. 'This included being open with Giovanni about her own shortcomings as a dancer and her awareness that this must have been difficult for him. 'For these comments to now be presented as some form of an excuse for the bullying that Amanda experienced is as unacceptable as the behaviour itself.' McDonald's much-anticipated new, bigger burger has already hit selected restaurants as part of a trial. The Big Arch is being lined up as the fast-food giant's first new permanent, worldwide product since Chicken McNuggets in 1983. CEO Chris Kempczinski unveiled details of the Big Arch on Monday. The new burger will feature two patties, melted cheese, 'crispy toppings,' and a 'tangy McDonald's sauce.' 'It's a quintessential McDonald's burger with a twist on our iconic, familiar flavors,' he told analysts as the company revealed its first fall in sales since Covid. The burger includes crispy and sliced fresh onions, three slices of white processed cheese, pickles and lettuce - and a brand new Big Arch sauce. But there is a big catch for Americans - it is yet to go on sale here. McDonald's Big Arch burger has finally been unveiled The Big Arch is being tested in three countries including Canada and Portugal - but not yet America, in a blow to fast food fans in by far McDonald's biggest market.This test will run through the end of next month. It is understood McDonald's will try it in different markets too over the next year before deciding for sure to roll it out globally. Based on feedback, they may tweak the size, recipe and price if needed. But experts said the fact that company bosses were happy to talk about it to analysts on Monday showed they were happy with the initial response. Bosses had already said they think customers want better value - so they are pushing the new larger burger that they promise will offer 'superior value' to anything at rivals. In Canada, a Big Arch meal - with a drink and fries - was $12.59 at one of the selection test locations in Ontario. That is about $9 in the US. Currently, McDonald's most substantial single-patty burger is the Quarter Pounder, which competes roughly with Burger King's Whopper. In December, the company's CEO Chris Kempczinski said the planned bigger burger won't break the bank: 'We think we're going to be able to deliver a great tasting large burger at a superior value to what customers can get anywhere else.' Currently, McDonald's most substantial single-patty burger is the Quarter Pounder, which competes roughly with Burger King's Whopper. Although both are made up of patties that are claimed to weigh four ounces before they are cooked, the Whopper has 670 calories while the McDonald's Quarter Pounder with cheese contains just 520 calories. Fast food restaurants in California have been raising menu prices in recent months after a state-mandated rise in the minimum wage to $20-an-hour for those working in the sector. McDonald's has experimented with bigger burgers before - but by offering larger versions of what it has on offer. In January, the Double Big Mac - which has four beef patties instead of two and extra sauce - returned for a limited time. It cost around $7 and was a hit while on sale for a month. McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski said the burger will break the bank McDonald's is bringing back the Double Big Mac on January 24 - but it could just be for a limited time McDonald's is opening CosMc - a spinoff which focuses more on coffee and drinks than food McDonald's has also started rolling out CosMc - a spinoff which focuses more on coffee and drinks than food and which is said to be Starbucks-inspired. It was so busy that cars lined up for hours when it first opened. The first is in Bolingbrook, Illinois. A further nine are set to launch by the end of 2024, with one located in Dallas-Fort Worth and another in San Antonio. McDonald's new bigger burger is part of its plan to attract customers back. The chain on Monday had reported a surprise fall in sales in the April to June quarter - as customers cut down on trips to the fast food giant. Americans placed fewer orders than a year ago - meaning sales were down by nearly one per cent. Globally, sales fell by a similar amount. The Chicago burger giant introduced a $5 meal deal at US restaurants - either a McChicken or McDouble, four-piece chicken nuggets, fries and a drink - on June 25 as part of its plan to lure back value-conscious customers. That offer was only live for about a week of the financial reporting period - so its effects will be seen in the next quarter. Across the board, chains are reeling from falling customer numbers as Americans fed up with two years of price rises stay away - so are rolling out all these offers. Burger King's $5 Your Way Meal - offering four items like McDonald's - was the first to hit restaurants in June. Wendy's has a $3 breakfast offer and also a four-item $5 meal similar to McDonald's and BK's. Starbucks also made a surprise entry into the value war with a coffee and food breakfast combo from $5. Despite substantial party funds, the BRS now faces an existential crisis, compounded by internal defections and declining support The Bharatiya Rashrta Samithi, formerly the Telangana Rashtra Samithi, sets itself apart from other declining political parties. Led by the ambitious K. Chandra Shankara Rao, or KCR, the party's national expansion has been marked by setbacks, including its failure to retain power in Telangana. This fate is shared by many political parties and their leaders, as most eventually fade away after holding power at a state or national level. The downslide continued as BRS suffered a significant and sudden setback with no Lok Sabha seat in 2024. Despite having around Rs 1,000 crore in party funds, KCR's hopes of national expansion were dashed. Rao renamed his party BRS in 2022, dropping the word Telangana, and KCR opened branches in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Those units are defunct now. This is a stark example of how the political landscape can change instantly. Having lost power in the 2023 Assembly elections to Congress in the wilderness for the past ten years, the BRS is now facing a significant struggle for survival. The BRS has no representation in the Lok Sabha for the first time after the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The party, which dominated Telangana politics for about two decades and ruled the state for almost a decade, has now been voted out of the Lok Sabha in 2024. Just last week, BRS. received a further setback. BRS MLA A. Gandhi defected to the ruling Congress, which reflects the party's decline. The Congress now boasts 75 M.L.A.s, including 65 from Congress, one from C.P.I., and nine former BRS. Members. In 2001, KCR made a historic decision to resign from the Telugu Desam Party (T.D.P.). He believed that creating a separate state was the only way to end the discrimination in the Telangana region, sparking a demand for separation. TRS was formed to achieve separate Telengana, a seemingly impossible regional objective. He was 47 at the time. T.D.P. was the second-largest party in the National Democratic Alliance. In 2004, the TRS. Joined forces with the Congress and secured five Lok Sabha seats. Following this, KCR was appointed the Union Minister for Labour and Employment in the United Progressive Alliance (U.P.A.) government, headed by U.P.A. Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. He continued his struggle inside and outside Parliament. In 2009, he initiated a hunger strike to demand the introduction of the Telangana Bill in Parliament. After a few days, the Centre conceded to his demands. Shortly before the 2014 election, the U.P.A. government announced the formation of Telangana state. The TRS. performed well in the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, winning 11 seats, its highest tally. However, it lost power to the Congress in the 2023 Assembly polls. On December 9, 2022, TRS. was officially renamed BRS., indicating KCR's intention to pursue national ambitions. Now that the BRS. has failed to win even a single Lok Sabha seat in the state and its vote share has dropped to only 16.69%, the party faces a genuine existential crisis. The BRS. lost power last year, with just 35 seats in the Assembly. The BRS chief struggled to keep the party together during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It could not implement plans to field candidates in other states. KCR's attempt to establish a dynastic rule by appointing his son, nephew, and daughter to significant positions has been a point of contention. It was seen as a deviation from the party's founding principles and a sign of increasing autocracy. Secondly, like many dictatorial leaders, Rao failed to develop a second tier of leadership, which is an asset for any political leader except promoting his family. Thirdly, KCR, who rose to power through agitation and protests, steadily withdrew from public spaces. His inaccessibility and his aversion to media have significantly contributed to the disconnect between him and his leaders and workers. Rao surrounded himself with people who lacked substance and only praised him. As a result, he could not see the reality and fell into the trap of his sycophants, who presented false facts. Unlike Chandrababu, who had the backing of the Kamma community, KCR lacks support from any caste group except Velamas, a small group. This political isolation is a significant factor in his decline. Fifthly, there were allegations of corruption. His daughter Kavitha is now in jail for alleged corruption in the Delhi liquor case. Sixthly, instead of concentrating on the state, KCR began dabbling in national politics and went around the Opposition-ruled states with a naked ambition of becoming Prime Minister. But he failed. This wavering resulted in BRS. Unable to form the government in the 2024 polls.Seventhly, he thought he and his party were unbeatable and would continue to rule Telangana indefinitely like many other tinpot dictators. Eighthly, BRS. Faced defections. However, he also induced defections when he was the chief minister. KCR has now joined a group of once-influential leaders such as Sharad Pawar, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Edapadi Palaniswamy, Deve Gowda, Mayawati, Uddhav Thackeray, and others who have previously held power but are now struggling. In politics, it's like playing a game of snakes and ladders. (The author is a popular columnist; views are personal) Punjab's declining GDP reflect the broader issue of uneven development. Addressing these disparities is essential for promoting holistic growth and preventing social distress across states The current state of Indias fiscal federalism is significantly detrimental to the states. The system needs to be reoriented to spur a competitive environment across the country, not just within some individual states. The recent union budget was expected to set a comprehensive five-year economic agenda for the country's wholesome growth. In Budget 2024-25, unique packages were granted to Bihar of Rs 26,000 crore and Rs 15,000 crore to Andhra Pradesh in exchange for political support, resulting in an even wider fiscal imbalance. It's essential to ask why a similar approach has yet to be taken to address the economic growth of other financially distressed states. For example, Punjab, as a landlocked border state facing locational disadvantages, requires a fair platform to compete on an equal footing. Once a prosperous and progressive state, Punjab grapples with a significant problem of unchecked unemployment stemming from distressed farming and an imbalanced industrial base dominated by 99.7% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Punjab accounts for only 5% of industrial units in the country, with a 3.6% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in the industrial sector over the last five fiscal years, ranking 12th. In contrast, the neighbouring state of Haryana has demonstrated higher growth rates at 5.9%.Punjab ranked first in GDP in 1981 and fourth in 2004. In the fiscal year 2023-24, with a GDP of Rs 6.98 lakh crore, the state was ranked 16th. In comparison, the neighbouring state of Haryana's GDP stands at Rs 11.20 lakh crore, ranked 12th. Interestingly, Bihar, once part of the economically challenged states known as 'BIMARU' (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh), is now a fast-growing economy with a growth rate of 10.6% and a GDP of Rs 8.59 crore in FY 2023-24. Allowing lopsided economic development in a sensitive state like Punjab will have serious repercussions. Failing to ensure holistic development will ultimately lead to accusations of inefficiency in managing human resources. Unemployment exacerbates various issues in distressed areas, including mental health, crime, and drug abuse. Substantial evidence links drug abuse and law and order problems directly to unemployment. These issues must be addressed assertively to ensure the overall progress and well-being of Punjab. Economic distress in Punjab has led to unemployment and a significant migration of its human resources to Canada, which has created a breeding ground for radicals and anti-Indian Khalistani extremist activities on Canadian soil; it is a globalised challenge that must be addressed promptly. Secondly, the Pakistan border has been adversely affecting Punjab's economy. This, along with illegal arms supply and drug-related terrorism, has severely impacted Punjab's social fabric and law and order. The central government has not adequately compensated Punjab for its unique challenges compared to other states. The revenue-sharing disparity is a pressing issue causing significant, alarming socio-economic distress in Punjab. The state receives only 51 paise for every rupee it contributes to the Centre's tax pool, compared to states like Bihar, which receive Rs 1.20. This highlights the urgent need for equitable revenue sharing to ensure Punjab's socio-economic well-being. Currently, Punjab's contribution to the country's tax kitty stands at approximately 3%, and it only receives 1.8% of the divisible pool of taxes allocated by the Fifteenth Finance Commission. It is concerning that Punjab only received 1.8% of the Rs 8,16,649 crore distributed by the Centre to the states during 2022-23. However, the large areas and population figures of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar provide them with additional leverage from the central tax pool. Uttar Pradesh received the highest share at 18% (Rs 1,46,525 crore), and Bihar received the second-highest share of 10%. This highlights why Punjab and other states argue they must receive a fair share of funds despite contributing more to the exchequer.During the fiscal year 2022-23, Punjab contributed Rs 32,800 crore to the central taxes fund, which included CGST, income tax, corporation tax, wealth tax, union excise duty, customs, and service tax. However, in return, the state only received Rs 14,756 crore. Punjab has raised the issue with the Sixteenth Finance Commission, which believes it deserves a fair share of central tax. The Finance Commission recommends the distribution of tax revenues between the Centre and States. Despite recommendations to allocate 42% and 41% of net tax revenue to States, their share of gross tax revenue fell to 35% in 2015-16 and 30% by 2023-24. For 2024-25, the Gross Tax Revenue (GTR) is projected to grow at 11.7%, raising concerns about adequacy in meeting state fiscal needs. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act has had significant and varying consequences on fiscal federalism. It has given the Centre more extensive taxation powers, altering the budget landscape and transforming budgetary federalism in the country. While GST has led to revenue growth, it also restricts the financial autonomy of the states.In a recent memorandum submitted to the 16th finance commission chairman, Punjab highlighted the loss on account of GST introduction, indicating that the state would have earned more than Rs 45,000 crore with VAT versus the budgeted GST of Rs 25,750 crore in FY 2024-25. This gap is expected to increase to Rs 95,000 crore with VAT and GST at Rs 47,000 crore by 2030-31. The Way Forward: In the current fiscal federalism, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive and inclusive approach to budgetary prudence, local employment generation, and social harmony, regardless of demographic and political differences. Devolve more fiscal powers to states, enhancing their flexibility in revenue generation, expenditure planning, and borrowing limits. Reforms are necessary to address imbalances in the revenue transfer system. A Finance Act amendment is still pending to establish fairness and accountability in managing the resource imbalances between the Centre and the States, which has led to growing regional tensions. Ultimately, fair, competitive, and effective fiscal federalism is essential to ensure that resources result in improved services and infrastructure for citizens. (The Author is Vice-Chairman of Sonalika ITL Group, Vice-Chairman of the Punjab Economic Policy and Planning Board, Chairman of ASSOCHAM Northern Region Development Council. Views expressed are personal) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lashed out at Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asking him whether it was Nyay (justice) to siphon off money belonging to the tribal Valmiki community. Referring to the Rs 187 crore scam in the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribe Corporation including the illegal transfer of Rs 88 crore, Sitharaman, speaking to reporters at the BJP office here, accused Siddaramaiah of concealing facts and trying to pass the blame on to the central government because bank officials of a nationalised bank were involved. On Siddaramaiahs charge that the union finance minister should be held accountable because banks were involved, Sitharaman said, He can say that because he is used to talking like this Thats so irresponsive. You have your minister resigned. You have your people saying that the money has been siphoned into private accounts. The minister said that action has already been taken as a first step against the conniving bank officials and further action will be taken against them. No protection will be offered to them for sure. She, however, sought to know, A minister had to resign under whose oversight? Attempt to deny, attempt to shift blame, or to say that no scandal has taken place. Its SC/ST money. Whose money was taken away Valmiki communitys. Is there no sense of outrage? They (Congress) talk about Nyay (justice) during election campaign. Is this Nyay for the SC/ST communities? Sitharaman said. During the Lok Sabha election, the Congress had the slogan Ab Hoga Nyay to do justice for downtrodden communities and to enact policies for their upliftment. Stating that the bank is already on the job of taking action against the erring officials, the FM asked Siddaramaiah how the minister involved in the scam and the chief minister who holds finance portfolio did not stop the bank from illegally transferring money. You denied the whole thing, your minister did not even resign. And regarding the money which has gone into the private accounts, you go to the assembly to say its not Rs 180 crore or Rs 140 crore, its only some Rs 80 crore. You are concealing it, sir. This is the outrageous thing that is happening particularly with the SC/ST money, the FM said. Rs 187.33 crore of the Valmiki Corporation kept in different accounts, including Rs 40 crore in the government treasury, is said to have been diverted towards the Union Bank of Indias MG Road branch in the scam. Of the Rs 187.33 crore, Rs 88.63 crore was illegally transferred to at least 217 bank accounts in Telangana including that of 18 firms. Former Karnataka minister B Nagendra, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate, is in judicial custody in connection with the case. The scam came to light after the Accounts Superintendent of Valmiki Corporation Chandrasekharan P died by suicide. In his suicide note, he explained in detail how the money was transferred and what role the corporation and the bank officials had played in the scam. The opposition BJP has accused the ruling Congress of being involved in the scam. It has alleged that the transfer of money could not have happened without the knowledge of Siddaramaiah, who heads the finance ministry. The chief minister has rubbished the allegation and said he had no information about it. After a day-long protest by the mediapersons over the security norms to curb the movement of journalists in the Parliament premises on Monday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met a group of journalists and assured them that all their grievances would be redressed and better facilities would be provided to them to discharge their duties. Print and TV journalists routinely record comments from MPs near the entry and exit points of the Parliament building but on Monday they were restricted to a porta-cabin enclosure made for them. Reporters were removed from Parliaments Makar Dwar where they usually interact with MPs. Makar Dwar is one of the entrances to the new Parliament building. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi raised the issue in the Lok Sabha and requested the Speaker to remove the restrictions imposed on the media within Parliament premises. Sir, I would request you to allow the media, who have been restricted to a cage, to move out, Rahul said in the Lok Sabha. Birla reminded Rahul about the rules of procedures of Parliament and said such issues should be discussed with him in person and not be raised on the floor of the House. Rahul and other Opposition leaders such as Trinamool Congress leader Derek OBrien, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, and Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi met mediapersons in the media enclosure. This is censorship. This is completely unacceptable. We are with you in this fight, OBrien said. A late-night fire incident, in which at least four houses belonging to Kashmiri Pandits were gutted under mysterious circumstances in the Mattan area of Anantnag district on Sunday, has once again sparked a debate and raised serious security concerns among the Kashmir Pandit community living in exile since 1990. The houses stood tall and witnessed over three-decade-long struggle before they were gutted under mysterious circumstances late last night. We received this news early in the morning. The fire incident took place around 2.30 am. We demand a high-level probe into the fire, a close relative of the family living in Jammu told reporters. The multi-floor building was considered heritage site in the area. Most visitors reaching Mattan to fulfil their religious obligations used to pay a visit to the area and soak themselves in the glorious history of their forefathers who had constructed these architecturally rich structures. A prominent Kashmiri Pandit activist Ravinder Padita, associated with the Save Sharda in a post on X commented, Is it sabotage or natural causes? One needs to know. Another Kashmiri Pandit sharing his angst posted a message on X, A Kashmiri pandit house gutted in Mattan, Anantnag, Kashmir last night. The genocide continues for 34 years. Chetan Wanchoo, a political worker associated with the BJP said, I strongly resent the fire incident at Mattan, Anantnag, where more than 4 houses of Kashmiri Pandits were gutted. This incident raises serious concerns. Urgently request LG Manoj Sinha for a high-level enquiry to uncover why these houses were targeted. The main concern is clear: why are Kashmiri Pandit homes and Hindu shrines repeatedly targeted? This is the high time to take decisive action against the miscreants. Meanwhile, Chief Spokesman of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Tanvir Sadiq in a post on X commented, Very sorry to hear that. These are such aesthetic constructions, and architecture like that is slowly disappearing. Its a significant loss. I request the police to investigate the reasons behind this fire incident. Umesh Talashi, also associated with the National Conference said, Heartbroken as four KP houses, including mine, were gutted in a fire in Mattan. Urging Deputy Commissioner Anantnag and Jammu Kashmir Police to take swift action and ensure justice. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday filed a chargesheet against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with its corruption probe into the now scrapped 2021-22 Delhi excise policy, calling him one of the conspirators of the criminal conspiracy. In a related development, the Delhi High Court on Monday reserved its order on the bail plea by Kejriwal in the corruption case. The verdict was reserved by Justice Neena Bansal Krishna after hearing the counsel appearing for the AAP leader as well as the CBI. In the trial court, the CBI filed a chargesheet against Kejriwal alleging the AAP received kickbacks worth `100 crore. The CBI, which first questioned Kejriwal in April 2023, has so far filed five chargesheets in the case against 18 accused including Kejriwals former deputy, Manish Sisodia, and Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha. The CBI said the one filed today, will be its final charge sheet in the case. The development came days after Delhis Rouse Avenue Court extended Kejriwals judicial custody in the case till August 8.The court also extended the judicial custody of AAP leader Manish Sisodia and BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with a money laundering case linked to the liquor policy case. The CBI has named Kejriwal, AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak, non-executive director of Aurobindo Pharma P. Sarath Chandra Reddy, director of Buddy Retail Pvt Ltd Amit Arora, alleged hawala operator Vinod Chauhan, and businessman Ashish Mathur as accused. According to the agency, it has been revealed that Vijay Nair [former media in charge of AAP), a close associate of Kejriwal, was contacting various liquor manufacturers and traders and demanding undue gratification since March 2021, for incorporation of provisions favourable to them in the upcoming Delhi excise policy 2021-22. The CBI also alleged that kickbacks of around Rs 90-100 crore were paid in advance to some politicians of the ruling AAP in Delhi and other public servants by some persons in the liquor business from South India through co-accused Vijay Nair, Abhishek Boinpally and Dinesh Arora to tweak the Excise Policy for 2021-22. The probe agency has alleged that liquor businessman Magunta Sreenivasalu Reddy (now a TDP MP) met Kejriwal on March 16, 2021, at his office in the Delhi Secretariat. Reddy allegedly requested Kejriwal to provide support in his liquor business in the national capital by tweaking the Excise Policy 2021-22 which was then in the making, the CBI said in its charge sheet against K Kavitha. Kejriwal assured support to Reddy and asked him to contact the accused K Kavitha as she was working with his team on the Excise Policy of Delhi, the CBI has alleged. The Delhi chief minister, in turn, allegedly told Reddy to provide funds to his Aam Aadmi Party, the probe agency has alleged. The agency had alleged that these kickbacks are found to have been returned to them subsequently out of the profit margins of wholesalers holding L-1 licenses through different modes, like issuance of excess credit notes, bank transfers, and outstanding amounts left in accounts of the companies controlled, by some conspirators from the South lobby. The CBI had alleged that a cartel was formed between three stakeholders of the said policy -- liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers -- by violating provisions and against the spirit of the policy. Three men suffered bullet injuries after a heated argument broke out between them over some issues in Delhi's Rohini on Monday, officials said. "On Monday, at 8:50 am, multiple PCR calls regarding an incident of firing in Ladpur village were received at Kanjhawala police station. Teams were immediately dispatched to the spot," a senior police officer said. According to the police, they received the names of three people -- Vipin Dabas (26), Rakesh Dabas (50) and Sahil (24) who were under treatment in the hospital. The officer further said that an argument broke out between them during a morning walk on some trivial issue, leading to an incident of firing. "The injured persons are under treatment at the hospital. Two people have been detained for questioning. Legal action is being taken into the matter," said the police officer. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said comprehensive arrangements have been made in coordination with the Centre for Kanwar Yatra and emphasised the need for self-discipline among devotees for its smooth completion. "The Kanwar Yatra during the Shravan month is renowned worldwide. During this period, Shiva devotees from across the country, including North India, engage deeply in the rituals of Mahadev, showing their devotion by performing 'jalabhishek' at Shiva temples," Adityanath said in a statement issued here. He urged the devotees to not only enjoy the 'yatra' but also contribute in making it a success by practising self-discipline and maintaining faith. "No festival, celebration, or 'sadhana' is complete without self-discipline. To ensure a smooth and safe journey, we must be devoted not only internally but also externally. 'Shivo Bhutva Shivam Yajet' (to worship Shiva, first become Shiva)," he said. Although Adityanath did not elaborate, there have been a few stray incidents of violence involving kanwariyas since the yatra began. Adityanath said the central and state governments have coordinated to provide comprehensive arrangements for a safe and orderly Kanwar Yatra. Measures, including enhanced patrolling, cleanliness measures and health camps, have been put in place to prevent any problems, chaos, or playing with faith, the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said. Provisions have been also made for surveillance and flower showers from drones and helicopters as needed, he added. The Kanwar Yatra began on July 22 and ends on August 6. A large number of devotees travel from various places with 'kanwars' carrying holy water from the Ganga to perform 'jalabhishek' of Shivlings during the Hindu calendar month of 'Shravan'. Many believers shun consuming meat during the month they consider holy. 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Chinese FM tells Blinken U.S. adheres to wrong perception of China Xinhua) 10:21, July 29, 2024 VIENTIANE, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday told U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the United States adheres to the wrong perception of China and always mirrors China with its own hegemonic logic. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said that China is not the United States, nor does it want to be. China does not seek hegemony or power politics, and it has the best record on peace and security as a major country in the world. Wang said that the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC adopted a major decision to further comprehensively deepen reform and promote Chinese-style modernization and China will stay true to its original aspiration and stay focused on pursuing happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the nation. China will stay committed to the path of peaceful development and build a community with a shared future for mankind, Wang said, expressing hope that the U.S. side can understand the CPC and China's present and future from this decision. Wang met Blinken here on the sidelines of a series of meetings of foreign ministers of southeastern and eastern Asian countries. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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It is not known why the authorities are being so strict with revealing the identity of the murderer who viciously stabbed the young girls in a rabid attack today? WARNING DISTRESSING CONTENT. Absolutely harrowing recording of a woman witness to the Southport Stabbing. My heart breaks listening to this pic.twitter.com/EVGNtJc3MY Kosher (@KosherCockney) July 29, 2024 To possibly avoid racially motivated and anti-migrant protests, there is a freeze on all information regarding the man who perpetrated this heinous crime. There are many right wing, or far right voices (people labelled as right wing or far right are usually multi-generational English/British people who care about their country) on social media making claims about the identity of the killer, and many hoping the murderer is a Muslim so they can kick off whatever their agenda is, but all that has been released is that the killer is a 17-year-old known to the police who had come from Cardiff. Many migrants are sent to Cardiff and other parts of Wales, so this is a possible theory. Furthermore, if the attacker was a generational British citizen, he would have been named immediately, so the authorities not naming this individual does give some credence to the theory that their race/religion/citizen status is a sensitive matter. The exact same technique is utilised by EU countries, especially Germany, where migrants who commit mass killings are not identified, and the episodes are completely hushed up. Britains anti-terrorist squad is currently giving the police their support, but they have so-far not deemed the attack as terror motivated. If this attack was committed by an asylum seeker who illegally crossed the Channel, then serious questions need to be asked about whom these people are who are allowed into the country? Two children have sadly lost their lives and seven are in a serious critical condition. UPDATE 30 JULY The alleged attacker has been revealed as a 17-year-old who was born in the UK to African migrants from Rwanda. The fact that the individual was born in the UK does not resolve the sensitive racial matter as well as the migratory matter, and this is why the identity of the alleged attacker is being kept under wraps. Recently, a soldier was also nearly murdered by a man of African descent. Sadly, a third child has died from the frenzied stabbing attack, and the other young girls are still in critical condition. Key Points: The U.S. is upgrading its military command in Japan to strengthen coordination with its allys forces. The upgrade will establish a joint force headquarters with expanded missions and operational responsibilities, reflecting a commitment to closer military collaboration. The U.S. and Japan are also discussing extended deterrence and working to strengthen trilateral cooperation with South Korea. US Upgrades Military Command in Japan, Citing China as Greatest Strategic Challenge In a move signaling heightened security concerns in the region, the United States has announced plans to significantly upgrade its military command in Japan, deepening coordination with its allys forces. The announcement, made following security talks in Tokyo between U.S. and Japanese officials, explicitly names China as the greatest strategic challenge facing the Indo-Pacific region. Get alerts: A New Joint Force Headquarters The upgrade, described as the most significant change to U.S. Forces Japan since its creation, will establish a joint force headquarters with expanded missions and operational responsibilities. This new command structure, to be implemented alongside Japans plans for a joint command by March 2025, reflects the growing desire for closer military collaboration between the two nations. Addressing Evolving Security Threats The announcement comes during heightened concerns over Chinas growing military presence and assertive actions in the South and East China Seas. The U.S. and Japan have expressed concerns over Beijings provocative behavior, including joint military exercises with Russia and the rapid expansion of its nuclear weapons arsenal. Extended Deterrence and Nuclear Concerns While the U.S. insists the command upgrade is not directly aimed at China, it is seen as a clear response to the countrys expanding military influence and its perceived threat to regional stability. The talks in Tokyo also addressed extended deterrence, a term signifying the U.S. commitment to use its nuclear forces to deter attacks on its allies. This sensitive subject, particularly in Japan, which has historically advocated for non-proliferation, was discussed in the context of reinforcing regional stability and deterring conflict. Amid growing nuclear threats, particularly from North Korea, Japan has expressed its need for strengthened extended deterrence. The discussions surrounding this issue are seen as a critical step in ensuring the safety and security of the region. Strengthening Trilateral Cooperation The U.S. has also been pushing for deeper cooperation between Japan and South Korea, whose relations have been strained for decades. In a significant development, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea signed an agreement to institutionalize trilateral cooperation through real-time sharing of North Korean missile warning data and joint military exercises. This increased cooperation is seen as a strategic response to the growing threat posed by North Korea, which has repeatedly tested ballistic missiles and continues to pursue its nuclear weapons program. Boosting Defense Industry Collaboration In addition to bolstering military cooperation, the U.S. is also seeking to tap into Japans defense industry to alleviate pressure on American weapons manufacturers, which are facing increased demand due to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The two countries are exploring various collaborative projects, including co-production efforts for missiles and strengthening supply chains. However, a flagship project aimed at increasing the production of Patriot air defense missiles in Japan faces delays due to component shortages. A Shift in the Indo-Pacific The announcement of the upgraded military command in Japan is the latest in a series of moves by the Biden administration to counter Chinas growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. has been vocal about maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, working closely with allies like Japan to counter Chinese assertiveness. The deepening military collaboration between the U.S. and Japan and the strengthened trilateral cooperation with South Korea signals a significant shift in the regional security landscape. This development will likely have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. A new Irish language initiative promoting the use of Irish in everyday life titled Labhair Gaeilge Liom (Speak Irish to Me) was launched in local businesses in Maghera recently. Joe O Dochartaigh, Language Planning Officer in An Carn, said: According to the 2021 Census, 25% of people in Maghera and surrounding areas have a knowledge of Irish, ranging from a few words to fully fluent. We at An Carn would like to give more recognition to that 25% by giving everyone more opportunities to use their Irish. Labhair Gaeilge Liom will do this by promoting the daily use of Irish in local businesses around the town. ABOVE: Eamair the Labhair Gaeilge Liom Ambassador and Gemma Siopa An Carn Manager. As part of Labhair Gaeilge Liom employees in local shops will have the opportunity to wearing a badge identifying them as fluent Irish speakers. Anyone can practice whatever level of Irish they have with them, whether that is a basic few words, intermediate conversation or fluent. "What were seeing now is the very essence of language reinstatement, ordinary people going about their business and being able to do it through Irish. This is what Labhair Gaeilge Liom is all about, celebrating people and their language. As one of only five areas in the whole of Ireland with recognition as an Irish Language Network area, Carntogher is leading the way with many different projects, and the growth in the use of Irish in Maghera has been an undeniable success. ABOVE: Owner Niall Kelly and Paidi the Labhair Gaeilge Liom ambassador for P&N Quality Meats. An Carn is dedicated to the promotion of the Irish language in local communities, and this new initiative makes the promotion of the Irish language visible and the language itself accessible. If you have a local business and are interested in participating please contact An Carn at 028 79549978 or joe.odoherty@ancarn.org. A man with 'an horrendous record for burglaries' has been jailed at Derry Crown Court on a charge of burglary of a commercial premises. John Patrick McGilloway (41) of no fixed abode admitted a charge of burglary on a date between April 7 and April 12 2023. A defence barrister, Stephen Mooney, told the court that his client had a terrible record but there was no domestic burglaries only commercial ones. The court heard that the injured party returned to their hairdressing salon after being closed for Easter. They found the premises ransacked and a door having been forced. Cash of 2,800 was missing as well as equipment valued at 1,500. CCTV revealed two males near the premises and blood belonging to McGilloway was found at the scene. Judge Neil Rafferty KC said that McGilloway had 'an appalling record' with 265 previous convictions 74 of them for burglaries. The judge said that McGilloway had issues in his childhood and had taken recourse in alcohol and drugs. He told the defendant that help was available but he would have to engage with the relevant authorities. He jailed McGilloway for two years with half of that in custody and half on supervision. A judge at Derry Crown Court has said that 'domestic visolence is a scourge on society' and warned that those who engage in it will be jailed. Judge Neil Rafferty KC made his remarks as he jailed Alex Crawford (25) from Kinsale Park in Derry for a series of domestic incidents that occurred on dates between October 1 2022 and November 15 2022. The court heard that police were on patrol in the Fountain area and were flagged down by a member of the public claiming that a man was trying to force his way into a house. Police spoke to the woman who said she had been in a relationship with the defendant and it had ended. She said she had told him she would leave his belongings outside the door but when she opened the door to do so he had forced his way in. The woman said that she tried to leave but Crawford prevented her doing so and closed the door on her arm. She also told police of a number of assaults by the defendant in one case he subjected her 'to some form of strangulation' and kneed her in the ribs. Judge Rafferty said that non fatal strangulation was a 'serious issue' but at this time it was not a distinct offence and all the defendant could be charged with was common assault which he said 'did not address the seriousness of the offending.' He sentenced Crawford to 12 months in prison with half of that to be served in custody and imposed a Restraining Order for a period of five years. 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. Windows on ARM is not new. Efforts began in 2012 with Windows RT, a version of Windows 8 for ARM. Over the years, significant developments were made, but none were of this scale where giants like Qualcomm, Microsoft, and other OEMs such as HP, Dell, ASUS, and more came together to create a comprehensive and competitive ARM-based Windows ecosystem. This collaboration aims to deliver high performance, energy efficiency, and seamless compatibility, striving to challenge the dominance of traditional x86 architecture and push the boundaries of what ARM processors can achieve in the Windows operating environment. For the uninitiated, ARM and x86 processors differ in their instruction sets. While the former uses the simpler RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Compute), the latter uses CISC (Complex Instruction Set Compute). ARMs simpler, power-efficient design originated from ACORN computers goal to create a CPU with plastic packaging, leading to the development of the first ARM processor, ARM1. Fun fact ARMs first name was ACORN RISC Machine but on 27 November 1990 ARM would be renamed as Advanced RISC Machine following the joint venture of Apple, ACORN and VLSI technologies. Nearly 16 years later, Apple would launch the first iPhone in 2007 and then 14 years later it would launch the M1 chip, revolutionising computing on Mac forever. Fast forward to four more years and we have the Snapdragon X Elite, a chip built on the same CPU architecture as the Apple M1 SoC. So, is the Snapdragon X Elite any good? And most importantly is it better than the current crop of X86 CPU chips from Intel and AMD that we have on the market today? Well, heres my answer. ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Specifications Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC 12 threads and 12 cores up to 3.8 GHz max clock speed Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno up to 4.6 TFLOPS Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X running at 8448MHz Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD Display: 15.6-inch 3K 120Hz OLED Weight: 1.42 kg Battery Size: 70Wh ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Design, Build Quality, Keyboard and I/O Review Although ASUS says that both their Intel-powered and Snapdragon-powered Vivobook S15s are the same in terms of build quality, but, I really feel that the Snapdragon X Elite-powered Vivobook S15 is built much better. Not only is its chassis more hardy the laptops display hinge is also sturdier. Since were comparing the ASUS Vivobook S15 with the Intel Core Ultra 7-powered Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro, Id like you to remember that the latter is at par or even better in terms of build quality. Its chassis feels more premium and its hinges movement is also more fluidic. Smooth, when you lift it and firm when you set it in any particular position. Back to the Vivobook S15 and in terms of keyboard, it is the same as its Intel-powered variant. But the touchpad on the Snapdragon X Elite version is different. It is smaller when compared to the Core Ultra 7 variant but its placement and clicks feel better in comparison. If youve used the ASUS ROG Strix G16 youd find the touchpad on the S15 X Elite fairly similar. In terms of I/O ports, both laptops offer essential ports like HDMI 2.1, USB Type-A, USB Type-C, a 3.5 mm jack, and an SD card slot. The Vivobook lacks Thunderbolt 4, offering USB 4 instead. Now, the Thunderbolt 4 is objectively better but the USB 4 also has similar functionalities. Moreover, the Vivobook X Elite has one more USB Type-A port as well. ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Display And Speakers Review The Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro displays and the ASUS Vivobook S15 differ notably in their SDR brightness. The Galaxy Book 4 Pro has an SDR brightness of 385 nits, while the Vivobook S15 offers a slightly higher SDR brightness of 400 nits. This marginal difference is hardly noticeable as youll find both screens plenty bright. Beyond SDR brightness, the displays of the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro and the ASUS Vivobook S15 differ in several key aspects. The Galaxy Book 4 Pro excels in colour gamut coverage, offering a broader sRGB coverage of 167.8% and DCI-P3 coverage of 118.8%, which makes it particularly well-suited for tasks that demand high colour accuracy and a wide colour range, such as photo and video editing. On the other hand, the Vivobook S15 covers approximately 133% of the sRGB gamut and 100% of the DCI-P3 colour space, providing excellent colour reproduction but slightly less extensive than the Galaxy Book 4 Pro. In terms of colour accuracy, both devices perform admirably, with the Galaxy Book 4 Pro achieving Delta E values of 1.4 for sRGB indicating very precise colour rendering. The Vivobook S15 maintains an average Delta E of around 1, which is slightly better. The Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro features a solid audio setup with 2.2 speakers, comprising two 5W woofers and two 2W tweeters, and includes Dolby Atmos support, delivering a loud and clear sound experience around 80.4 dB. However, it falls short of the high standards set by Apples MacBook speakers, making it less ideal for media consumption without additional audio support. In contrast, the ASUS Vivobook S15 with the Snapdragon X Elite variant also offers a decent audio experience. It features Harman Kardon-certified speakers with Smart Amp Technology, giving you a balanced and rich sound output suitable for everyday use and light media consumption. But still not up to the mark of an Apple MacBook. ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Battery Life And Efficiency The ASUS Vivobook S15 (Snapdragon X Elite) significantly outperforms the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro (Intel Core Ultra 7) in terms of battery life. The Vivobook S15 offers an impressive 810 minutes of battery life, compared to the Galaxy Book 4 Pros 570 minutes, providing an additional 240 minutes of usage. Both laptops offer adjustable power modes, but the Vivobook S15 stands out with its range from Whisper Mode at 20W to Full Speed Mode at 50W. This flexibility allows users to balance performance and battery efficiency effectively. In contrast, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro is capped at a maximum power of 28W; this information will become relevant once again in the performance section. But with that said, the ASUS Vivobook S15 wins in terms of battery life. ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Performance And Benchmarks One of the big claims of the Snapdragon X Elite chip is its identical performance on battery life and when plugged in. And after testing the chip thoroughly I can easily say that it is true but with some caveats and exceptions which neither Microsoft nor Qualcomm are telling you in detail. A lot of Windows applications, including games, are only able to work on the Snapdragon X Elite ARM CPU through an emulation layer called PRISM. Yes, you heard that right. And just like any other emulator, there is a performance loss. This performance loss isnt too big usually, but in some specific cases, it sticks out like a sore thumb. For instance, when plugged in, the X Elite scored 13968 points in the Geekbench 6 Multicore test but came down to 7312 when running on battery power. Even while running Cinebench R23, the X Elite suffers from some performance loss, scoring 8,870 in the multicore test when on battery instead of 13,492 when plugged in. But when an app is optimised specifically for ARM, X Elite-powered Vivobook S15 performs extremely well, even beating the Intel Core Ultra 7 as well. In Cinebench 2024, which has an ARM-optimized version, the Snapdragon X Elite scored 1,114 when plugged in and 1,049 when on battery. Although the Intel Core Ultra-powered Samsung Galaxy Book 4 scored lower, around 746 and 703 on power and on battery respectively, the performance difference in both these cases is very small. The ASUS Vivobook S15 stands out in both memory performance and latency compared to the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro and the 14-inch MacBook Pro M3 Max. The Vivobook S15 achieves a memory read speed of 116,600 MB/s, outperforming the Galaxy Book 4 Pros 81,489 MB/s by 43.1%. Although the Galaxy Book 4 Pro has a slight advantage in memory write speeds (73,543 MB/s vs. 64,391 MB/s), the Vivobook S15 excels overall. In terms of latency, the Vivobook S15 X Elite has the lowest latency at 9.7 ns, compared to the MacBook Pro M3 Maxs 18 ns and the Vivobook S15 (Intel)s 178.6 ns. This makes the Vivobook S15 (Snapdragon X Elite) the best choice for tasks requiring quick memory access and superior performance, outperforming the Galaxy Book 4 Pro and the MacBook Pro M3 Max. The ASUS Vivobook S15 significantly outperforms the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro in graphics performance. With its Qualcomm Adreno GPU, the Vivobook S15 scores 4207 in the 3d Marks TimeSpy benchmark and 8931 in FireStrike, compared to the Galaxy Book 4 Pros 1900 in TimeSpy and 6129 in FireStrike. These results show that the Vivobook S15 achieves more than double the performance in TimeSpy and substantially higher scores in FireStrike, thus proving that Qualcomm Adreno GPU still has some way to go. The same became even more apparent when I tried to run some gaming benchmarks at 720P low settings. In Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro slightly outperforms the Vivobook S15, achieving 45 FPS on power compared to 42 FPS on the Vivobook S15. On battery, the difference narrows with the Galaxy Book 4 Pro scoring 42 FPS and the Vivobook S15 at 41 FPS. In Borderlands 3, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro again leads significantly when on power, scoring 62 FPS compared to the Vivobook S15s 42 FPS. However, when on battery, the performance difference remains with the Galaxy Book 4 Pro maintaining 62 FPS, while the Vivobook S15 drops slightly to 41 FPS. For GTA 5, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro shows higher performance with 71 FPS on power compared to the Vivobook S15s 60 FPS. On battery, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro scores 69 FPS, slightly decreasing from its powered performance, while the Vivobook S15 remains steady at 60 FPS. In Civilization VI, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro excels with a remarkable 88.6 FPS on power, vastly outperforming the Vivobook S15s 27 FPS. On battery, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro scores 85 FPS, maintaining high performance, while the Vivobook S15 stays consistent at 27 FPS. As a result, in terms of gaming, the Snapdragon X Elite-powered ASUS Vivobook S15 falls behind the Intel Core Ultra 7-powered Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro in raw FPS numbers. ASUS Vivobook S15 Snapdragon X Elite Review: Conclusion So overall, I have multiple conclusions regarding the new X Elite chip. First, it is fast, but any OEM providing these laptops needs to offer a higher RAM variant considering the memory is unupgradable. Secondly, these chips provide a snappier experience, good battery life, and consistent performance regardless of whether they are plugged in or not. However, to maintain good performance in both cases, the app needs to be optimized for ARM. If the app is not optimized, youll see a small performance drop when plugged in and a more noticeable performance drop when on battery. Thirdly, app compatibility for basic apps is present, but for many others, support is lacking. For example, a lot of games are not yet supported, and if youre a developer using apps with native X86/X64 assembly code, you could face issues. However, the Intel Core Ultra 7 is not far behind in terms of performance and efficiency. It lags in battery life but has absolutely no app compatibility issues. Qualcomm, Microsoft, and other OEMs set out to create a MacBook killer, and they succeeded in making just that. This device is a MacBook killer only, a very specialized device for a specialized use case, which does not include gaming. Unlike the X86 laptops we have nowadays, this is not a Swiss knife, at least for now. 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. Amkor granted CHIPS Act incentives for Arizona plant Amkor Technology has signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms with the US Department of Commerce to receive proposed funding as part of the CHIPS and Science Act, according to the US semiconductor packaging and test services provider. The Biden-Harris Administration also announced the signing of the PMT, which would give Amkor up to US$400 million in proposed direct financing under the CHIPS and Science Act. This proposed funding would support Amkor's investment of approximately US$2 billion and 2,000 jobs in a greenfield project in Peoria, Arizona. Amkor in November 2023 disclosed plans to build its Arizona plant, which the OSAT claims will be the largest outsourced advanced packaging and test facility in the US. It will offer complete end-to-end advanced packaging for the world's most advanced semiconductors used in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, communications, and automotive device applications. Amkor will have access to US$200 million in proposed loans under the terms of the PMT, in addition to direct funding. Amkor also plans to claim the Department of the Treasury's Investment Tax Credit, which is expected to be up to 25% of qualified capital expenditures. Advanced packaging technology for US The Biden-Harris Administration stated that it will contribute to the resilience of key advanced packaging technologies, which will benefit US economic and national security by ensuring a dependable domestic advanced packaging ecosystem, supporting leading-edge clusters, and assisting in meeting the growing demand for AI chips. As a result, businesses such as TSMC, Apple, and GlobalFoundries, which power the world's most advanced technologies, will be able to package and test essential chips locally, allowing the entire chip manufacturing cycle to be completed in the US. As chip design approaches the technical limits of Moore's Law, advanced packaging is often viewed as the industry's next frontier of innovation due to its ability to drive greater power and performance. As a result of the planned CHIPS funding for Amkor's Arizona location, the US will significantly increase domestic capacity for this critical component of the semiconductor supply chain, strengthening the country's technology supremacy. "One of the fundamental goals of the CHIPS and Science Act is creating an advanced packaging ecosystem in the U.S. to ensure full start-to-finish chip production occurs domestically. Advanced packaging drives chip innovation at all levels, and because of President Biden's leadership, the U.S. will have a robust domestic footprint in this critical technology," said US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "The leading-edge chips that will be packaged right here in Arizona are foundational to technologies of the future that will define global economic and national security for decades to come." "The Biden-Harris Administration has committed to making the U.S. a world leader in advanced packaging, which is so critical to the future of the semiconductor industry because it allows us to pack more capability onto every chip," said Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and National Institute of Standards and Technology Director Laurie E. Locascio. "Investments in semiconductors will not succeed without investments in advanced packaging and with this proposed CHIPS funding, Amkor could play a crucial role in the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem." Amkor's US$2 billion advanced packaging fab project Amkor has secured approximately 55 acres with the intent to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing campus with more than 500,000 square feet of clean room space. The first phase of the manufacturing facility is targeted to be ready for production within three years, according to the company. Amkor and TSMC have been working closely to provide high volume, leading-edge technologies for advanced packaging and testing of semiconductors to support critical markets such as HPC, automotive, and communications, said the US-based OSAT. The companies' shared vision is to enable seamless technology alignment for customers across a global manufacturing network. "Amkor is proud to be the leading advanced packaging and test OSAT headquartered in the US, and today's announcement underscores our commitment to grow America's domestic semiconductor ecosystem," said Giel Rutten, Amkor's president and CEO. "Amkor's Arizona facility will enable us to support the growing semiconductor manufacturing communitywhile creating 2,000 good jobsand we look forward to providing our customers with domestic advanced packaging and test capabilities." When disclosing the fab project in end-2023, Amkor stated that the company collaborated closely with Apple on the strategic vision and initial manufacturing capability of the Peoria plant, which will package and test chips produced for Apple at the nearby TSMC fab. Apple will be its first and largest customer when the new facility opens. India roundup: India's latest fabless entrant iVP Semi targets domestic market with homegrown strategy The Indian finance ministry lauded development in the mobile phone manufacturing ecosystem thanks to Apple suppliers, reducing import taxes benefiting Apple. India's latest fabless entrant iVP Semi targets domestic market with homegrown strategy iVP Semi, a new Indian fabless chip startup, aims to capture the domestic market. Led by industry veteran Raja Manickam, the company focuses on renewable energy, electric vehicles, and automotive sectors. With a US$5 million investment, iVP Semi plans to establish design centers and testing facilities and expand operations. The company seeks to differentiate itself by targeting the Indian market and adopting a gradual product development strategy that mirrors Taiwan's successful semiconductor model. India reportedly to ease curbs on Chinese investments Reuters, citing unnamed sources, reported that New Delhi is considering relaxing restrictions on Chinese investment in specific sectors. India may allow Chinese companies to invest in areas where the country lacks expertise, such as solar panels and battery manufacturing. This move aims to boost domestic production. India reduces import taxes for smartphones, benefiting Apple In the union budget for fiscal 2025 (April 2024 to March 2025) announced on July 23, the Indian government reduced import taxes on mobile phones and certain components. The basic customs duty on imported mobiles, chargers, and assembled printed circuit boards has been lowered from 20% to 15%. The new customs duties will take effect on July 24. iPhone production surge signals growing role in global supply chain, citing India 2024 economic survey The Finance Ministry of India released its annual economic survey for 2024, stating that after a period of stagnation following the global financial crisis, India's participation in global value chains (GVCs) has surged. This growth is driven by incentives from initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the Districts as Export Hubs (DEH) program. Indkal targets US$35 million in sales for Acer-branded smartphones India-based EMS/ODM startup Indkal Technologies has signed a deal to design, manufacture, and sell smartphones under the Acer brand. Indkal plans to use an omnichannel strategy for its mid-to-high-end smartphones, targeting sales of INR3 billion (US$35.85 million). Weekly news roundup: Huawei sues MediaTek in China; YMTC head expects explosive chip demand in China These are the most-read DIGITIMES Asia stories in the week of July 22 July 26. Huawei sues MediaTek in China, signaling HiSilicon push Huawei has sued MediaTek in China for alleged 5G patent infringement. This move aims to boost Huawei's HiSilicon by weakening MediaTek and potentially influencing other phone brands. It might also serve as a warning shot to Qualcomm. Industry experts suggest the lawsuit might center around MediaTek's mid-range to low-end chips, with high-end chips relatively unaffected. MediaTek has released a statement indicating that the case has entered the judicial process and declined further comment. Huawei has not issued any public statement. YMTC head expects explosive chip demand in China amid US restrictions Chen Nanxiang, chairman of the China Semiconductor Industry Association (CSIA) and CEO of YMTC, stated on Chinese state television that China is exploring a new market-driven model for the semiconductor industry. This shift moves away from the previous reliance on universities and research academies. He predicted that the chip industry in China will experience explosive growth within the next three to five years, and attributed this surge to the ongoing US-China trade war and US sanctions. Intel Foundry faces hurdles in European expansion and performance struggles Intel has paused its planned investments in France and Italy due to economic challenges and losses in its foundry business. The company is now prioritizing its manufacturing projects in Ireland, Germany, and Poland. Even Intel's EUR30 billion facility in Germany faces delays, with production not expected to start before late 2028. This further highlights the chipmaker's challenges in its foundry business, which relies significantly on internal rather than external customers. NAND memory bit shipment growth in 2H24 to be boosted by iPhone 16 demand NAND Flash memory suppliers are gearing up for robust demand driven by AI smartphones in the third quarter. Some sources suggest that production lines may already be experiencing supply shortages. The adoption of Generative AI is creating a trend towards high-speed processing and high-capacity storage in high-end smartphones. Based on cost competitiveness, speculation suggests that Apple may introduce QLC NAND in its new iPhone 16 series of smartphones. Chinese semiconductor equipment could reach advanced levels in 5-10 years, says AMEC CEO Gerald Yin, CEO of China's leading semiconductor equipment maker AMEC, stated that although China is still a long way from meeting international standards in semiconductor equipment, it is entirely feasible for the country to achieve technologically advanced levels within the next five to ten years. The company aims to replace or offer competitive alternatives to international suppliers in China's semiconductor equipment market, the largest in the world. Chinese foundries favor domestic orders, limiting fab capacity for others In line with the semiconductor self-sufficiency campaign, Chinese foundries have been prioritizing supply for domestic chip vendors, particularly leading IC design houses who need substantial capacity support. Such IC design houses include major MCU vendors, including GigaDevice, Sino Wealth Electronic, Nations Technology, and Fudan Microelectronics. This has resulted in limited availability of fab capacity for others particularly Taiwan-based ones targeting the Chinese market. Apple's rumored foldable iPhone yields mixed news for Samsung Recent rumors suggest that Apple is conducting R&D for its first "foldable iPhone," with a potential release targeted for 2026. Industry sources believe that if Apple officially enters the foldable smartphone market, it could pose a significant challenge to the current market leader Samsung Electronics. However, this could also be an opportunity for Samsung, as Apple's entry could potentially expand the overall market, leading to increased sales even with a smaller market share. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe SOSAD Ireland has said that its Dundalk office has seen a 25% increase in client attendance, with the charity revealing that it reached 1,251 clients through its one-to-one counselling service in the first six months of this year. In a statement last Friday, SOSAD Ireland said that it is delighted to announce a substantial expansion in its counselling services over the first half of 2024, showcasing a notable increase in both the number of hours of support provided and the clients assisted. This impressive growth, it said, underscores the escalating demand for mental health services and highlights the significant impact of SOSAD Ireland's efforts in addressing this critical need. From January 1 to June 30, 2024, SOSAD Ireland delivered a remarkable 11,794 hours of free, one-to-one counselling. This achievement represents a 23% increase compared to the 9,620 hours provided during the same period in 2023 and a striking 48% rise from the 7,974 hours offered in the first half of 2022. This growth is a testament to the effectiveness and expansion of our services, driven by a committed team of volunteers and staff dedicated to supporting those in need, it added. Throughout the first half of 2024, SOSAD Ireland has reached 1,251 clients through its one-to-one counselling services, reflecting a 20.64% increase from the 1,037 clients served in the first half of 2023. SOSAD Ireland said that this growth in client numbers highlights the increasing recognition of the importance of mental health support and the efficacy of our services. Notably, these statistics do not include the additional support provided through group therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It continued, our client demographic is diverse, with 65% identifying as female, 34.45% as male, and 0.55% as non-binary or preferring not to disclose their gender. The age distribution of our clients reveals the wide-reaching impact of our services across different life stages: 4.17% are under 18, 27.35% are between 18 and 25, 24.78% are aged 26 to 35, 17.24% are between 36 and 45, 15.16% are between 46 and 55, and 11.31% are over 55. The range of issues addressed through our counselling services is extensive. Depression or low mood remains the most common concern, affecting 31% of our clients, followed by anxiety at 21%. Other significant issues include relationship difficulties (10%), stress (9%), bereavement (9%), and trauma (5%). Additionally, 31.8% of our clients have reported experiencing suicidal ideation, underscoring the critical need for early intervention and the essential role of SOSAD Ireland in providing timely support. Our helpline and messaging services also play a crucial role in our support network. In the first half of 2024, our staff dedicated 101 hours and 53 minutes to phone support through the helpline. Meanwhile, our messaging service volunteers contributed 393 hours online, offering remote active listening and suicide intervention support to those in need. Pointing to the work carried out by its volunteers, SOSAD Ireland said that the dedication of our 193 volunteer counsellors, both online and in person, has been instrumental in facilitating this growth. Their commitment has ensured that SOSAD Ireland can meet the increasing demand for mental health services across various locations. Notably, our offices have seen significant increases in client attendance: Cavan experienced a 29% rise, Drogheda saw a 15.8% increase, Dundalk had a 25% boost, Laois reported a 26% growth, and Navan achieved an impressive 33.74% increase in client numbers. It further added, SOSAD Irelands impact extends beyond national borders, with clients from 25 different counties in Ireland and 32 countries around the world, including substantial numbers from Eastern Europe, Africa, and Western Europe. This international reach reflects the global relevance and importance of our services. The approaching August bank holiday weekend is always high on the agenda for fire safety, water safety and road safety promotion officers. A joint cross-agency national promotion drive titled Amber Thursday has been established to raise awareness of the three safety elements ahead of this busy weekend. Bank Holiday weekends can be a busy period for firefighters with Joe Lumsden, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer with Louth County Council encouraging the public to be aware of the risks from fires. Everyone needs to be aware of how quickly a fire can spread and a small incident can escalate into a larger one if not managed safely. Im encouraging members of the public to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend but to bear in mind the potential of fire related incidents. Never light a barbeque or a campfire in parks, woodland areas or in areas close to vegetation or trees and be mindful not to discard any cigarette butts on the ground. Keep children away from fires and have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies. Road Safety Officer with Louth County Council, Adrian OSullivan, stressed the importance for road users to be cautious and courteous towards one another. Read Next: Garda killer Aaron Brady sentenced for attempt to persuade witness not to give evidence We have already seen a worrying year-on-year increase in the number of fatalities on our roads. Its imperative that motorists do not drive while under the influence of intoxicants such as alcohol or illegal drugs and that all passengers are wearing a seatbelt or appropriate seat restraint. Before setting off on a long journey, ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, plan your journey, drive within the posted speed limits, and take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue. Mark Kimmins, Water Safety Development Officer with Louth County Council reminds everyone to be aware of water safety and not to be lulled into a false sense of security. We have lifeguards on duty at Templetown, Port and Clogherhead beaches every day from 11am to 6pm until the end of August and for the first two weekends in September. If you are going into the water you should swim between the flags, within your depth, and never use inflatable toys that can quickly put users in danger of drowning. Lakes and rivers also pose dangers as they can contain hidden obstacles that can trap or make it more difficult to move around. The water is often much deeper and colder beneath the surface than expected and most water related tragedies in Ireland occur in inland waterways. Reservoirs are not appropriate for swimming due to the risk of deep and fast- flowing waters, changing water levels and uneven ground. Finally, Jet ski users should be sensitive to the presence of swimmers. added the Water Safety Development Officer. Amber Thursday is supported by Local Authorities, the Chief Fire Officers Association, and Water Safety Ireland. Further information can be found at amberthursday.ie. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) have signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Marshall University, West Virginia, USA. This MOU will lead to the development of collaborations in programme development, student exchange and research. Dr Diarmuid OCallaghan, President of DkIT, recently welcomed Dr Brian Hoey, Dean & Professor of Anthropology, The Honors College at Marshall University on to the Institutes campus. Dr Hoey is a regular visitor to Ireland and his daughter recently attended the DkIT Certificate in Archaeological Excavation & Recording delivered at Blackfriary Archaeology Field School in Trim, Co. Meath. Dr Patricia Moriarty, Head of School of Business and Humanities at DkIT welcomed the signing of this MOU and says she is delighted with the programme of collaborative work planned with The Honours College at Marshall University which will see programme collaboration begin in 2025. Dr Brian Hoey, Dean & Professor of Anthropology, The Honors College at Marshall University, said: "On behalf of Marshall University, we are thrilled to take the next step to formalise an exchange agreement with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT). Our collaboration marks a significant milestone in fostering international academic exchange and enriching the educational experiences for students of both institutions. Read Next: Shedding light on Dundalk's Freemasons "Our agreement with DkIT will not only align with the broader strategic goals of fostering global engagement for our undergraduate students but also contribute to beneficial development of our regions, in line with recent legislative initiatives announced in 2023 to strengthen ties between West Virginia and Ireland. "Our partnership, enhanced by the securing of a prestigious IDEAS Grant from the U.S. Department of State allows Marshall University to align our academic goals even more effectively for this transatlantic exchange and with DkIT's strategic vision and broader regional partnership with Maynooth University. "We look forward to the unique opportunities our collaboration will provide, fostering academic excellence and cultural understanding." Union Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar addressed the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting in Tokyo. Union Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar addressed the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting in Tokyo as he opened it in the presence of his counterparts and dignitaries from Australia, Japan and the US on Monday. The highlight of the address was the discussion on deepening their collaboration on economic, security and humanitarian issues in the Indo-Pacific region. There is much to talk about, agree on and plan ahead, he said. Referring to the current dynamics on the global front, Jaishankar said: These are not easy times, a major challenge is to ensure global economic growth while also derisking it. Supply chains are a particular focus for resilience as we push for transparent digital partnerships. In light of technological advancements, the EAM remarked: In a sense, we are in the midst of re-globalisation. It is only our collective endeavours that can proof the international systems against disruptions, man-made or natural. But we have significant additional responsibilities as well as political democracies, pluralistic societies, and market economies. Advocating for collective efforts for a peaceful and stable regional order, Jaishankar pointed to the need for a rule-based order. There is a key question of upholding a rules-based order. It is only our collaboration that can ensure that the Indo-Pacific remains free, remains open, stable, secure and prosperous, he said. This is the eighth meeting of the Quad foreign ministers. It follows the ministers' summit that took place in Hiroshima earlier this year, and a subsequent follow-up meeting in New York. The Quad is a diplomatic partnership between India, US, Australia, and Japan to enhance and support an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. A love story that began 70 years ago when Denis (Dennie) Higgins spotted Chrissie at Lennoxs chip shop was celebrated at Nemo Rangers in Cork at the weekend. Dennie and Chrissie Higgins celebrated 65 years of marriage with their six children, 14 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren on Saturday. A picture of Denis and Chrissie on their wedding day in 1959. When Dennie first saw Chrissie, he asked a neighbour if she would arrange for Chrissie to come to a Christmas panto with him. Chrissie met him at the panto and the rest is history. Dennie, who celebrated his 86th birthday back in May, was 16 when he first laid eyes on then-15-year-old Chrissie, who turns 85 this Christmas. Great-grandchildern of Denis and Chrissie Higgins. - Picture: David Creedon Speaking to The Echo about the wedding anniversary celebration, their daughter Denise Brady said: Theyre celebrating 65 years together on July 30 but we said we would celebrate on the weekend, with people coming from England. Denis and Chrissie Higgins from Pouladuff. Picture: David Creedon We had a caterer come into Nemo and the grandkids put together a playlist of all their favourite songs, including the Candy Store my dad always sings that to my mom. At every party, Candy Store is the song he sings to her because they met and married so young. Ms Brady said her dad sang his heart out with his only son David at the celebration, which she said was a lovely time spent with all the family. Last year, the family got together at Nemo Rangers to celebrate their dads 85th birthday. He loved it. We had all the old photographs too. My daughter got the projector screen and put all the photographs up and the tears were flowing. Hes a real gentle soul, she said. Denis and Chrissie Higgins from Pouladuff with their children, Sandra Donnellan, Assumpta Bridgeman, Denise Brady, David Higgins, Christine Dunton and Marian Robinson at their 65th wedding anniversary celebration. Picture: David Creedon One of Dennie and Chrissies six children, Denise said the family certainly populated with 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and another two on the way. The eldest daughter in the family returned from the UK with her husband and children, the youngest of whom is aged 22 months, for the special occasion. There are six of us kids in the family and all but one married either a Paul or a Paula, said Ms Brady. Everyone has to get their full title because of all the Pauls. She said about the importance of family: Its great to see all the grandkids and all the great-grandkids and one is only a month old so its lovely to have them all together. We are so blessed to have all our family and to have our parents 65 years married we are so lucky. A Cork-based customer services company has announced plans to hire more than 200 new staff across the country by early next year. Last year, ResultsCX, a Florida-based customer service solutions company, purchased Zevas Communications, a company which had been established more than 20 years ago and which employed 160 people in Cork and around the country. Following that acquisition, ResultsCX committed to doubling its workforce in Cork, and over the past year it has created approximately 150 new sales jobs in Irelands financial technology (fintech) sector. Now, the company, which has its Cork offices in the Cleve business park on Monahan Road, has announced that it intends to create more than 200 further jobs by early 2025. The jobs will be remotely based across Ireland. At the start of this year, ResultsCX, which employs more than 23,000 people worldwide and provides services to more than 75 Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 brands, announced a further expansion of its European operations when it acquired UK-based customer services company Huntswood. Marking the first anniversary of its arrival in Ireland, ResultsCX recently welcomed Irelands EU commissioner-designate and former finance minister Michael McGrath to its Cork offices. Speaking during his visit, Mr McGrath congratulated the company on its first year of operations in Ireland, which he said had been marked by substantial growth and further jobs opportunities in prospect. Its exciting to witness a global leader like ResultsCX recognise Irelands potential, not only for its highly qualified workforce but also for the abundant growth opportunities available, Mr McGrath said. The company is already making a very important economic contribution to this region, in turn helping strengthen our local communities. Siddharth Parashar, managing director, UK and Europe, at ResultsCX, said the company had been impressed by the skill and dedication of its Irish workforce. We extend our gratitude to the Irish government and people for their warm welcome, he said. Building on our success in creating approximately 150 digital sales roles, we now focus on expanding further by introducing multilingual positions in Spanish, German, and French. This diversity further enhances our ability to attract top talent and deliver exceptional customer service across industries. Rajesh Subramaniam, CEO and managing director of ResultsCX, said the European, Middle-Eastern and African (EMEA) was strategically important to the company. Having created over 3,000 jobs across the UK and Ireland, we are committed to driving rapid growth for leading multinational companies in Europe, Mr Subramaniam said. We are creating a centre of excellence for our fintech services where we foster innovation and growth of our clients. By leveraging our expertise across financial services, insurance, energy, and utilities in the EMEA region, we are dedicated to enhancing customer experiences. SC State Board of Trustees Chairman Douglas Gantt (left) joins SC State President Alexander Conyers in presenting Angelia Jackson with the award for 2024 Staff Employee of the Year. Note: This article is part of a series of profiles of SC State University staff members who go the extra mile. For over 25 years, Angelia Jackson has devoted her time to serving South Carolina State University. Her acclaimed work ethic has earned her several awards at the university, and she continues to help uphold the SC State Division of Institutional Advancement in any way she can. Jackson is the director of operations for the Division of Institutional Advancement. She assists the division in communicating with alumni and other constituents. She also helps with planning and hosting special events. Her division has experienced great success with fundraising and building and maintaining relationships. Jackson is from Santee, South Carolina, but has lived in Orangeburg for the past 40 years. She received her associate degree in business administration from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College and her bachelors degree in business administration from Limestone University. During her tenure at SC State, she has been named Division of Institutional Advancement Staff Employee of the Year in 2001, 2005 and 2016. This year, she was named Staff Employee of the Year for the entire university. Q: What motivates you to perform your best? Jackson: I know that God sees everything, so I have learned to work as if I am working for God. Q: Why did you choose SC State? Jackson: I was trying to get away from working very, very long hours. Well, that only lasted a few months as every workday at SC State has been full to the max and beyond. There is never a dull moment in Institutional Advancement. Q: What is your favorite spot on campus and why? Jackson: My favorite spot is my office on the third floor of Lowman Hall. I love the view and quietness. Q: What has been your most memorable moment at SC State and why? Jackson: In 2010, when my nephew Elijah Corley, an SC State student, was one of the leading actors in the first re-enactment of the Orangeburg Massacre. He and the others were awesome. That production was very touching and professional. Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies? Jackson: I love cruising, working in my yard, and spending time with family and high school classmates. Q: Do you have a motto and why? Jackson: I try to live by the Golden Rule: Treat others just as you want to be treated. Why? This is what the Bible tells us, and I want to be treated well by others. God already treats me very well and then some. A security video recording of a man who approached another man during an incident in Cork city while holding a hammer was shown at Cork District Court as the accused was jailed for six months. The video recording was shown to Judge Mary Dorgan after the accused man pleaded guilty to production of the hammer. The recording showed Alan Ahern, previously of Summerstown Road, Glasheen, Cork, getting out of a car and approaching another man. Judge Dorgan said the man who was approached appeared to be very brave during the incident. Defence solicitor, Eddie Burke, said that in fairness to the accused man the other man keeps walking towards the defendant Alan Ahern until he (Mr Ahern) gets into the car and leaves. Mr Burke said the accused was pleading guilty to the offence. Firstly and significantly, the DPP decided it was possession of a weapon rather that use of a weapon. The person he had the issue with does not seem to be too perturbed. Mr Ahern had been robbed by this man and that was why he got out of the car and approached him. He is 26 years old and from Kilaloe, County Clare. He had addiction issues, mainly alcohol. But he has the promise of work on his release from prison, Mr Burke said on behalf of Alan Ahern. Judge Dorgan imposed a six-month sentence on him arising out of the incident at Andersons Street from July 4 2022. A man was put on trial for raping his sleeping wife but he said it was a practice between them that one or other of them would initiate sexual intimacy when the other slept and that this was not unusual for them. The complainant said that this only extended to kissing and cuddling and not to sexual intimacy or intercourse. The case investigated by Detective Sergeant Kevin McCarthy and Detective Garda Linda Lyons went to trial before Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring and a jury of seven men and five women as the man pleaded not guilty to the charge of raping his wife. After deliberating on the evidence for more than ten hours, Ms Justice Ring told them that it was open to them to record a disagreement if they felt that no additional time would enable them to come to a verdict on which at least ten of them could agree. Shortly after this was imparted to them the jury returned to Court Six at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork to say, 10 hours and 23 minutes into their deliberations, that they had reached an impasse and wished to record a disagreement. What this jury was not told was that exactly the same outcome had been reached with a hung jury in the same case earlier this year and that in effect this was a re-trial. So the case now goes back to October 7 to allow time for the Director of Public Prosecutions to give further consideration of the matter. The accused is on bail. The complainant said that at the time of this disputed rape they were not sleeping with each other and furthermore she had told him that she was taking a sleeping tablet. The complainant testified that on the night of the disputed rape in September 2020 her husband, who was sleeping on the couch in the house, had been drinking from 5pm on what was the anniversary of a relative. The complainant had been away on holidays up to that day with her adult children. He basically wanted to know everything I did while (away), questioning me about friends I had made. He was implying were they more than friends which they were not. As the evening went on he was becoming more verbally aggressive, she said. She told the jury that she decided she would not leave him on his own because of the anniversary. She said she had one bottle of beer, at his insistence but that by midnight she told him she was going to bed. She said to him: The anniversary is over, you have my head wrecked, I am going to bed. Leave me the f*** alone. I am taking my sleeper. She explained that she always told someone in the family when she was taking a sleeping pill. And she said she was in her pyjamas and asleep in bed within 20 minutes. I recall waking up with a weight on my chest. I was groggy. It took some bit of time to realise what was happening (defendants Christian name) was having sex with me His penis was in my vagina. He had undressed me while I was asleep I pushed him off, the complainant testified. Eoin Reynolds Valerie French was "savagely slaughtered" and died in terror at the hands of her husband James Kilroy, who has shown no remorse and tried to avoid accountability for her murder, the victim's brother told the Central Criminal Court on Monday. Mr Justice Tony Hunt sentenced Kilroy on Monday afternoon to the mandatory term of life imprisonment. At his trial, Kilroy pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but a jury rejected that defence last week. Before sentence was passed on Monday, Ms French's brother David French told the court that the family is traumatised that Valerie's killer is a man they welcomed into their homes. Mr French identified his sister's "broken body" and saw the injuries where Kilroy strangled and stabbed her. "I can still see the horror on her face as she lay on the mortuary slab. Valerie was savagely slaughtered. She was not resting in peace." He added: "Her life was taken in the cruellest, most violent and terrifying way possible and her broken body lies in a grave in West Cork. That is the impact." Their mother, who was in "deep shock and could not come to terms with this evil act," died soon after Valerie's death. "I believe that for our mother the impact was a death sentence," Mr French said. He added: "My sisters and I have been consumed by this since the murder and there is no end in sight. We have lost someone who was a continual source of joy and loving consideration. "Crimes like this have a ripple effect on relationships, employment and health. Our children have been deeply traumatised by the sudden loss of their beloved Aunt Valerie and haunted by thoughts of the killer who we welcomed into our family and as a guest in our homes." Valerie's wide circle of friends, classmates, colleagues, relatives and neighbours have all been shocked, he said. Referring to Kilroy, Mr French said: "There is no forgetting, there is no forgiveness and there never will be." Valerie was not a "shrinking violet nor a dominant character", he said, and as an occupational therapist spent her work-life helping others. "She enabled, supported and gave space to her killer. Like most people, my sister Valerie simply wanted a marriage with a loving home in which to raise a family," he said. Since murdering his wife, Kilroy has "attempted to control the narrative, to minimise it completely and to avoid accountability. To date, no remorse in any form whatsoever has ever been shown to us. Without real remorse, there is no rehabilitation." Kilroy (51) murdered his wife at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, between June 13th and June 14th, 2019. Broke-Ass Stuart, whose real name is Stuart Schuffman, introduces a reading of his literary journal, The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco, at Jack Kerouac Alley in San Francisco. Stuart released the journal to counteract the doom loop narrative about San Francisco and tell positive stories from a variety of perspectives. Juliana Yamada/Special to the Chronicle Broke-Ass Stuart got somebody else to pay for publication of his first literary magazine, and he got a third party to pay for the beer. All he had to do, in his role as editor-in-cheap, was stand at the entrance of Jack Kerouac Alley and absorb the credit from a crowd that overflowed the alley onto the sidewalk of City Lights Books and onto Columbus Avenue. The city is full of great things, and this is part of it, he said as hundreds of people lined up Sunday afternoon for their copy of The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco and their little ticket to be redeemed for a pint of draft beer of their choice at Vesuvio Cafe next door. The Dreams I Dreamt wasnt run off at Kinkos and stapled together. It is a first-class collection glued between a heavy cardstock cover illustrated by Paul Madonna of All Over Coffee, with content co-edited by Oscar Villalon, the esteemed editor of Zyzzyva, the citys long-standing literary journal. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The book looks amazing, North Beach resident Robin Carr said as she thumbed through while waiting in line at the bar. Shed run into Stuart at a previous event and liked his chatter, she said. The doom loop is not the correct narrative, and hes trying to counter that with this book. The city is jumping. We see it every day. Copies of The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco were given away to hundreds of people at Jack Kerouac Alley. Juliana Yamada/Special to the Chronicle Stuart, who has built a small industry out of his ability to survive on the cheap in one of the worlds most expensive cities, had time for a side project because he is not running for mayor this time. The field is too crowded already, so he approached the Civic Joy Fund, a nonprofit arts and small business organization that is trying to drive economic recovery in the city. Civic Joy Fund has funded drag queens and muralists and musicians and street fairs, he said, replaying his pitch. I said, How about writers? That spiel was worth a $42,000 grant. The 19 contributors were not hard to entice, with a $300 cash stipend on offer, plus a free beer and a chance at the microphone to do a reading at the release party. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Author and sexologist Carol Queen reads from The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco at Jack Kerouac Alley. Juliana Yamada/Special to the Chronicle Writers do so much for no money that it is nice to get paid once in a while, said Baruch Porras-Hernandez, who splurged on a blue velour sport coat from Macys to draw attention to his reading from A Coyote Crosses Your Path on Your Way to the Friday Night Orgy. Other contributors include historian Gary Kamiya, the author of Cool Gray City of Love, who contributed an essay with the simpler title San Francisco is My Home, and Stuart Schuffman, the real name of Broke-Ass Stuart, who contributed Its Fogust in San Francisco. But it is still July, and the sun was shining on Jack Kerouac Alley on magazine release day after a foggy Saturday. There were more people than there were beer tickets to give away, and there were 300 of those. In all, 800 copies of the booklet were handed out to attendees. Attendees at the giveaway read the literary journal The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco at Jack Kerouac Alley. Juliana Yamada/Special to the Chronicle We are a promotional machine ourselves, said Stuart, who worked the giveaway table with project partner Alex Mak. Word of mouth is fire. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Co-editor Villalon described the 89-page volume as an entertaining and engaging cross section of the many voices we have in the Bay Area. Were lousy with great writers, and we wanted to show a slice of that richness with this publication. As the readings started, San Francisco event producer Kimber Neely circled around with a vintage Pentax K1000 camera loaded with color film. It was that kind of crowd and that kind of day. Leticia Hernandez-Linares prepares to read her portion of the literary journal The Dreams I Dreamt: Letters to San Francisco at Jack Kerouac Alley. Juliana Yamada/Special to the Chronicle I feel like the creative spirit of San Francisco is here today, she said. Its why I moved here in 2011. I want to see this kind of event happen again and again. Broke-Ass Stuart is all for that. He is already thinking The Dreams I Dreamt, Volume II. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a dream world, we do it twice a year, he said. Next time, we can do it faster and better. The Palo Alto Unified School District is running an ethnic studies pilot program in the fall, and parents, including Parent Alan Crystal, are looking for more information about the program content. Thien-An Truong/Special to the Chronicle Parents in Palo Alto are fuming about the school districts plans for an upcoming ethnic studies class, saying theyre worried the curriculum is too political and will push left-leaning political activism on impressionable high school students. The district denies the charge and says its working on an inclusive model for the class. The battle in Palo Alto reflects fights that have played out elsewhere in the Bay Area and are expected to escalate when the state mandate to teach ethnic studies is rolled out at all schools starting in the 2025-26 school year. Generally, ethnic studies is an interdisciplinary academic field focused on the experiences of racial minorities in the United States, with attention typically on Native Americans, African Americans, Latinos and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While educators have been given some instruction on how to teach ethnic studies, how schools choose to teach the classes can vary. The wide range of approaches has sparked controversy around the state, leaving some parents concerned about what their children are learning and whether the content promotes a specific political ideology. In Palo Alto, parents have received little information as to what materials and lesson plans the district will use, but they fear that students will walk away with an obsession over oppression and political struggles, with little understanding of commonalities between different ethnic groups. Palo Alto High School will teach a pilot ethnic studies course next school year in advance of a district-wide rollout in 2025-26. Thien-An Truong/Special to the Chronicle It would sure help if we as parents could see the curriculum, said Alan Crystal, a parent with an incoming senior in the Palo Alto school district. A lot of what we want is just to see whats being proposed, and to see the curriculum. A small group of incoming freshmen at Palo Alto Unified School District will take a pilot ethnic studies class this fall, a precursor to the mandatory course that will be offered the following year. Statewide, starting with the class of 2030, ethnic studies will be a graduation requirement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Many supporters of ethnic studies say that the class is important for helping students who identify as racial minorities learn about their culture, background and history, especially if those details have been left out of more traditional curricula. Supporters have also pointed to research that shows that ethnic studies courses can help boost student engagement and increase GPAs. Opponents of ethnic studies typically argue that the discipline is a form of indoctrination and can lead to political division within classrooms. The Palo Alto Parent Alliance, which garnered 1,400 signatures on a petition, says it supports ethnic studies but wants more transparency and opportunities for parental input. Parents are upset that district officials have refused to meet to discuss their concerns and have not released the full curriculum. The district contains two traditional high schools with around 3,000 students. Parents told the Chronicle that the district held three parent input sessions, but few questions were answered. Questions were later addressed in an FAQ on the districts website, though parents said they were still dissatisfied. In a letter circulated in May, the alliance accused the district of adopting a liberated ethnic studies curriculum focused on oppression and discrimination towards ethnic groups, which parents think will lead to politically divisive classroom environments. Instead, the parents are pushing for an inclusive ethnic studies model that has a greater focus on the roles and contributions of racial and ethnic groups while emphasizing commonality between people of various backgrounds. We arent against ethnic studies, said Sarith Honigstein, a member of the Palo Alto Parent Alliance, who supports an inclusive approach to the curriculum. Our issue is with a non-transparent rollout. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Associate Superintendent Guillermo Lopez told the Chronicle that the district is sticking with an inclusive teaching model. Palo Alto is the latest district caught up in the debate. Officials in San Mateo received hundreds of emails last year from parents saying that the districts ethnic studies curriculum was pushing a left-wing political agenda onto students. In the Mountain View Los Altos High School District, a nonprofit sued the district to release documents surrounding its ethnic studies curriculum. In some cases, specific lessons in ethnic studies classes have sparked outrage. At Menlo-Atherton, a teacher came under fire for her lesson on the Israel-Palestine conflict, with complaints that the presentation was an oversimplification and not balanced. The concerns in Palo Alto are part of a larger national debate on how to talk about race, identity and the United States history of discrimination toward ethnic and racial groups. In California, the Jewish Legislative Caucus is pushing a bill that aims to ensure that ethnic studies courses are free of antisemitism and prejudice. Other states have tried to control discussions about race and ethnicity in classrooms. Florida last year banned its schools from teaching an Advancement Placement African American Studies class. In Tennessee, the law restricts teachers from teaching certain topics related to race, including the idea that an individual can be inherently privileged due to their race. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In Palo Alto, the parent alliance pointed to the districts partnership with Berkeley History Social-Science Project to help build the pilot program as evidence that the district is building a liberated ethnic studies program, and cited lesson plans and texts that were previously advertised by the Berkeley project. Some specific examples the alliance listed in their letter to the district included a lesson plan curated by the Berkeley project about Black activism against police violence in the United States, as well as books recommended by the project like Pedagogy of the Oppressed. The district, however, says that the letter is not accurate and lists teaching materials that are not included in the course. A lot of that information was taken off the UC Berkeleys Social Sciences website and none of that really applies to our course, Lopez said. The pilot course is also building off an ethnic studies elective that has been offered in the past to ensure that the course meets the states requirements. The pilot will be taught in Gunn and Palo Alto high schools, with two teachers facilitating lessons for 20 students. By running this pilot course, Lopez hopes the district can figure out what works well in an ethnic studies course and what doesnt. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All we can do is continue to have conversations and train our staff to understand some of the dos and donts, Lopez said. Our goal is to be inclusive of all communities. Jason Muniz, director of the Berkeley History-Social Science Project, said that the projects job is not to tell teachers to teach one curriculum over another, but to help teachers tailor the class to their own district. Its not my role to encourage teachers to use any one framework over another one. It is my job to present what is available and let teachers decide, Muniz said, noting that he was impressed with the thought and care he saw the Palo Alto teachers putting toward the course. Jeff Duncan-Andrade, an associate professor of race and resistance studies at San Francisco State University argues that the best ethnic studies education is both liberatory and inclusive, explaining that the goal of ethnic studies is to help young people learn about their background and how to love themselves while also learning about the past and addressing modern-day problems. In Palo Alto, parents remain skeptical and want information beyond unit titles and guiding lesson questions for the course. I actually tried to engage with one of the teachers from one of the high schools whos running the program. I tried to explain what our concerns were, and I was told outright by her in an email that she cannot talk to me, said Linor Levav, a founding member of the alliance and a parent whose son is an incoming senior. You'll be able to instantly share hotspots and even video calls between your phone, tablet and Chromebook. Google is rolling out the two handy features first announced at I/O in May: Call casting and internet sharing. They're the first wave of the company's new "Cross-device services" that make it easier to hop between Android devices, 9to5Google reported. According to Google's help page, Call casting lets you switch video calls "from your device to another device with the same Google Account... for example, a video calling app may let you cast your call to another device and the app will show a list of your nearby devices that you can cast to." At the moment, this only works for Google Meet; to use it, you select the Cast button that looks exactly like the existing Cast/Chromecast icon). Google Internet sharing, meanwhile, lets you "automatically share hotspot access with your own devices," Google wrote. It works with Chromebooks and Android devices signed into your Google Account, provided you have Bluetooth and device location enabled. It doesn't work with Samsung devices, though, so Google suggests using the auto-hotspot feature instead. The new feature is currently on Android 11+ running Google Play services version 24.28.34. That's currently in beta, so we should see a wider rollout soon. Prince Philip's first cousin, Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark, has died, his family announced Sunday. He was 85. Prince Michael was pronounced dead at a hospital in Athens, Greece, GB News reported. An exact cause of death was not disclosed. The royal's funeral will be held in the Greek capital Thursday. Prince Michael was a renowned writer and historian under the name Michel De Gres and had written several bestselling books, including fictional biographies and novels in French. Prince Michael of Greece, Prince Philip's cousin, dies aged 85 as tributes pour inhttps://t.co/QncNOwKTMi GB News (@GBNEWS) July 28, 2024 RELATED : 8 Celebrities Who Shockingly Died Last Week He was the last remaining grandson of George I, who was king of Greece from 1863 until his assassination in 1913. Prince Philip, who was also a grandson of George I, died in April 2021 -- just weeks before his 100th birthday. Prince Michael also boasted a lineage to the House of Bourbon through his mother's side of the family. Prince Michael famously gave up his rights to the Greek throne to marry his wife, Marina Karella, the daughter of a common-born industrialist, in 1965. After tying the knot at the Royal Palace in Athens, he and the acclaimed painter and sculptor welcomed their daughters, Princess Alexandra of Greece and Princess Olga of Savoy-Aosta. Last year, Prince Michael told Fox News Digital that he had no regrets about renouncing his rights to the throne to marry the love of his life. "It was love at first sight -- it has never, ever changed," the royal said. "Now we are married 58 years ... Marina and my country Greece are the same." "Renouncing this title, not being a member of a ruling monarch in official functions and everything gave me a sense of freedom. I could choose my work and my profession, which I discovered was writing and history. It gave me the freedom to choose my way," he also said. Prince Michael was the only child of Prince Christopher and his second wife, Princess Francoise d'Oleans of France. He lost his father when he was just 1 after Prince Christopher died of an illness in 1940. Princess Francoise also passed away in 1953 when Prince Michael was 14. Tributes poured in for Prince Michael on X, formerly Twitter, following the news of his passing. "I am so desolate to know about the death of Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark. Michael was a notable historian and author, very respected by all who knew him," one X user wrote alongside a throwback photo of the royal. "May His Royal Highness rest in peace and may his family find strength." "Saddened to hear of the passing of Prince Michael of Greece, the cousin of the late Prince Philip," another wrote, "Sending condolences to his family and friends." The organizers of the 2024 Paris Olympics are responding to backlash following what fans called an "offensive" opening performance. Aside from enraged viewers, one of the largest sponsors of the Paris Olympics quickly pulled their advertising due to what they deem an "unacceptable mockery" of the Christian account of Jesus' 'Last Supper.' C-Spire the largest privately-held wireless provider in the USA declared that they would not stand by the mockery and are pulling out altogether. We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. C Spire will be pulling our advertising from the Olympics. C Spire (@CSpire) July 27, 2024 "We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. C Spire will be pulling our advertising from the Olympics," the company penned on Twitter, now X, early Saturday. The post hit over 9 million views and received a flood of positive responses. "Have never been more proud of a company. Thank you for representing the values of your customers," a fellow X user replied. "I will be contacting you very soon about my wireless service!" another commended. 'Deuce Bigalow' star Rob Schneider publicly boycotted the event, Donald Trump Jr. called the fiasco "satanic," Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker called the drag queen recreation "crazy," and countless fans expressed outrage across social media. RELATED: Pregnant Hailey Bieber Admits She's 'Not Super Close' With Her Family After Building 'Her Own' Tribe The artistic director of the opening ceremony, Thomas Jolly, claimed that the scene wasn't meant to be "subversive or shock people or mock people" in a statement at the International Olympic Committee's daily briefing Saturday. During an appearance on French news channel 'BFM-TV,' Jolly maintained that "The Last Supper" was "not my inspiration." "There is Dionysus who arrives on this table. He is there because he is the God of celebration connected to the gods of Olympus. The idea was to have a pagan celebration connected to the gods of Olympus. You will never find in me a desire to mock and denigrate anyone," he said, per 'USA Today.' On Sunday, Paris Olympics' spokesperson Anne Descamps apologized to viewers who were offended. RELATED: Billy Mays Honored With OxiClean At His Gravestone 15 Years After His Death "Clearly there was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group. On the contrary, I think [with] Thomas Jolly, we really did try to celebrate community tolerance. Looking at the result of the polls that we shared, we believe that this ambition was achieved. If people have taken any offense, we are, of course, really, really sorry," she stated per the news outlet. The 2024 Paris Olympics is set to last for 19 days of competition through August 11. AstraZeneca has begun the process of withdrawing the Covid-19 vaccine worldwide citing a "surplus of available updated vaccines," per 'The Guardian.' On May 7, the European Medicines Agency announced that Vaxzevria previously Covid-19 vaccine AstraZeneca, is no longer authorized for use, per the news outlet. The demand for the product declined after newer vaccines became available to target Covid-19 variants, leading to a halt in manufacturing and supply demand. RELATED: Pregnant Hailey Bieber Admits She's 'Not Super Close' With Her Family After Building 'Her Own' Tribe "According to independent estimates, over 6.5 million lives were saved in the first year of use alone and over 3bn doses were supplied globally," they said in a statement, per the news outlet. "Our efforts have been recognised by governments around the world and are widely regarded as being a critical component of ending the global pandemic. We will now work with regulators and our partners to align on a clear path forward to conclude this chapter and significant contribution to the Covid-19 pandemic." AstraZeneca admitted in court documents for the first time ever that the Covid vaccine can cause a rare and dangerous side effect. Per 'The Daily Telegraph,' the pharmaceutical company faced a class-action lawsuit in April over claims that the product caused serious injuries and even death. The news outlet reported the legal scandal which claims that the product causes a deadly condition called TTS, Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, causing people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count paved the way for a multi-million dollar payout. RELATED: Billy Mays Honored With OxiClean At His Gravestone 15 Years After His Death A legal document submitted to the High Court in February, AstraZeneca stated: "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known. Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence." Lawyers reportedly made the argument that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and claimed its efficacy has been "vastly overstated." The pharmaceutical company denies those claims. Ukraine on Monday urged the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross to investigate an attack on a prison in Russian-occupied Ukraine that killed dozens two years ago. The attack on the Olenivka facility in the eastern Donetsk region overnight on July 29 two years ago left at least 50 Ukrainian prisoners dead and wounded at least 130, Kyiv says. "Two years ago, Russians carried out a terrorist attack in Olenivka against Ukrainian POWs. I call on the UN and the ICRC to fulfil their mandate and investigate this war crime," Ukrainian rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said. Both sides blamed each other for the attack on the facility. The Russian embassy in London was criticised for a social media post that said the Ukrainian soldiers held at Olenivka "deserve a humiliating death". Many of the imprisoned servicemen were from the Azov battalion, which surrendered to Russian troops after their siege of the port city of Mariupol. The Ukrainian foreign ministry said on Monday that Russian officials had blocked independent investigators from accessing the site. "Russia must be held accountable for this. And it will be. There is no scenario in which the murderers will remain unpunished," President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Both Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other's militaries of carrying out war crimes, including abusing and killing prisoners, since the Kremlin ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his senior military leadership for the forcible transfer of civilians and attacks on civilian infrastructure. bur-jbr/cad/gil Justin Freese, 40, and Elliott Pacthill, 35, both of Forest Ranch, talk with Sutter County Sheriff deputies patrolling the evacuation order area during the Park Fire in Forest Ranch. Jungho Kim/Special to The Chronicle FOREST RANCH Lesli Kostiz, her husband and a handful of her neighbors are living on the edge of the 360,000-acre Park Fire refusing to leave their homes despite evacuation orders. The Forest Ranch residents live just up Stage Road from Highway 32, which firefighters have attempted to use as a barrier to keep the fire from spreading toward their community and Paradise, which was devastated by the Camp Fire in 2018. Northern California weather: Changes in store for Park Fire conditions this week Advertisement Article continues below this ad As of Sunday afternoon, the fire had destroyed at least 66 structures and threatened some 4,200 more, though the total tally of the blazes destructive force was likely to grow in the coming days since it takes time for areas to be rendered safe enough for damage assessments. The fire roared close to their homes on Saturday as helicopters and airplanes bombarded an area a few hundred yards away, just across the highway, with water and bright pink fire retardant. Lesli Kostiz, 67, checks fire notifications on the Watch Duty app on her phone while staying at at home even though her neighborhood is under an evacuation order due to the Park Fire in Forest Ranch. Jungho Kim/Special to The Chronicle It was so noisy, said Lesli, whos lived on the property for 50 years. The 747 and the Chinooks made a lot of noise. It was like a Twilight zone episode. Neighbor Justin Freese, an 8-year resident of Forest Ranch, said the aerial firefight was like an air show, he said. Everyone was here but the Blue Angels. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But neither the noise nor the danger of living so close to Californias largest wildfire of the year stirred the 10 or so residents to obey evacuation orders from Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea. First responders have said in past fires that hold-outs like Kostiz and Freese are not only endangering their lives, but also put at risk the lives of already-exhausted law enforcement and fire personnel. They can also hamper firefighting efforts. As much as we try to tell people its not safe, its not smart, that you can replace a house but you cant replace a life, people still dont listen and defy us, Cal Fire spokeswoman Lynne Tolmachoff told the Chronicle in 2020 after holdouts died in the North Complex Fire. Lesli Kostiz said she and her husband, Randy, evacuated their log-cabin residence when the Camp Fire raced up the Paradise ridge and neared their home. Even after the danger was gone, she said, they had to wait 10 days to return home. It was excruciating, she said of not being able to return home or know whether their home had survived. Elliott Pachill said hes spent his time behind the evacuation lines working with neighbor Justin Freese assisting evacuees by caring for their animals or homes, even fueling their generators to keep refrigerators working and their food from rotting. Jungho Kim/Special to The Chronicle Unwilling to confront such uncertainty again, the couple decided to stay, despite the pleas of public safety officials. People who live in zones where evacuation orders have been issued dont have to leave. But once they do, they cant return until the orders have been lifted. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When a sheriffs deputy pounded on their bedroom window Wednesday evening, the first day of the fire, Lesli said the deputy told her husband, Get the hell out. He refused. So did Lesli. I just froze, she said. I decided I didnt want to go. If flames jump Highway 32, she said, she and Randy plan to flee. But not until then. She said shes well aware of the risk and ready to deal with the consequences. She tells friends, even relatives, sometimes tearfully, that theyre staying possibly until its too late. A sign placed on the Kostizes' mailbox informs firefighters of a lack of water, no defensible space, and undetected residents. Jungho Kim/Special to The Chronicle Weve had a good life, she said. Weve done everything we wanted to do. If everything around me was on fire, so be it. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cal Fire spokesperson Rick Carhart said he didnt understand why people would stay in an evacuation zone when a fire has come within such a close distance to their home. It doesnt make sense, he said. Freese said his reason for staying is simple a rebellious spirit of resisting the demands of government authorities. They told me to leave and I dont like being told what to do, he said. They said go and I said no. Instead of abandoning their homes, some of those staying put have decided to help those whove fled. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lesli Kostiz said shes taking care of pets and livestock chickens, goats and horses for dozens of neighbors who evacuated. She gives some food and water and opens the gates for others, so they can escape if the flames come. On Saturday, she took care of animals for 15 friends, she said. On Sunday, she had 145 text messages asking for help. I wish I could help more, she said. As of Sunday afternoon, the fire had destroyed at least 66 structures and threatened some 4,200 more, though the total tally of the blazes destructive force was likely to grow in the coming days. Jungho Kim/Special to The Chronicle Down the street, Freese sat in front of his house with a friend Elliott Pachill, 35, who lives near the Forest Hill store. At first they sat on folding chairs then they dragged out a couch. Pachill said hes spent his time behind the evacuation lines working with Freese assisting evacuees by caring for their animals or homes, even fueling their generators to keep refrigerators working and their food from rotting. Pachill has also been posting information about the community and the flames on a private Facebook group, often letting people know the state of their homes. GRANVILLE, Ohio After relocating to central Ohio from Cincinnati, Maria Moss, was looking for some acreage close to Columbus, Ohio. Thats when she found a 6.5-acre farm in Granville. The house and property needed a lot of work, and Mosss only farm experience to that point came from volunteer opportunities, but she had a plan and was ready to work. Thats where shes been since 2016, raising British Guernsey dairy goats and providing raw goat milk through herd shares to nearly two dozen families. I just love animals and Ive always wanted to farm and have goats, Moss said. Its important to me that livestock products come from humanely raised livestock thats how theyre the most productive when theyre healthy and happy. Moss, who owns and operates Everday Acres in Granville, Ohio, talked about her business structure and welcomed visitors to her farm in Licking County on June 22 as part of the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association Sustainable Farm Tour and Workshop series. British Guernsey goats While trying to settle on a breed of goat Moss was introduced to the British Guernsey by a co-worker at OEFFA who was acquainted with a breeder in southeast Ohio. Theyre really beautiful and theyre this medium size, so they fit the bill, she said. And there were some around that I could go get that werent across the country. Moss currently has 30 goats, 10 of which are in milk. The rest are mostly those born last year and this year so theyre like heifers of a cow dairy farm, she said. British Guernseys, a Golden Guernsey-type goat native to the Channel Islands in the United Kingdom, are primarily used for milk production. The milk has a high fat and protein content, ideal for making cheese and yogurt. Herd shares Moss works for the organic certification agency Oregon Tilth. Her schedule provides the flexibility to work from home, allowing her to indulge in her passion for raising animals, particularly goats. But her goats need to earn their keep. Moss intended to produce and sell goat milk from the start. She wanted the goats to pay for themselves via their milk. In Ohio, it is illegal to sell or buy raw milk. However, owners or part owners of an animal or a herd can legally consume raw milk from their animals. A herd share allows individuals to purchase a percentage of the herd. Since they now own part of a herd, they can drink the milk. Frankly, if I had the money to set up a grade A or B dairy, then I would certainly do that, she said. But I dont so raw milk is kind of, the poor persons way into a dairy. Moss uses the goat milk herd share program to sustain her farm. She currently has 22 herd share owners who consistently pick up raw milk. They pick up milk corresponding to whatever their share size is. I will lose people occasionally, Moss said. Ive had people move, people whose kids decide they dont like it so they dont get it anymore, and that kind of stuff, which is fine but it seems when people leave theres always someone who joins to take their place. A full share is a gallon a week, a half share is a half gallon. She also offers quarter shares. Shareowners decide what day to pick up their milk without assistance from Moss. You pick up your milk from the milk room, theres a refrigerator in there so I dont need to do anything, she said. A jar has their name on it and they leave new clean jars for me to fill up for that next week. When extra milk is available Moss uses it for personal consumption. I have a neighbor who is really good at making cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt, she said. I end up giving her the extra milk and she shares what she makes with me. In the past, the herd produced milk from March through November. However, this year shes looking to increase production by introducing a new breeding program and through artificial insemination. I bred two groups, one in late fall and then one in January and February, Moss said. Im going to have kids again and Im trying to see if that will help me milk year-round. Cleanliness Since Moss keeps kids on the does, she only milks once daily. The kids are separated from the does at night and milked in the morning. In the milk room, an 8-by-10-foot shed with a milking machine, Moss follows her own set of protocols before and after milking. This includes using a sanitizing solution for the milk machine and the jars she fills. Everything is a single-time use, Moss said. I clean udders and do a pre- and post-dip with iodine, I wash my hands about 100 times a day I just try to keep things very clean. Moss used the nonprofit Family-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund, which connects producers who engage in direct marketing with attorneys to protect them from litigation, to write her herd share contract. Moss said none of the herd share owners at Everday Acres has expressed concerns over potential bird flu contamination, since the H5N1 virus was found to have spilled over into dairy cattle earlier this year, but shes aware of the situation. Im surprised that, I havent had any questions about it from my customers, she said. But its something to keep an eye on and I would understand if someone wanted to stop getting milk right now. Some consumers of raw goat milk tout the health benefits of the product. This isnt one of Mosss selling points, but she is willing to supply the milk to those who want to consume it. Some believe that its easier to digest than cow milk because of the size of the protein in the goat milk, Moss said. I dont have any medical training, I dont tell people goat milk is good for this, this and this I let people do their own research and decide that raw milk is something that they want to try and then they can find me as a source for it, she said. NI's Department of Agriculture (DAERA) has been criticised for their 'drastic' announcement that they will be moving solely to digital communication. Every farm business in Northern Ireland will need to set up their own government Gateway and email address to enable the transition. The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) said the decision was taken "without any consultation" and that it presented a "huge challenge" for older farmers. It comes as Northern Irish agriculture is currently undergoing generational changes with new policy being rolled out. Various schemes are now in place, including the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme. To date, farmers in the different zones have been notified about when to apply by letter, which the UFU said was 'very effective'. But the union's deputy president John McLenaghan said the transition to solely digital would be 'drastic', particularly for older farmers. He said: "It could create mental stress for the farmer and problems for the farm business if this method of communication with the department no longer exists. DAERA did not consult before making their decision to move solely to digital communications and we urge the Department to reconsider with immediate effect. According to the Agricultural Consultants Association, the decision will affect 6,000 farms who currently use agents to assist them in submitting SFP claims, Nitrate Derogation Submissions and Animal Movements on NIFAIS. This does not include businesses which receive digital assistance in their local DAERA Direct Offices. Rory Gormley, Agricultural Consultants Association secretary said: Farmers use agents for this work simply because some of them are too busy to find the time and some have no experience dealing with emails, online applications and digital forms. "The fact that DAERA have taken this decision without any consultation with any of the stakeholders is regrettable." A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 75-year-old farmer was shot dead in a Lancashire field. Thomas Olverson was found on Pinfold Lane in Scarisbrick at about 4:55pm on Thursday 25 July. Emergency services pronounced Mr Olverson dead at the scene. Lancashire Police confirmed that a 29-year-old man from Scarisbrick was in custody after a shotgun was found at the scene. The force added that the two men were 'known to each other', and police were not 'looking for anyone else in connection with this incident'. Det Ch Insp Andy Fallows said: "A man has very sadly lost his life as a result of this. "We have a dedicated team of officers working to establish what led to his death." Lancashire Police has appealed to the public for more information or dashcam footage. A Northern Irish farmer has died in a tragic agricultural incident, with investigations now underway into the cause of death. Richard Ruddell, 55, was killed on his farm near Lurgan, Co Armagh, on Friday night (26 July). The father-of-three was a well-known local farmer, according to reports. A police spokesperson said: Police received a report of the sudden death of a man aged in his 50s in the Ballynery North Road area of Lurgan on Friday evening, 26 July. Officers attended the scene alongside colleagues from other emergency services. The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed. The Health and Safety Executive added: HSE NI were informed of an incident on a farm in the Lurgan area on 26 July. Inspectors have attended the scene and are making further enquiries. It comes after a man was killed on his farm in Dromore, Co Tyrone earlier this month. In Northern Ireland alone, there were seven farm-related workplace fatalities in the period 2023/2024, newly released figures by HSE show. Across the UK as a whole, a total of 34 people lost their lives on farms over the past year. Yellow Wellies, which is behind the annual Farm Safety Week, said that for an industry central to strengthening food security and growing the economy, those who work in farming "are vulnerable". The charity said: "The fact is that there are more risks associated with farming than any other industry and while we cant eliminate them completely, we can, and have, to minimise them. "In our 2023 research, 88% of farmers in the UK believe that complacency always having it done that way is a major contributor to having a farm accident while 82% cite attitude as the major contributor." "For over a decade now, Farm Safety Week has been an important focus in the farming calendar and we are proud to manage and fund it." Tea industry prospers through diversified development in Lincang, SW Chinas Yunnan People's Daily Online) 10:21, July 29, 2024 Lincang city in southwest Chinas Yunnan Province is an important global center for the origin and cultivation of tea trees. Rich in tea tree resources, the high mountains and mists of the area make tea a pillar industry for rural revitalization in the region. In recent years, while deepening the supply-side structural reform of the tea industry, the city has been exploring digital transformation to allow the aroma of its teas to reach beyond the mountains and embark on a new path. Photo shows an ancient tea tree that is over 1,000 years old in Lincang city, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Lincang municipal committee) Shuangjiang Lahu, Wa, Bulang and Dai Autonomous County in Lincang is one of the top 100 counties in the tea sector in China. The county boasts 36,900 mu (2,460 hectares) of ancient tea trees that are over 100 years old. Its a crucial production area for famous Puer tea, a type of fermented tea. To promote better development of the tea sector, the county opened an account on the popular Chinese short-video platform Douyin in April 2023, according to Xu Yahe, executive head of the research institute for the coordinated development of tea culture, tea industry and tea technology in Shuangjiang county. As of July 5, 2024, 205 livestreams had been held via the account, receiving over 119,000 orders and generating sales of more than 41.74 million yuan ($5.76 million) since the first livestreaming session on Aug. 16 last year, said Zhou Qi, operator of the account and livestreamer. Behind the success is strict quality control and the introduction of professionals from institutions, including the research institute for the coordinated development of tea culture, tea industry and tea technology in Shuangjiang county, who carefully select tea products. Photo shows a core tea-producing area in Mangfei village, Yongde county, Lincang city, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province. (Peoples Daily Online/Cai Shujing) For many young people, drinking milk tea, or bubble tea, has become a normal habit. Fengqing county in Lincang, known as the worlds hometown of Dianhong tea (Yunnan black tea), began integrating traditional Dianhong tea with new-style tea beverages as early as 2010. To better utilize its Dianhong Tea brand, Fengqing established a Dianhong Tea Industry Alliance in 2021, implementing a five-step strategy to address issues in the industry. Members of the alliance have grown from 61 to 110. Fengqing has attracted major new-style tea beverage brands like Mixue and Shanghai-based milk tea chain Auntea Jenny to establish strategic partnerships. It is reported that in China, six out of every 10 cups of milk tea with black tea contain ingredients sourced from Fenqing. In 2023, the comprehensive output value of Fengqings tea leaves exceeded 7.7 billion yuan, with tea farmers per capita income reaching 6,742 yuan, up 11.65 percent year-on-year. The combination of tea and coffee has become a new trend. In the Linxiang district of Lincang city, a tea company has launched a series of drinks that blend the flavors of tea and coffee, which are popular among customers. Achieving coffee in one hand and tea in the other, whatever you want to drink, you can drink is Lincangs new aspiration. Photo shows a tea drink shop that offers drinks blending the flavors of tea and coffee in Linxiang district, Lincang city, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province. (Peoples Daily Online/Cai Shujing) (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) Brandon Negrete, 28, a Ventura County Fire Department hand crew member, pauses as he walks through the burning forest during a firing operation while fighting the Park Fire along Highway 32 near Forest Ranch (Butte County) on Sunday. Jungho Kim/Special to the Chronicle Tanker 103 drops retardant on the Park Fire near Lomo (Butte County) on Sunday. Jungho Kim/Special to the Chronicle CHICO After two days of cooler weather allowed firefighters to gain some control of the huge Park Fire near Chico, the 5,000 firefighters on the front lines of the blaze Monday were bracing for warmer days and more wind ahead that could spur the fires progress. The change in weather and increased sunshine were expected to further dry out the vegetation particularly the abundant crop of grasses that has fueled the 373,357-acre blaze, now the sixth-largest in California history. By Monday afternoon, fire officials said increased fire activity had challenged firefighters on the line a few times throughout the day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fire officials pushed significantly more resources at the blaze through the weekend to gain ground and keep it away from larger communities. Currently, the flames are most active in largely rural areas dotted with very small towns. The fire grew to about 560 square miles about 12 times the size of San Francisco despite fire crews making progress on surrounding the conflagration with containment lines. As of Monday evening, crews had contained about 14% of the fire, which is burning in Butte, Tehama, Shasta and Plumas counties and has forced evacuations across the region. The blaze had so far destroyed 165 homes and other buildings. The Park Fire started in Upper Bidwell Park in Chico on Wednesday afternoon, when authorities said witnesses saw a man pushing a burning car into a ravine, igniting nearby vegetation. The fire spread rapidly, heading north, through areas that hadnt burned in decades, according to Cal Fire officials. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police arrested a suspect Ronnie Stout, 42, of Chico and are continuing to investigate. He was charged Monday with felony arson and arson with aggravating factors. In addition, the charges include allegations of a third strike based on prior convictions for child molestation and assault with great bodily injury, the latter resulting in a sentence of 20 years in prison. Californias three strikes law imposes sentences of 25 years to life in prison for defendants convicted of a third serious or violent felony. Stout was scheduled to be arraigned Monday afternoon in Butte County Superior Court in Oroville, but the hearing was continued until Thursday, according to the county district attorneys office. Stout is being held without bail. At a news conference Monday, District Attorney Michael Ramsey said Stout has told authorities that the incident was an accident and that he was having car trouble, was stuck on some rocks and revving the vehicle when it caught fire. Witnesses said Stout was seen drinking alcohol at a different area of the park and driving recklessly prior to the fire, the district attorney added. The burning vehicle that allegedly started the fire, a 2007 Toyota Yaris, fell 60 feet and then set fire to the surrounding area, Ramsey said. The car belonged to Stouts mother, Ramsey told the Chronicle. Stout was arrested less than 12 hours after the fire started at the home in Bidwell Park he shares with his mother in Chico, officials said. At the time of his arrest, he was on probation for a 2020 DUI. Ramsey said his blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit when he was arrested. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A woman who said she is a friend of Stouts, Kara Bayma, attended the brief hearing Monday, during which Stout was appointed a public defender. Ive known him a few years as a really kind, decent man, Bayma told the Chronicle. He is a Christian man and I would be very surprised if this was something malicious or intentional. Bayma, a registered nurse in Chico, said she had visited Stout in jail since his arrest and he appeared distressed, deeply affected. He is concerned about the fire, the resulting effect, she added. Once we get more information, I think people will have a more logical or more balanced view. On the fire lines Monday, temperatures were expected to reach the upper 70s in the lower elevations of the fire and upper 80s in the valleys, with relative humidity dropping to the 20% range. Southwest wind gusts of up to 20 mph were expected at higher elevations in the evening, which could result in more rapid fire spread along the northern and eastern flank of the fire. Advertisement Article continues below this ad With the (atmospheric) instability, clear skies and a little bit more wind, I think were going to see even more intensity in fire than we saw (Sunday) afternoon, said U.S. Forest Service incident meteorologist Jeff Tonkin, who is advising Park Fire firefighting efforts. With the fire now in its sixth day, nerves were starting to fray as frustration and anger surfaced among resident worried about their homes, said officials, who urged calm and patience. Butte County, weve been through this before, said Sheriff Kory Honea, at a Monday afternoon public briefing, describing profanity-laden encounters between residents demanding access and law enforcement. We all need to be our best selves.I recognize the frustration. I understand the frustration. In Tehama County, Sheriff David Kain said the fire was having a significant impact, with the entire eastern portion of the county on fire. He urged evacuated residents to understand that areas thought to be safe have erupted into flames again and they arent taking any changes in terms of reopening areas. Im going to ask you to be very patient, Kain said at the briefing. This fire is extremely unstable and unpredictable. Just be patient and stand by. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Over the weekend, fire crews made progress establishing containment lines, though spot fires sparked by flying embers challenged those efforts. One of the most concerning was a 100-150-acre spot fire that crossed Highway 32 near Humboldt Road on Sunday afternoon. Crews worked overnight to surround it with bulldozer and hand-dug lines, officials said. They expected to continue working on it Monday as well. Firefighters were likely to see more spot fires as the winds and temperatures pick up, fire officials said. Theyre mostly cabins, camps, campgrounds, said Blanca Mercado, a Cal Fire spokesperson. Its nothing like some of the larger towns on the outskirts of the fire. Officials from Cal Fire and the Butte County Sheriffs Office removed evacuation warnings on the southeast side of the fire Monday morning, including the town of Paradise, and downgraded an order to a warning in one area north of Chico along Richardson Springs Road. I think things are moving in the right direction, Honea said. Forest Ranch remained under mandatory evacuation, as did Cohasset, both of which suffered losses of homes and other structures. Even as firefighters gained some ground on the blaze, Buddy Bloxham, a Cal Fire battalion chief, said the warmer weather means the fight is far from over. The fire is going to gain some energy out there on the line, he said. Well bend but wont break. A NASA rover has discovered "possible" signs of life on Mars. NASA has spotted signs of life on Mars The US space agency's Perseverance rover has spotted what has been described as an "arrowhead-shaped" rock with what resembled veins running through it. Scientists have determined that it featured chemical signatures and structures that were formed by microbial life billions of years ago. The rock measures 3.2 feet by two feet and has been named after the Grand Canyon waterfall Cheyava Falls. Ken Farley, a scientist on the Perseverance project, said: "Cheyava Falls is the most puzzling, complex, and potentially important rock yet investigated by Perseverance. "On the one hand, we have our first compelling evidence of organic material, distinctive colourful spots indicative of chemical reactions that microbial life could use as an energy source, and clear evidence that water - necessary for life - once passed through the rock. "On the other hand, we have been unable to determine exactly how the rock formed and to what extent nearby rocks may have heated Cheyava Falls and contributed to these features." The Perseverance team hopes to bring the Cheyava Falls sample back to Earth for further analysis. Anthony Mackie is "in love" with Rachael Ray. Anthony Mackie has selected his own personal squad of Avengers The 'Falcoln and the Winter Soldier' actor is obsessed with the 55-year-old TV chef and if he was allowed his own personal line-up of Avengers, she'd be at the top of his list. He told People magazine: "This might surprise you. Rachel Ray. I f****** love Rachael Ray. She can cook for everybody. She has her own pots, her own [seasoning] and she's cute. "She's like a little Dora the Explorer type thing, right? So she can hook it up. And I'm in love, hello? "So I can be like, 'I'm going to go fight for you girl. I'm going to run out, fight, come back. What's up with that pasta, though?' The 45-year-old star also chose his friend Jessica from Miami and Wade, his New Orleans-based barber, as well as former US president Barack Obama. He said of the latter: "I would recruit Obama because everybody like Obama we need a leader, he would tell us what to do. Then I would get the Incredible Hulk because he's Incredible Hulk so he'd beat everybody up. "So those are my Avengers. Very specific reasons." Anthony's MCU alter ego, Sam Wilson, is the new Captain America and the actor recently admitted he found it "so intimidating" shooting 'Captain America: Brave New World' alongside 80-year-old movie legend Harrison Ford, who is making his debut as Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross. Speaking to Inverse, Anthony recalled: The first day was so intimidating. I was so f***ing nervous I couldnt remember my lines. Hes Harrison f***ing Ford. There is this aura about him. But he dispels that really quickly because hes such a cool guy. Hes everything a movie star should be. He would say, Lets shoot this piece of s***. And everybody was like, Yeah, lets shoot this s***. We spent a good bit of time together. Ross and Cap have always had that relationship, where they were friends and they respected each other, but they always bumped heads. Thats their relationship in the storyline. Paul Mescal's mother Dearbhla is in remission two years after being diagnosed with bone marrow cancer. Paul Mescal's mum is recovering after her cancer battle The Hollywood actor's family was plunged into crisis in 2022 when Dearbhla, 55, was told she was battling multiple myeloma and needed to undergo treatment, but she's now in remission and doesn't have to undergo any more gruelling chemotherapy sessions. Paul's sister Nell gave an update on Dearbhla's health in an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper, explaining: "Shes currently in remission but the cancer that she has is never going to be gone, which is something that you have to learn to be OK with. But, for now, she doesnt have to do any more chemo. You have to feel grateful and I do." Dearbhla also gave an update on her condition in a candid post on Instagram, revealing she feels "lucky" and "excited" about the future. She wrote: "I AM IN REMISSION!!! I am blessed. Yes I will continue to take tablets, have blood tests but I am Dearbhla, just Dearbhla not Dearbhla with Cancer and I am lucky, joyous and feeling very, very excited about where my life will take me and oh the places I will go ... " She added: "Gratitude does not encompass all I feel for [the doctors and medical staff]. The love of my children, my husband, my family and dearest friends, the audience of you, the prayers of so many, the vibes sent out to the universe carried me through the hard times and lifted me when I truly felt done in. My cup runneth over and my heart will forever hold yours. Thank you now guys whats next ???" 'Normal People' star Paul previously admitted he had a panic attack on set when he found out his mother had been diagnosed with cancer. The 28-year-old actor was in the middle of shooting 'All of Us Strangers' with Andrew Scott, Claire Foy, and Jamie Bell and he struggled to cope with the news. Speaking to Esquire UK, he explained: "I think I kind of pushed it under the carpet for a bit when we found out. Then there was a bad old day when we were setting up to do a shot and I had a panic attack, and I havent had one of those in f****** years. "That was probably the biggest one Ive had, to be honest. Its embarrassing - not that I think they are embarrassing - but there was just something very public about it. "I think I was like, I just dont have the space to feel anything now, and Im probably feeling it in the work itself, but then theres only so much of that thats healthy. I think my body was like, No. Youve got to feel something here thats your own'." Slashs heart has been permanently fractured by the death of his stepdaughter. Slashs heart has been permanently fractured by the death of his stepdaughter The Guns N Roses guitarist, 59, was left devastated when Lucy-Bleu Knight passed away aged 25 on 19 July, and he has now paid tribute to her with an emotional post on Instagram. He said alongside a picture of Lucy-Bleu: My heart is permanently fractured. I will never ever stop missing you and remembering what a beacon of happiness, laughter, creativity and beauty you have always been. And still are. The brightest light in the lives of so many that loved you so much. I find solace in the hope that you are at peace now. I will love you eternally. Slash announced Lucy-Bleus death on July 22, after telling fans a day earlier he was pulling out of four shows on his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival tour due to unforeseen circumstances. According to Los Angeles Medical Examiner records obtained by In Touch, she died on 19 July. They have said the autopsy on Lucy-Bleu has been completed and the body is ready for release but the cause of death has been deferred pending additional testing, and an investigator has been assigned to the case. Slash, real name Saul Hudson, told fans Lucy-Bleu passed away peacefully in a statement posted on her Instagram Stories, in which he added: Lucy-Bleu Knight (December 6, 1998), beloved daughter of Meegan Hodges and Mark Knight, stepdaughter of Samantha Somers Knight and Slash, sister of Scarlet Knight, stepsister of London and Cash Hudson, passed away peacefully in Los Angeles, California, on July 19, 2024. Lucy-Bleu was an incredibly talented artist, a passionate dreamer, and a charming, lovable, sweet soul. The family asks for privacy at this time and requests that social media speculation be kept to a minimum as they grieve and process this devastating loss. Slash dated Lucy-Bleus mother Meegan Hodges, 55, in 1989 before they got together again in 2015. Meegan had her late daughter with her ex, Mark Knight and her cause of her death remains unknown. Slash resumed his tour on 28 July with a performance at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto and is set to continue with his gigs until the end of August with shows in cities including Boston, New York, Atlanta and more. Bangladesh recently decided to offer a seven-day demurrage waiver to the domestic readymade garments (RMG) sector to compensate for their economic losses arising out of the recent unrest. The decision followed a request from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) to waive off demurrage charges levied on clearance of imported goods of the sector stuck at Chittagong Port. Bangladesh recently decided to offer a seven-day demurrage waiver to the domestic readymade garments sector to compensate for their economic losses arising out of the recent unrest. The decision followed a request from the trade body BGMEA. The sector faced a loss of around Tk7,000 crore due to the anti-quota student movement last week, a minister said. State minister for shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury announced this after BGMEA representatives met him. Curfew and a suspension of internet services had led to digital customs facilities become non-functional. Nearly 37,000 containers are now pending at ports, BGMEA president SM Mannan Kochi was quoted as saying by domestic media outlets. From July 17, we failed to proceed with the export and import. The garment sector has faced a loss of around Tk7,000 crore due to this anti-quota student movement last week, he added. The sector lost around $160 million per day due to protests and accompanying violence. The situation also eroded foreign retailers confidence in Bangladesh as many garment suppliers have received 30-40 per cent fewer work orders than usual. The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) had also urged the government to waive the demurrage charges for delays in taking delivery and shipping goods from ports in the last few days. They had also demanded that the authorities should refrain from imposing any new charges in 15 days after normalcy returns to shipment and import clearance activities at the ports. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) The US freight market was business as usual in June and July, with stable conditions following a short-lived period of volatility around July 4, as capacity remained more than sufficient to service demand, according to Arrive Logistics. Thus, the market is firmly in equilibrium, with rates following normal seasonal patterns, it said in an insights piece. Demand continues to decline from May highs and capacity remains resilient despite challenging market conditions. The US freight market was business as usual in June and July, with stable conditions following a short-lived period of volatility around July 4, as capacity remained more than sufficient to service demand, according to Arrive Logistics. Demand continues to decline from May highs and capacity remains resilient despite challenging market conditions. Import forecasts still look strong, with over two million TEUs expected each month till October 2024the highest levels since 2022. Industrial production, consumer spending and other key economic indicators remain steady and have yet to significantly affect freight demand, the Austin, Texas-based company noted. The overall freight volume outlook remains positive. The National Retail Federation (NRF) still expects over two million TEUs monthly until November. US ports handled 2.08 million TEUs in May, an increase of 7.7 per cent year on year (YoY) and 3 per cent month on month. The NRFs forecast also calls for 4.43 million TEUs to move through US ports in July and August, which would be an 18.4-per cent YoY increase. Increased imports indicate that retailers are restocking inventories in anticipation of strong holiday consumer demand. While this data is encouraging, Arrive Logistics cautioned that retail orders are not always a true indicator of future retail spending. If retail executives order more, it could create inventory stockpiles similar to those of the post-COVID era, which would have a deflationary impact on the freight market, it noted. Descartes June import data deviated slightly from the NRFs projections, showing a 2-per cent decrease from May. However, volumes were still up by over 10 per cent YoY, indicating a strong import market. Chinese import volumes were up by 13.8 per cent YoY, which is unsurprising as retailers restock inventories and shippers work to import goods before tariffs increase starting in August. This trend might also explain why West Coast ports handled more volume than East and Gulf Coast ports for the first time since January 2024. The US freight capacity market continues to show resilience amid challenging conditions. Net revocations have slowed, and new market entrants have increased for the second consecutive quarter. This trend amid declining carrier exits has slowed the carrier attrition rate. Current conditions reflect the equilibrium market and may remain the same in the near term. Overall capacity levels remain elevated despite consistent net carrier population declines since late 2022, Arrive Logistics added. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) The recent curfew and internet blackout in Bangladesh due to a week of unrest arising out of protests against job quotas have significantly affected the domestic economy, with cumulative losses estimated to be over $10 billion, the Foreign Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industries (FICCI) has said. FICCI president Zaved Akhtar recently met Salman F Rahman, prime minister's adviser on private industry and investment, with business leaders and stressed the need to resume full mobile data connectivity, saying it is critical for every sector. The recent curfew and internet blackout in Bangladesh due to a week of student unrest have significantly hit the domestic economy, with cumulative losses estimated to be over $10 billion, the Foreign Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industries has said. FICCI stressed the need to resume full mobile data connectivity and faster release of goods from ports. "If we fail to prioritise the ease of doing business for our current investors, we will discourage potential investors from considering Bangladesh as a likely investment destination, especially when the investors are facing existential crises," he was quoted as saying by domestic media outlets. Bangladesh has over 2,800 garment factories engaged in direct exports, that experienced production disruptions due to the quota reform protests since mid-July. Ahammed Ali Babu, director, marketing and merchandising, Blue Planet Group, told Fibre2Fashion that their factory remained closed for 2 days. Tex Garment Zone, a major player in the apparel sector of Bangladesh, also had to suspend production due to the disruptions. Raihan Mahmud, the owner of the company, told F2F, Two of our European customers have already cancelled several new orders because they couldn't communicate due to a lack of internet. Zaved, who is chairman and managing director of Unilever Bangladesh Ltd, also demanded faster release of goods from ports and shipments outwards. Smoothening the authorised economic operator approval process will also help a lot in reducing port congestion and demurrage impact, FICCI added. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) David Hernandez covers public safety for the San Francisco Chronicle. Before joining the Chronicle in December 2023, he reported on crime, law enforcement and criminal justice for the San Diego Union-Tribune. A graduate of San Diego State University, he is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. He was born and raised in Santa Cruz. Get ready for an electrifying experience with Quotation Gang, the upcoming crime thriller thats set to hit theatres on August 30, 2024 ! Directed and written by Vivek Kumar Kannan, this film promises to take audiences on a thrilling journey through the landscapes of Kashmir, the energetic streets of Mumbai, and the colourful city of Chennai. Starring a dynamic cast including Jackie Shroff, Sunny Leone, Priyamani, and Sara Arjun, Quotation Gang revolves around a fearless female contract killer who dives deep into the dark world of crime syndicates in her quest for power. A pivotal incident turns her life upside down, leading to an intense narrative full of twists and turns. Sunny Leone has shared her excitement on Instagram, saying, I am so excited to announce that #QuotationGang is hitting the theatres on 30 August 2024 ! Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience!! For fans eager to get a glimpse of the action, the Tamil trailer is now available on YouTube. Check out the trailer below : Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 29, 2024) - Monarch Equity Capital Limited announced its strategic partnership with UBB Investment Bank Limited to set up a private fund of US$100 million. This initiative will support business expansion and drive innovative financial solutions. UBB Investment Bank Limited, regulated by the Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA), has been appointed as the principal advisor for the issuance of Monarch Equity Capital's private fund. Monarch Equity Capital Limited Forms Strategic Partnership with Labuan Investment Bank for US$100M Private Fund To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10539/218082_04868aeaa4e40b0c_002full.jpg Monarch Equity Capital Limited, a private capital firm, specializes in mergers and acquisitions, pre-IPO investments, and financial solutions. This partnership with UBB Investment Bank Limited, a financial institution known for its comprehensive investment banking services, is set to propel Monarch Equity Capital's capabilities to new heights. The raised capital will be strategically utilized to enhance Monarch Equity's business operations and facilitate growth opportunities for ASEAN enterprises. YM Tunku Prof Dato' PMgr Sr Dr Fauzi ibni Almarhum Tunku Seri Indera Setia Tunku Dato' Abdul Malek Al Haj, the Executive Chairman of Monarch Equity Capital Limited, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "Our collaboration with UBB Investment Bank Limited is a significant milestone in our journey to support and grow ASEAN enterprises. With UBB's expertise and our commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability, we are confident in achieving our fundraising goals and driving impactful growth." UBB Investment Bank Limited, with its strong track record in investment banking, asset management, and corporate advisory, brings invaluable expertise to this partnership. This strategic alliance aims to leverage UBB's comprehensive financial services and Monarch Equity's deep industry knowledge to create robust financial solutions for clients. Razlan Raghazli, CEO of UBB Investment Bank Limited, stated, "We are excited to partner with Monarch Equity Capital Limited in this strategic initiative. Our combined efforts will not only raise significant capital but also provide innovative financial solutions that benefit our clients and contribute to the region's economic growth." This partnership is designed to provide significant financial support for Monarch Equity Capital's ambitious growth plans. By pooling resources and expertise, both firms aim to offer innovative financial products and services that cater to the unique needs of businesses in the ASEAN region. This includes developing customized investment strategies, optimizing financial structures, and enhancing capital market access. The collaboration also focuses on promoting sustainable and responsible investment practices. Both Monarch Equity Capital and UBB Investment Bank Limited are committed to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their investment decisions, ensuring that their growth strategies align with global sustainability standards. About Monarch Equity Capital Limited Monarch Equity Capital Limited, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, is a private capital firm specializes in mergers and acquisitions, pre-IPO investments, and financial solutions. The company is committed to facilitating the growth and success of ASEAN enterprises on the global stage. About UBB Investment Bank Limited UBB Investment Bank Limited is a premier financial institution offering a wide range of investment banking services, including asset management, corporate finance, and advisory services. UBB is committed to providing innovative financial solutions and supporting the economic development of the region. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218082 SOURCE: Monarch Equity Capital Berhad Regulatory News: Following the decision of the partner CNRI to withdraw from Block 11B/12B, TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) also announces its withdrawal from this block, off the Southern coast of South Africa, in which its affiliate TotalEnergies EP South Africa holds a 45% interest. TotalEnergies entered into Block 11B/12B in 2013 and made two gas discoveries, Brulpadda and Luiperd, which could however not be turned into a commercial development as it appeared to be too challenging to economically develop and monetize these gas discoveries for the South African market. TotalEnergies has also decided to exit from offshore exploration Block 5/6/7 where TotalEnergies EP South Africa currently holds a 40% interest. About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global integrated energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to provide as many people as possible with energy that is more reliable, more affordable and more sustainable. Active in about 120 countries, TotalEnergies places sustainability at the heart of its strategy, its projects and its operations. About TotalEnergies in South Africa TotalEnergies has been present in South Africa since 1954, when it started distributing petroleum products. Today the company is a leading player Fuel Marketing Services, Lubricants Blending, Exploration Production and Renewables. For seventy years, TotalEnergies has been committed to the energy development of South Africa. Through a diverse portfolio, TotalEnergies boasts a network of 550 retail sites and LPG distribution nationwide for all domestic energy needs. TotalEnergies holds Exploration Rights together with its various joint venture partners, over Blocks Deep Water Orange Basin and Orange Basin Deep (west coast), Outeniqua South (south coast), and the recent entry in Block 3B/4B east of DWOB. TotalEnergies is also developing a 700MW portfolio of renewable energy projects in South Africa, including the 86MW Prieska solar plant operational since 2016. In 2023, TotalEnergies signed CPPAs with Sasol and Air Liquide for the supply of 260MW capacity (wind and solar) and launched the construction of a 216MW solar plant with 500MWh battery storage. @TotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies' financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240729570194/en/ Contacts: TotalEnergies Contacts Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com HONG KONG, July 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hong Kong's only and Asia's major international travel fair - ITE2025 comprises the 39th ITE (Leisure) and 20th ITE MICE, will next be held from 12-15 June 2025 at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Hall 1A-1E). The annual ITE in 2025, its 39th edition since launching and 5th physical edition since Covid-19, is a proven marketing and selling platform for reaching regional and local trade visitors, and premium FIT in Hong Kong and other cities of the Greater Bay Area. These major markets are recovering strongly! Setting new records, ITE2024 used 5 halls instead of 4 in 2023. Highly international, 87% of its 515 exhibitors are from outside and overseas, and 20 newly exhibiting countries and regions (2/3 from outside Asia)! Often Asia's third largest source market by outbound spending, Hong Kong residents made 72.2 million departures in 2023 recovering to 76.8% of pre-pandemic 2019; and 2.27 million (30% population) departures in five days of Easter Holiday in 2024. ITE2024 drew 7023 buyers & trade visitors (+18.4%) and 63027 public visitors (+12.7%). Particularly, 24.8% more or 3200 regional buyers and trade visitors, among them 61% from mainland China who include hosted trade delegations and 39% from other parts of Asia. Remarkably, ITE2024 managed attracting more regional trade and public visitors despite being hit repeatedly by rainstorm with the worst day saw three warning signals hoisted! Though mainly free flow, Business Matching held for sellers quick-dating buyers. Held in 4 days were the KOL Networking Session, industry forums, presentations, and some 100 travel trade and public seminars. In fact, regional trade visitors and public visitors recovered to 75.2% and 85.6% etc.! ITE public visitors are premium FIT who survey found 2/3 to spend more on travel in coming year, and many frequent travelers. Quoting exhibitors, a business daily reported "some cooling (of pent-up demand) this year but results remaining ideal"; and a Japan hotel chain which target B2B and B2C found "results at present deemed exceeding our expectation". Organized by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd, the annual ITE is strongly supported by Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China with Hong Kong Tourism Board etc. as Supporters. To boost recovery, raw space rental again remains the same as in 2019 and continues offering early payment discount. Full article: https://www.itehk.com/travelexpo/doc/press/ITE24-Closing-Jun24-en.pdf Expo's website: www.itehk.com or contact TKS via WhatsApp: +85269361271 Email: travel@tkshk.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2470539/AZ9_3190.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/strong-showing-of-regional-visitors-ite2025-forward-to-full-recovery-302208469.html The iconic LIBRE fragrance family from YSL Beauty welcomes a blazing new addition this season. Prepare for LIBRE FLOWERS & FLAMES, a captivating scent inspired by the resilient beauty of the desert lily and embodying a spirit of fearless femininity. PARIS, July 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- YSL Beauty is thrilled to announce the launch of LIBRE FLOWERS & FLAMES, a captivating new fragrance that embodies the brand's signature blend of edgy femininity and unrestrained passion. This latest addition to the iconic LIBRE collection draws inspiration from the desert lily, a flower celebrated for its resilience and ability to thrive in the most unforgiving landscapes. Master Perfumers Anne Flipo and Carlos Benaim have reimagined the LIBRE structure with a new floral sensuality, the hottest way. A unique desert lily accord blends with a sunkissed coco palm flower accord crafted exclusively for YSL Beauty. These warm and spicy floral accords add a captivating new dimension to the fragrance, intertwining with a radiant heart of tuberose and orange blossom absolute. The result is a scent as bold and fearless as the woman who wears it. Fronting the fragrance is YSL Beauty global ambassador Dua Lipa, an icon recognized for her own brand of bold femininity and unwavering self-expression. Set against the stark beauty of the Moroccan desert, the accompanying campaign captures the essence of blazing your own trail and embracing a spirit of fiery independence. The first campaign visual is revealed today, featuring Dua Lipa holding a desert lily against the backdrop of a fiery sunset. The full campaign video is set to be revealed on August 15th. LIBRE FLOWERS & FLAMES will be available in the US from July 30th onwards, both in store and online at yslbeautyus.com. ABOUT YSL BEAUTY YSL Beauty gives body and soul to a style. Completely liberated, it asserts itself as a collection of icons, with each creation driven by boldness, youth and the avant-garde. In the wake of Saint Laurent, who showcased the spirit of the times for nearly 40 years, YSL Beauty continues its unbridled love affair with women to create, shape and develop modernity. No compromise. Your own rules. Now. http://www.yslbeauty.com https://www.instagram.com/yslbeauty/ Media Contact: Laura STEFFANUT; laura.steffanut@loreal.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2470648/YSL_Beauty_Dua_Lipa.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2470076/YSL_Beauty.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/dua-lipa-fronts-new-ysl-beauty-libre-flowers--flames-campaign-302208516.html The global industry was valued at US$ 38.9 Bn in 2022 and is expected to register a CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2031. WILMINGTON, Del., July 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Biomanufacturing has the potential to manufacture many of the drugs we use today, particularly biologics and biosimilars. Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) play an essential role in manufacturing biologically active substances. They serve as the active core of various drugs, including the nearly 20,000 drugs approved by the FDA. Extensive use of biologically active substances in the development of innovative and effective pharmaceutical drugs is contributing to the global biotech API manufacturing services market size, which is expected to register a CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2031 to surpass US$ 73.0 Bn by 2031, according to Transparency Market Research (TMR), a leading global market research firm. Demand for biologics, biosimilars, and other biopharmaceuticals is growing at a rapid pace as they offer high efficacy and few side effects. Moreover, existing treatment archetypes are evolving and becoming more sophisticated all the time. Such a landscape requires a significant transformation in R&D, technology, and operations. Request a PDF Sample of this Report Now! https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=2336 Biotech API manufacturing services are playing a major role in this transformation by enabling the development of advanced pharmaceutical products and innovative treatment options. These products include complex proteins, enzymes, hormones, and other important biologically active substances. TMR's recent Biotech API Manufacturing Services MarketReport offers in-depth insights into the drivers and restraints of the market. It also highlights various opportunities and challenges in the industry and the post-COVID-19 market scenario. Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Key Insights North America dominated the market share in 2022 Asia Pacific is estimated to record rapid growth during the forecast period Based on the scale of operation, the large-scale segment accounted for the largest share in 2022 Global Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Trends Contract Manufacturing is the New Growth Stimulant Emerging economies in many regions have positioned themselves as the go-to hub for biotech API manufacturing. India and China offer potential growth opportunities for players operating in the market. International pharmaceutical companies are looking to reduce production costs by gaining access to these growing markets. They are engaged in technology transfer to emerging economies to benefit their R&D outsourcing. These initiatives bolstered the supply of various biopharmaceutical products and essential vaccines worldwide. A lucrative R&D outscoring sector incentivizes several regional companies to expand their API portfolio. These companies are supplying APIs to major U.S.-based companies involved in the manufacture of orphan drugs, addiction treatment, and obesity medications. In July 2024, Rusan Pharma Private Limited was granted Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) approval by the FDA. The approval for the company's API manufacturing facility in Gujarat, India, marks a critical step in its expansion into the North America API market. Fermentation Infrastructure Gaining Traction in Small-Molecule API Synthesis Small molecule APIs have broadened their use beyond drugs in medicines and are making their way to pesticides in farming. Their low molecular weight offers some distinct advantages as therapeutics. Most drugs manufactured from small molecule APIs can be administered orally and they can pass through cell membranes to reach intracellular targets. In novel cancer therapeutics, small molecules can be used as anticancer drugs that inhibit certain proteins in cancer cells. High prevalence of cancer has led to significant investment in biological and analytical advances in the biotech API manufacturing services market landscape. Biological and analytical advances enable modern fermentation processes to develop safe and effective next-generation drugs. These benefits have prompted stakeholders in the overall API manufacturing sector to provide high-quality fermentation manufacturing services. This is attracting drug manufacturers to leverage fermentation sites, thereby boosting the biotech API manufacturing services market expansion. In March 2024, Antheia, an API manufacturer, partnered with Olon Group, a developer and manufacturer of APIs for CDMO and generic markets, to leverage Olon's vast fermentation infrastructure to manufacture Antheia's early products. Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period? 2023-2031 Base Year? 2020-2022 Size in 2022 US$ 38.9 Bn Forecast (Value) in 2031 US$ 73 Bn Growth Rate (CAGR) 7.1 % No. of Pages 105 Pages Segments covered By Service Type, By Scale of Operations, By Region Unlock Growth Potential in Your Industry! Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=2336 Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Regional Insights The global market was valued at US$ 38.9 Bn in 2022. North America was the leading contributor to the market value in 2023. The region is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing market for biotech API manufacturing services. The region is benefitting from the availability of low-cost labor and international pharma companies seeking to reduce production costs. R&D Next-generation Diabetes Treatment Positioning North America at the Top Many individuals find it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle in our modern world. This has led to a high prevalence of lifestyle diseases, especially in North America and many developed economies. Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is predicted to increase dramatically in the region in the near future. To counteract the resulting impact on morbidity and mortality, stakeholders in the pharma sector in North America are developing next-generation diabetes treatment solutions. Synthetic medicine API manufacturing is likely to play a major role in North America's efforts toward effective diabetes drugs. This has prompted many companies, including Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, to boost their synthetic medicine API manufacturing capabilities. Eli Lilly, in May 2024, announced plans to invest an additional US$ 5.3 Bn to build a massive manufacturing complex, 30 miles away in Lebanon, Indiana. The expenditure is expected to boost API production for Indianapolis-based drugmaker's injected tirzepatide products Mounjaro, for type 2 diabetes, and Zepbound, for obesity. With this investment, Eli Lilly aims to catch up with the diabetes drug market leader Novo Nordisk and also expand its biotech API manufacturing services market share. Leading Players in Biotech API Manufacturing Services Industry Lonza Group Ltd., WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd., Boehringer Ingelheim Biopharmaceuticals GmbH (Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH), CordenPharma International, Sterling Pharma Solutions, AbbVie, Inc., Hikal Ltd., Almac Group, FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, Abzena Ltd., Regis Technologies, Inc., Rentschler Biopharma SE, and Catalent, Inc. are the prominent players in the market. Key Strategies by Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Players Leveraging Advancements in High-Potency API High prevalence of cancer worldwide has led to significant hustle in the field of oncology, creating a need for high-potency APIs. To better serve this growing need, Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs) in developing countries are leveraging recent advancements in technology related to High-Potency API (HPAPI) manufacturing to expand their capacity to serve the diverse needs of customers. For instance, in January 2023, Sai Life Sciences, an India-based CDMO, started a new HPAPI manufacturing facility at its Bidar Campus in the Karnataka state of India. With this facility, the company seeks to expand its expertise across HPAPI development and manufacturing. Biotech API Manufacturing Services Market Segmentation Service Type API Process Development & Manufacturing Analytical Testing & Quality Control Regulatory Support Scale-up & Commercial Manufacturing Scale of Operation Small-scale Mid-scale Large-scale Buy this Premium Research Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=2336